City seeks clarity on $8M Beach Drive multi-use path amidst grant concerns

The City of Panama City held a meeting on July 13, 2025, focusing on various community projects and infrastructure updates. The session began with a discussion regarding the Joe Moody Harris Park grant, valued at $700,000. City officials expressed optimism about finalizing the grant, which is currently undergoing an audit process. They emphasized the importance of not jeopardizing the funding by commencing work prematurely. Plans for the park include a new path, exercise equipment, and potentially Frisbee golf holes.

Commissioner Jim Lawrence suggested enhancing communication with the public by placing signage in parks to update residents on grant statuses and ongoing projects. He also expressed gratitude for recent infrastructure improvements, particularly on West Beach Drive, while advocating for user fees at boat ramps to ensure maintenance and sustainability.

The meeting also addressed concerns about derelict properties along Beach Drive, with Lawrence urging the city to incentivize property owners to improve their waterfront areas. He highlighted the importance of a vibrant waterfront in attracting boaters and enhancing the local economy.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the West Beach Drive multi-use path project. Questions arose regarding the status of the project, the remaining grant funds, and the city's collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Concerns were raised about the feasibility of the path's design within the existing right-of-way and the potential expiration of the grant.

City officials acknowledged the need for better tracking of project expenditures and contractor invoicing. A proposal was made to provide regular updates on all ongoing projects, including their statuses and any safety incidents related to infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to draft a memo summarizing the discussions and addressing outstanding questions regarding the West Beach Drive project and other community initiatives. The city aims to enhance transparency and keep residents informed about developments that impact their community.