Lake Wales Skyline Getting Artistic Upgrades

A bit of color and history will soon be added to the skyline of Lake Wales as new graphic murals designed to reflect the city's heritage gradually replace block lettering on all four city water towers.

City Utility Operations Manager Holly Britt, who is overseeing the project, says improving the water towers will better "show the character of our city."

Courtesy City of Lake Wales

A tribute to the "City in a Garden" efforts of Edward Bok and Frederick Law Olmsted, the new logo on the city's Market Street water tower will be visible from the downtown area.

The water tower adjacent to the Eagle Ridge Mall has already been painted with artwork recognizing the Lake Wales High School Highlanders. The same theme will decorate the city's tower standing next to the school, located atop the hill along Burns Avenue on the city's near-north side, when it is repainted in 2025 or 2026.

A different theme, recognizing the unique history of Lake Wales as "A City in a Garden" will decorate the Market Street water tower, located near the downtown historic district. That tower is set to be painted in September.

The artwork reflecting the city's initiative to recognize and recreate the intention of the 1920's streetscapes created by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead Jr., and the city's founding town planners.

The city's remaining water tower, located near the city's soccer complex on Hunt Brothers Road, will feature artwork that reflects various sports activities. That location is also planned to host a new baseball complex in the future.

According to city staff, Lake Wales has added a water tower every 15 to 20 years, bringing the total water tower count to four, which is a testimony to the city's growth over the last half century.