TAVARES, Fla. — The city of Tavares received three honors through the 2026 America in Bloom National Awards program.
The city received the Environmental Initiatives Outstanding Achievement Award and the First Impressions: Gateways Award. City employee Traci Anderson also received the organization’s Cheerleader Award for her work supporting the program.
America in Bloom evaluates participating communities based on environmental initiatives, urban forestry, landscaped areas, heritage preservation, community involvement and overall appearance.
Program advisors recognized Tavares for its sustainability and watershed-protection efforts, including environmentally sustainable stormwater ponds, water meter replacements and community events focused on conservation.
The city’s new gateway at the western end of Main Street received the First Impressions award. Officials said the structure was designed to reflect Tavares’ identity as “America’s Seaplane City” while creating a distinctive entrance for visitors.
Anderson was recognized for helping bring America in Bloom to Tavares more than a decade ago and for expanding participation throughout Lake County.
Tavares became the first Lake County city to join the program and has participated since 2017. Anderson later helped establish the Lake County chapter of America in Bloom, which city officials said was the organization’s first countywide chapter in the nation.
Astatula, Eustis, Groveland, Leesburg and Mount Dora have also participated in the program.
Residents interested in the program can contact the Tavares Department of Public Works at 352-742-6221.
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