About CRA
Revitalizing Panama City, One District at a Time
The Panama City Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is dedicated to transforming our city’s neighborhoods by reinvesting tax dollars where they’re needed most. Through strategic improvements, we tackle blight, enhance infrastructure, and support economic growth—making Panama City a better place to live, work, and invest.
Our Districts
The Panama City CRA serves four distinct districts, each with its own redevelopment plan:
- Downtown (established in 1984)
- St. Andrews (1989)
- Downtown North (1993)
- Millville (2004)
By reinvesting property tax growth from these areas, we fund projects that restore historic charm, modernize infrastructure, and create opportunities for businesses and residents.
Our Mission
We are committed to revitalizing Panama City through targeted investment and thoughtful planning. Our focus includes:
- Eliminating blight for cleaner, safer neighborhoods
- Upgrading infrastructure to support future growth
- Boosting economic development to attract businesses and jobs
- Empowering communities to shape a vibrant and thriving future
How CRA Funding Works
The CRA is not part of the City’s General Fund. The CRA only operates on Tax Increment Financing (TIF) - a funding model that reinvests increased property tax revenue from revitalized areas directly back into those communities. This approach allows us to fund essential projects without raising taxes elsewhere. As property values rise, so does the available funding, creating a self-sustaining cycle of growth and improvement.
Building a Stronger Community
Every dollar generated in a CRA district stays in that district, funding projects that:
- Support local businesses
- Improve walkability and public spaces
- Enhance infrastructure and community amenities
- Boost economic development
- Assist with affordable housing
Through these efforts, the CRA plays a vital role in strengthening Panama City.