Panama City says more than $300 million in rebuilding projects is underway, from marinas to the Martin Theatre
The city's first State of the City address listed major projects, timelines and 2027 work, but its release does not give costs or funding sources.
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Panama City says more than $300 million in major rebuilding projects is reshaping its infrastructure, waterfront, downtown and recreation areas. City Manager Jonathan Hayes presented the projects on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, at the city’s first State of the City Address and Open House in the City Hall Rotunda, according to the city’s news release.
What major projects did the city list?
The city named these projects in its release:
| Project | What the city said | Timing given |
|---|---|---|
| St. Andrews Marina restoration | Nearly $25 million investment expanding capacity and restoring facilities at a historic working waterfront | Not given |
| Downtown Panama City Marina | First 50 boat slips in the western basin, an initial step toward a larger marina redevelopment | Not given |
| Martin Theatre complex, Tennessee House and The Ritz | Redevelopment as a downtown cultural destination | Completion projected for fall 2027 for the three buildings together |
| Harrison Avenue Streetscape | Pedestrian safety and increased downtown activity | Completed in November 2025 |
What is planned for 2027?
The city says additional projects planned for 2027 include drainage improvements in Robinson Bayou, work on the Tarpon Dock Drawbridge, and about 22 miles of roadway through FEMA-supported recovery work. The release also cites aging utilities, roadway and drainage improvements, and pedestrian connections in downtown, the Cove, Glenwood and Millville. It does not give start dates or contractors for these projects.
Who pays for the work?
The $300 million figure is the city’s own total for major rebuilding projects. The release does not break it down by project or by funding source, so it does not say how much comes from the city, FEMA, or state and federal agencies. The adopted Fiscal Year 2027 budget prioritizes rebuilding financial reserves, controlling operating expenditures and sustaining infrastructure investment, the city said.
Recognition for recent projects
The Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center was nominated for the American Institute of Architects People’s Choice Award. The Harrison Avenue Streetscape Project was named a finalist for the 2026 Great Places in Florida People’s Choice Award. The city also received a 2026 CivicPlus Community Impact Award for its efforts to improve community services.
Questions and answers
- How much is Panama City spending on rebuilding projects?
- The city says more than $300 million in major rebuilding projects is underway. Its release does not break down costs by project or give funding sources.
- When will the Martin Theatre redevelopment in Panama City be finished?
- The city projects completion for fall 2027 for the Martin Theatre, Tennessee House and The Ritz together, according to its release on the State of the City address.