Tavares earns top honors for environmentalism and new street gateway

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.Anderso