Sebring 8

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Sebring, Florida, fondly known as “The City on the Circle,” was founded in 1912 by Ohio industrialist George Sebring. This visionary pioneer designed a unique circular plan as the focal point for the entire lakeside community. The city’s layout was inspired by the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis, with all roads radiating from the center. This distinctive design remains largely intact today, contributing to Sebring’s charm and historical significance.

The city was chartered by the state of Florida in 1913 and selected as the county seat of Highlands County when it was created in 1921. During the1920s, Sebring experienced rapid growth, with its population nearly quadrupling. This boom period saw significant development, including the construction of the Harder Hall resort complex.

However, the late 1920s brought challenges, including fraudulent land sales and economic difficulties following the 1929 stock market crash. The area’s economy received a boost from the development of Highlands Hammock State Park and the establishment of Hendricks Field by the U.S. Army Air Force, which later became the Sebring Regional Airport.

Geography and Climate

Sebring is located in northwestern Highlands County at coordinates 27°29′44″N 81°26′40″W. The city covers a total area of 16.0 square miles (41.5 km²), of which 10.0 square miles (25.8 km²) is land and 6.1 square miles (15.7 km²) is water, comprising 37.8% of the total area.

The city’s geography is dominated by Lake Jackson, which covers 9,212 acres (37 km²). Two smaller lakes, Dinner Lake and Little Lake Jackson, are also within the city limits. Sebring lies near the southern end of the Lake Wales Ridge, a chain of ancient islands that serves as a habitat for many rare plants and animals.

Sebring enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Unlike many places with similar climate classifications, Sebring’s rainfall is distinctly seasonal, with approximately 57% of the total rainfall occurring in the June-September summer period. More articles.

Demographics

As of 2022, Sebring’s population was estimated at 11,379, showing growth from 10,729 in the 2020 census. The broader Sebring metropolitan area had a population estimate of 105,618 in 2022. This significant difference between the city proper and the metropolitan area is due to the relatively small size of the annexed city area, with most of the landmass west of Lake Jackson being in unincorporated Highlands County.

Sebring’s community is diverse, reflecting the broader demographics of central Florida. The city attracts retirees, families, and young professionals, creating a vibrant mix of age groups and backgrounds.

Economy

Sebring’s economy is diverse, with strong roots in agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare. The city is part of Highlands County, which consistently ranks as one of Florida’s top counties for cattle production and is among the top five for citrus production.

Key economic highlights include:

  1. Agriculture: Highlands County is a major producer of cattle and citrus, with Lake Placid being the “Caladium Capital of the World.”
  2. Manufacturing: The area hosts significant manufacturing operations, including Howard Fertilizer & Chemical, one of Florida’s top fertilizer producers.
  3. Distribution and Services: Agero, a leading provider of roadside assistance and other automotive services, operates one of its five national call centers in Sebring, employing 500 individuals.
  4. Healthcare: The county boasts two quality hospitals with networks of over 250 physicians, contributing significantly to the local economy and quality of life.

The city’s economic development efforts focus on attracting diverse industries while supporting existing businesses. The Sebring Regional Airport and Commerce Park offer facilities for businesses, including an industrial rail spur, onsite utilities, and broadband access.

Attractions

Sebring offers a wealth of attractions for residents and visitors alike:

  1. Sebring International Raceway: Home to the famous 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the oldest sports car races in North America.
  2. Downtown Historic District: The circular downtown area, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features a blend of shops, restaurants, and professional businesses.
  3. Lake Jackson: The centerpiece of the city, offering natural white sand beaches and opportunities for boating and swimming.
  4. Highlands Hammock State Park: One of Florida’s oldest state parks, providing a glimpse into the state’s natural beauty and offering various recreational activities.
  5. Cultural Center: Includes the public library, Sebring Historical Society, Highlands Art League and Museum, and Highlands Lakeside Theatre.
  6. Golf Courses: The area boasts 14 golf courses, catering to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
  7. Lake Placid Murals: The nearby town of Lake Placid is famous for its vibrant outdoor murals depicting local history and culture.

Events

Sebring hosts numerous annual events that attract visitors from across the region:

  1. 12 Hours of Sebring: Held annually in March, this endurance sports car race is a cornerstone event for the city.
  2. Sebring Soda Festival: Known as “Florida’s Fizziest Festival,” this April event celebrates craft sodas with over 200 varieties to sample.
  3. Sebring Thunder: An October event featuring classic cars and live music.
  4. Caladium Festival: Held in nearby Lake Placid in July, this festival celebrates the area’s status as the “Caladium Capital of the World.”
  5. Highlands County Fair: An annual event showcasing local agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit.
  6. Christmas Parade and Light Up Sebring: A festive celebration marking the holiday season.
  7. Pro Watercross Tour: A May event featuring exciting watercross racing and freestyle performances on Lake Jackson.

Future Developments

Sebring is actively working on several initiatives to enhance its appeal and economic prospects:

  1. Downtown Revitalization: Ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the historic downtown area, balancing preservation with modern amenities.
  2. Education and Workforce Development: South Florida State College is expanding its programs, including the “Re-Engineering Our Future” initiative, which offers new degree programs in engineering technology, mechatronics, and biomedical science to support local industries.
  3. Tourism Enhancement: The city is focusing on promoting its natural assets, including its lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities, to attract more visitors.
  4. Infrastructure Improvements: Continued investment in transportation and utilities to support growth and attract new businesses.
  5. Sustainable Development: Efforts to balance economic growth with environmental preservation, particularly focusing on the unique ecosystems of the Lake Wales Ridge.

Sebring, Florida, stands as a unique blend of historical charm and modern development. Its circular design, rich history, diverse economy, and abundance of natural attractions make it a distinctive destination in central Florida. As the city moves forward, it aims to preserve its heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and development, ensuring a bright future for residents and visitors alike.

 

POI #1 – Sebring Airport Authority, 128 Authority Ln, Sebring, FL 33870

 

POI #2 – Sebring International Raceway, 113 Midway Dr, Sebring, FL 33870

 

POI #3 – Military Sea Services Museum, 1402 Roseland Ave, Sebring, FL 33870

 

Learn more about Sebring, Florida.