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Current Projects
BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY, ONE PROJECT AT A TIME.
The City of Panama City CRA is dedicated to transforming neighborhoods! We work to eliminate blight, stimulate economic growth, and create vibrant places for residents to live, work, play and thrive.
DOWNTOWN DISTRICT PROJECTS
DOWNTOWN NORTH DISTRICT PROJECTS
Project Overview
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Panama City have been acquiring land over the past decade to revitalize the entrance to the historic Glenwood community. This effort aligns with years of strategic planning, shaped by strong community input, aimed at revitalizing the area. While progress has been made, several parcels remain privately owned, hindering development.
To accelerate progress, the CRA has partnered with Retail Strategies, an economic development consultant, to attract commercial interest, with a focus on securing a grocery store as a key tenant. The project aims to create a mixed-use commercial and residential area, stimulating economic growth and revitalizing the Glenwood community.
Project Features
- Key commercial developments such as a grocery store, restaurants and/or other service-oriented businesses.
- Mixed use development to further stimulate economic growth and provide affordable multi-family housing
Project Details
- CRA District: Downtown North District
- Project Cost: $460,000
- CRA Contribution: $460,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY2024, 2025, 2026 Downtown North District Budgets
Project Design Plans and Concepts:
Project Dates
- Contract with Retail Strategies 2024 - 2026.
- Project is anticipated to be complete by October 1, 2026.
- LOI received from Amarin Group December 2024; CRA Board accepted and directed staff to negotiate concurrently with notice to dispose of land.
- Notice published 1/15/2025; Zero (0) received
- Sankofa proposal received 2/27/2025; CRA Board voted to negotiate a development agreement.
- Community input meeting was held 6/5/2025
Past Events:
- Land assemblage 2011 – present.
- Execution of contract with Retail Strategies May 2024
CRA Project Manager: Lena Webb
Redevelopment Plans
Project Overview
The transformation of Henry Davis Park is a long-awaited project rooted in the voices of the Glenwood community. Identified as a top priority during the 2025 CRA Socials and online community survey, the park’s revitalization reflects a shared vision for more accessible, inclusive, and engaging public spaces.
Set for completion by April 2026, the reimagined Henry Davis Park will be a vibrant neighborhood destination designed to strengthen community bonds and support healthy and active lifestyles.
Project Features
- 20x30 Pavilion with picnic tables, XL grill and hot coals disposal bil
- 20x20 shade canopy for community garden with workstation table
- 6x10 shed and gardening supplies for community garden
- Kiwanis Centennial Playground
- Bankshot Basketball Court
- Gaga Ball Pit
- Repaint Restrooms
- Bike rack and bike repair station with air pump
- Repaint remaining swingset and replace swings
- Park Sign
- Henry A. Davis Memorial Sign
- New fencing
Project Details
- CRA District: Downtown North District
- Project Cost: $300,000
- CRA Contribution: $125,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY2025 Downtown North District Budget
- Kiwanis Contribution: $175,000
Project Design Plans and Concepts: /DocumentCenter/View/10223
Project Dates
- Project is anticipated to be complete by December 2025 (with exception of playground).
- Playground to be installed March-April 2026.
- Ribbon Cutting Celebration April 25, 2026.
Past Events
- Design phase begins March 2025.
- Construction began July 2025.
- Construction of Bankshot court to begin August 2025.
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
Redevelopment Plan: Panama City CRA Comprehensive Redevelopment Plan
ST. ANDREWS DISTRICT PROJECTS
Project Overview
The Beck Ave FDOT Beautification project is a landscaping and beautification initiative aimed at enhancing Beck Avenue, which runs through the heart of the St. Andrews District. The project will involve the installation of Florida-friendly plants and landscaping along Beck Avenue, creating an attractive and sustainable entryway for the community.
This project is funded through a partnership between the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the St. Andrews CRA District, focused on improving the overall appearance and environmental quality of the area.
Project Features
- Florida-friendly landscaping along Beck Avenue
- Beautification of the St. Andrews District entrance at US98 and Beck Ave
- Sustainable plantings for improved aesthetics and environmental impact
Project Details
- CRA District: St. Andrews District
- Project Cost: $520,300
- CRA Contribution: $20,300
- FDOT Grant Contribution: $500,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY25 St. Andrews District Budget
Project Dates
- Start Date: July 2024 (selection, design & permitting)
- Construction Start Date: September 2025
- Estimated Completion: February 2026
- July 2024: Piney Grove Nursery awarded the contract through RFP solicitation
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
Redevelopment Plan: St. Andrews CRA Redevelopment Plan
Project Overview
The Bayview Boardwalk project, funded by an HRP grant with a matching contribution from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), aims to restore and enhance a vital community space along Bayview Avenue. Damaged in September 2020 by Hurricane Sally, the existing wooden boardwalk will be rebuilt and expanded to stretch 20 feet out over the bay.
This revitalized boardwalk is designed to boost the local economy by attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and providing a vibrant space for community gatherings. In addition to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for residents, the expanded area will accommodate events such as a farmer’s market and other community activities.
The Bayview Boardwalk is a key part of the city’s broader initiative to revitalize the area and strengthen the local economy, creating a dynamic waterfront space that blends recreation, commerce, and community.
Project Features
Renovation to the existing boardwalk, expanded 20 feet out over the bay.
Project Details
CRA District: St. Andrews District
Project Cost: $2,400,000.00
CRA Contribution: $1,200,000.00
CRA Funding Source: FY24, FY25, FY26 St. Andrews District Budgets
Redevelopment Plan: St. Andrews CRA Redevelopment Plan
Project Overview
The Oaks by the Bay Park Playground Project involves the installation of a small, nature-inspired playground within Oaks by the Bay Park. The playground is planned for the north end of the park near the existing parking lot and will feature natural, wood-like elements designed to complement the park’s historic and waterfront setting.
This project is being developed with thoughtful input from the Historic St. Andrews Waterfront Partnership to ensure the playground aligns with the character of the St. Andrews waterfront while meeting the needs of families and children. The addition of a playground will expand recreational opportunities in the park and provide a dedicated, family-friendly space that encourages outdoor activity, imaginative play, and connection to the surrounding environment.
Project Features
- Small-scale playground with natural, wood-like design elements
- Age-appropriate play components (final selection informed by public input)
- Playground located near the north end of the park
- Safety fencing installed between the playground and parking area
- Design sensitive to the historic and waterfront context of the park
Project Details
- CRA District: St, Andrews District
- Project Cost: $150,000+ (Total project cost may increase depending on available remaining funds from the Truesdell Clubhouse renovation.)
- CRA Contribution: Fully-funded by St. Andrews CRA
- CRA Funding Source: FY26 St. Andrews District Budget
- Project Partners: Historic St. Andrews Waterfront Partnership
Project Dates
- October 2025: State approval process initiated for playground installation on state grant-funded property
- November 2025: Collection of proposed playground designs from vendors began
- February/March 2026: Public input meeting to present design concepts and gather community feedback
- Final Design Selection: To follow public input and state approval
- Construction & Installation: Pending state approval and final design selection. Anticipated completion by September 2026
Redevelopment Plan: St. Andrews Redevelopment Plan
MILLVILLE DISTRICT PROJECTS
Project Overview
Millville Waterfront Park is a recreational waterfront park being developed on 4.2 acres of land purchased by the CRA in 2008. A new fishing pier was added to the site in 2013. In 2023, plans began for the full development of the park, which include an amphitheater for hosting community events.
This park is expected to significantly benefit the community by providing a free, accessible outdoor space for recreation and relaxation. The waterfront location offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying nature, while the amphitheater will host a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and educational programs. These amenities will enhance the overall quality of life for residents and contribute to the revitalization of the neighborhood.
Project Features
- Walking Path
- Playground with padded turf surface (ages 2-5 and 5-12)
- Amphitheater with stage lighting
- 23 Live Oak Trees & 13 Fringe Trees
- LED bollard lighting along path
- Benches and trash cans
- Pergola swings donated by Central Panhandle Association of Realtors (CPAR)
- Covered picnic tables
- Drinking fountain
- Bike rack and bike repair station
- Pet Waste station
- Park signage
- Restore parking area and add golf cart/motorcycle parking - Phase II
- Restrooms (4 individual) - Phase II
- Landscaping - Phase II
- Bike Safety Village - Phase III
Project Details
- CRA District: Millville District
- Project Cost: $1,500,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY2024, FY2025 & FY2026 Millville District Budgets
- Pergolas Grant: $7500 from CPAR
- USDA Grant: provided funding for trees and irrigation
- Irrigation Installation: provided by AmeriCorps
Project Dates
- Phase I construction commenced June 2024
- Phase I is anticipated to be complete by October 2025
- Phase II (restrooms) is anticipated to be completed by June 2026
- Phase III construction is on hold pending funding availability
Past Events
- January 2026 - Restroom construction begins
- December 2025 - Landscaping Architect begins design
- September 2025 - Amphitheater construction completed
- April 2025 - Amphitheater construction begins
- February 2025 - LED Bollard path lighting installed
- January 2025 - Bike Safety Village plans begin
- December 2024 - Restrooms plans completed, Parking lot plans begin
- November 2024 - 37 new trees installed
- October 2024 - Playground installed
- September 2024 - Benches, picnic tables, trash cans, pet waste station installed
- August 2024 - Sidewalks installed
- June 2024 – Revisions to engineering plans finalized / construction begins
- May 28, 2024 – Inland Construction & Engineering awarded bid
- May 21, 2024 – CRA Board approved the award of the lowest bid to Inland Construction & Engineering Inc
- May 15, 2024 – Project bidding was opened. Two bids were received
- March 12, 2024 – MOU executed between the City of Panama City, CRA and the DIB
- March 11, 2024 – Development Order issued
- February 14, 2024 – Final Engineering plans received
- 2008 – Land Purchase
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
Redevelopment Plan: Millville CRA Redevelopment Plan
Project Overview
Daffin Park, a vibrant community park located in the Millville District, is undergoing a significant transformation through a multi-year in-house collaborative effort between the Parks, Culture & Recreation Dept, Public Works Dept, CRA Dept and Housing Dept.
This project includes major renovations to the exterior of the clubhouse, the addition of a brand-new football field with a scoreboard, upgrades to the youth baseball field with new fencing, dugouts, and bleachers, a redesigned parking area, and the installation of a new basketball court.
This revitalization aims to create a high-quality recreational space for the community, encouraging outdoor activities and enhancing the overall appeal and livability of the neighborhood.
Project Features
- Renovated clubhouse exterior, roof replacement and bathroom updates
- Football field
- Scoreboard donated by Coca Cola
- Youth baseball field with updated fencing, dugouts, bleachers, bat racks and batting cage
- Redesigned parking area
- New basketball court
- Concessions stand improvements - AC coming in 2026
- New drinking fountain, benches and trash receptacles
- New flagpole
- Installation of new well
- New LED lighting - coming 2026
- Multi-purpose field surface improvements - coming 2026
- Clubhouse kitchen renovation - coming 2026
- Temperature regulating storage containers for youth equipment - coming 2026
- Ice Machine - coming 2026
- Landscaping decor - coming 2026
Project Details
- CRA District: Millville District
- CRA Funding Contribution: $185,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY24, FY25 & FY26 Millville District Budget
- Scoreboard Donation: Coca Cola
Project Dates
- Start Date: January 2024
- Estimated Completion: September 2026
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
Redevelopment Plan: Millville CRA Redevelopment Plan
Project Overview
The Millville US98 FDOT Beautification project is a landscaping and beautification initiative focused on enhancing the gateway entrance to the Millville District, near Whittington Park. This effort aims to plant Florida-friendly vegetation along both sides of US98, creating a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing corridor for residents and visitors.
This project is a collaboration between the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Millville CRA District, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and visually appealing community development.
Project Features
- Florida-friendly landscaping along both sides of US98
- Gateway beautification to highlight the Millville District
- Sustainable plantings for improved aesthetics and environmental impact
Project Details
- CRA District: Millville District
- Project Cost: $260,000
- CRA Contribution: $10,000
- FDOT Grant Contribution: $250,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY25 Millville District Budget
Project Dates
- July 2024: Piney Grove Nursery awarded the contract through RFP solicitation
- Completed: June 2025
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
Redevelopment Plan: Millville CRA Redevelopment Plan
Project Overview
The Millville CRA is partnering with ForBay, NorthStar Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, Carlisle Baptist Church and Hiland Park Baptist Church to breathe new life into Historic Millville Cemetery. This community-driven restoration effort will take place on Saturday, October 25th at 8:00 a.m. at the historic site located on 3rd Street in Millville.
This six-acre cemetery holds decades of Millville's history, and through this collaborative volunteer initiative, we're ensuring that this sacred ground continues to honor the legacy and heritage of our community for generations to come.
This project represents our ongoing commitment to preserving Millville's historic character while fostering community pride and engagement.
Project Features
Phase I (October 25, 2025)
The first phase focuses on revitalizing the cemetery's most visible feature, its perimeter fence, which has fallen into severe disrepair over the years.
Community Action:
- Volunteers from all four partner organizations will join forces to paint the entire fence surrounding the six-acre site
- The Parks, Culture & Recreation Department will prep the site by power washing both the fence and cemetery sign, plus clearing overgrown plants and debris along the fence line
CRA Support:
- All paint and supplies provided
- Refreshments and snacks for our hardworking volunteers
Phase II (Date TBD)
The second phase will tackle the heart of the cemetery grounds with comprehensive restoration work:
- Removing weeds and debris throughout the cemetery
- Carefully cleaning and restoring historic headstones
- Updating and enhancing the landscaping to create a peaceful, respectful environment
Partner organizations for Phase II are currently being confirmed.
Project Details
- CRA District: Millville District
- Project Cost: $30,000
- CRA Contribution: $30,000
- CRA Funding Source: FY25 Millville District Budget
Project Dates
Volunteer Day and Phase I efforts took place October 25, 2025.
Phase II date and participating organizations still to be determined.
Redevelopment Plan: Millville CRA Redevelopment Plan
CRA Project Manager: Michelle Zirkle
For More Information Please Contact: Michelle Zirkle, CRA, mzirkle@panamacity.gov