Ward Wednesday

January 28, 2026

Ward 4 update from Commissioner Josh Street

The City is nearing the conclusion of a more than two-year effort to establish its first Quiet Zone for rail traffic—an initiative driven directly by resident feedback. Many families living near the railroad have shared concerns about increased train horn activity, particularly late at night and early in the morning, and the impact disrupted sleep has on daily life. In response, the City began exploring the creation of a Quiet Zone, a designated area where trains no longer routinely sound their horns at crossings while still maintaining safety through emergency use when necessary. Quiet Zones are successfully used across the country and throughout Florida, and if approved, this effort will reduce noise without compromising safety. On January 21, the City submitted a Notice of Intent, formally beginning the required federal review process. This project reflects a commitment to good government: listening to residents, focusing on practical solutions, and making thoughtful decisions that improve quality of life, because small wins often make the biggest difference.

January 21, 2026

Ward 3 update from Commissioner Brian Grainger

Ward 3 Commissioner Brian Grainger provides an update on the Venetian Villas infrastructure project, a two-phase, $14 million investment funded through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) in one of Ward 3's most populated areas. Phase Two was completed in November, and Phase One is expected to be finished at the end of February. The project replaces aging water and sewer lines, upgrades lift stations, and adds sidewalks, curbs, and driveways to address long-standing infrastructure issues at their source.

Commissioner Grainger also explained that some potholes take longer to repair because they are caused by failing underground utilities, which must be fixed before roads can be properly rebuilt. Citywide, Panama City is addressing decades of deferred maintenance to water, sewer and stormwater systems, leading to multiple infrastructure projects occurring at the same time. Residents are encouraged to report roadway issues by email or phone, with an after-hours number available for urgent concerns.

January 14, 2026

Ward 2 update from Commissioner Janice Lucas

After being closed for seven years following Hurricane Michael, Joe Moody Harris Park is reopening as construction begins this quarter on Phase 1 of its restoration. The first phase focuses on safety, accessibility, and community use by adding walking trails, playgrounds, outdoor fitness stations, picnic pavilions, improved parking, bike racks, water fountains and solar lighting across the park’s 31 acres. The $1.3 million project is funded through $666,000 from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, along with City matching funds and support from Franklin’s Promise for cleanup efforts. Future phases will add more amenities as funding allows. Residents are invited to share their input at a community meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the MLK Jr. Recreation Center.

January 7, 2026

Ward 1 update from Commissioner Robbie Hughes

 

The City of Panama City will begin a major roadway reconstruction project along West Beach Drive in Downtown, addressing long-standing infrastructure issues and improving safety and walkability. The project will rebuild West Beach Drive from 6th Street to 4th Street and Mulberry Avenue from 6th Street to Beach Drive, replacing failing water, sewer, and stormwater lines and installing new pavement. Improvements also include a 12-foot multi-use path along West Beach Drive and 6-foot sidewalks on Mulberry Avenue. The $5.7 million project is funded through the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery and the Infrastructure Surtax. Design is complete, bidding is expected in spring 2026, construction is anticipated to begin mid-2026, and completion is projected for summer 2027.

February 4, 2026

Ward 1 update from Commissioner Robbie Hughes

 

The Tarpon Dock Water Main Project is a planned infrastructure upgrade set to begin construction later this year, aimed at improving water pressure and system reliability in the Tarpon Dock area. The project will replace an aging water line with a new 12-inch water main installed beneath Massalina Bayou on the north side of the Tarpon Dock Bridge and extending to Luverne Ave, where it will connect with another city project. Once complete, the improvements are expected to benefit homes and businesses from Harrison Avenue to Cherry Street. Currently in the design phase with Mott MacDonald, the approximately $1 million project is funded through the State Revolving Fund and is designed to minimize disruptions and avoid water service interruptions during construction.

February 11, 2026

Ward 1 update from Commissioner Janice Lucas 

 

The Small Developer Boot Camp is coming to Panama City! This five-week, hands-on program will teach local entrepreneurs and community members how to transform vacant lots and historic storefronts into thriving neighborhood spaces. Participants will gain practical skills like creating investor proposals, understanding zoning regulations, and pitching development ideas. Sessions run Thursdays from 4 to 7 PM, February 26 through March 26 at City Hall. Register here: https://www.incrementaldevelopment.org/events/panamacitybootcamp