Some huge revitalization plans are coming together for historic downtown Panama City, Florida.
City officials said they partnered with town planning firm Dover, Kohl & Partners, stakeholders and citizens to create the local Strategic Vision in 2019.
The outline highlights plans and ideas for the revitalization of historic downtown and its waterfront.
Many of the projects are taking place along Harrison Ave. and include the restoration of the Martin Theater, streetscape improvements and ongoing art projects.
City manager Mark McQueen said the streetscape project will help the city both economically and environmentally: “This is a culmination of thousands of hours of citizen-driven imagination of how to reinvent the city,” McQueen said. “All of this is part in parcel to stimulating the downtown, the economy and the revitalization that’s taking place.”
Streets will be newly-lined with iconic live oak trees, and the ground underneath will help filter the storm drain water before going into the bay.
The Panama City Marina is also being renovated improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
Photo courtesy of Rob Hainer / Panama City Chamber of Commerce.