For generations, Lake Lorna Doone Park has been a jewel at the center of the neighborhoods west of downtown Orlando. Through the decades the park saw a flurry of activity, as families of color put down roots in the area and the community flourished. However, after decades of use with little modernization, the park no longer resembled the lively place of relaxation it had once been. 

That is until a longtime resident spoke up in a community meeting hosted by Lift Orlando in 2015 and asked, “But what about the park?”  

Tangia Smikle fondly remembered her days as a child growing up in the Lake Lorna Doone neighborhood, right across the street from the historic park at the north end of the stadium. And after returning to the area with a family of her own, Tangia was saddened to see the neglect the park had endured over the years.  

She believed the park could be restored to its former glory and Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, the stadium’s primary tenant, heard her passion and decided to put the power of the facility to work.

In 2019, after years of planning and fundraising with resident leaders, Florida Citrus Sports and the City of Orlando broke ground on a $9 million total reconstruction of the historic site. Lake Lorna Doone Park officially reopened during the summer of 2021 and now provides the assets necessary to inspire a healthy, active lifestyle for West Lakes families as well as all who call  Orlando home.

This newly renovated 12-acre site features a walking loop, fitness stations, a barrier-free playground, basketball courts, a splash pad, a putting experience, a 100-yard football field, a covered performance pavilion, an interactive arts garden, a customizable fountain centerpiece and more. 

Thanks to the persistence of the residents of West Lakes and the support of a host of community partners, Lake Lorna Doone Park is once again the pride of the community and a place for residents and families to play, unwind and enjoy a historic Orlando landmark.

Learn more about Lift Orlando’s work in The Communities of West Lakes and all of the exciting events and milestones happening last year in West Lakes by reading the 2021 Annual Report!