If you’ve visited Lakeland’s Lake Crago Outdoor Recreational Complex lately, it may appear rusted and rundown. Lakeland officials beg to differ.
“It’s a rustic patina,” Bob Donahay, the city’s director of parks, recreation and cultural arts said.
The large swaths of reddish-brown discoloration are clearly visible from the parking lot to the center’s walking paths and metal facade. It’s rust caused by the complex’s irrigation system and water that’s gradually built up since the center opened in September 2020, Donahay said.
Once considered an “issue,” Donahay said it’s been left in place to intentionally add character to the walkways and buildings.
“Some people like it, it looks good,” he said. “It gives it that outdoor feel. It’s done really well. People love the look and feel of it.”
While the rust offers splashes of reddish-brown color to walkways and patios, it’s also wearing away at metal structural elements, including pathway lights, light poles, sewer grates and a fire hydrant.
The first phase of Lake Crago park, which included the 12,000-square-foot recreational building, cost approximately $7 million to build. It was opened to the public in September 2020.
The facility offers several indoor rooms for rent, including a banquet room, and outdoor space available for private rental that Donahay said is in high demand. Notice of several upcoming February closures for private events were publicly posted on Feb. 5.
This article originally appeared on The Ledger: A rusty mess or rustic charm? Lakeland likes the ‘look’ at Lake Crago
Reporting by Sara-Megan Walsh, Lakeland Ledger / The Ledger
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
