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Orlando Health and Watson Clinic Collaborate to Expand Lakeland's Trail Network
New Holloway Family Trail extension connects Bartow to Lakeland, promoting active lifestyles and preventative healthcare.
Mar. 23, 2026 at 5:08am
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Lakeland, Florida, recently celebrated the completion of a 2.5-mile extension to the Fort Fraser Trail, a project made possible through a collaborative effort between Polk County, the City of Lakeland, and Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital. This new Holloway Family Trail expansion represents a growing trend of healthcare organizations investing in preventative wellness infrastructure to create 'health-integrated' communities.
Why it matters
The Holloway Family Trail exemplifies a broader movement toward designing environments that promote physical activity and overall well-being. This approach is gaining traction as healthcare providers recognize the long-term benefits of preventative care, including increased property values, tourism revenue, and reduced risk of chronic health conditions.
The details
The trail features amenities like tree canopies, pastures, picnic shelters, rest areas, and trestle bridges, creating an appealing and accessible space for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The expansion now connects Bartow to Lakeland, providing a valuable transportation alternative and recreational resource for the community.
- The Holloway Family Trail extension was recently completed.
- Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital is scheduled to open in June 2026.
The players
Polk County
A local government entity that collaborated on the Holloway Family Trail project.
City of Lakeland
A local government entity that collaborated on the Holloway Family Trail project.
Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital
A healthcare organization that donated the land for the Holloway Family Trail and is opening a new hospital in the area.
Dr. Mark Mines
The chief medical officer at Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital.
Watson Clinic
A healthcare provider that has served the Lakeland area for over 84 years and is collaborating with Orlando Health.
What they’re saying
“Even a 30-minute daily brisk walk can significantly lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and aid in weight loss. These improvements are crucial for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of heart attacks.”
— Dr. Mark Mines, Chief Medical Officer, Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital
What’s next
The new Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital is scheduled to open in June 2026, further integrating healthcare services with the Holloway Family Trail and promoting a healthy lifestyle for the community.
The takeaway
The Holloway Family Trail and the Orlando Health/Watson Clinic partnership demonstrate a growing trend of healthcare organizations collaborating with local governments to create health-promoting infrastructure, which can yield both economic and public health benefits for the community.
