Panama City completes Mackenzie Park upgrades and Downtown street signs project

The City of Panama City held a government meeting on May 6, 2025, focusing on various community improvement projects, including enhancements to Mackenzie Park and the downtown street signage initiative.

The meeting began with an update on Mackenzie Park improvements. Officials reported that outdated bollards and posts have been removed, and they are currently seeking quotes for additional seating, picnic sets, and outdoor musical instruments. However, these upgrades are on hold pending decisions regarding the future costs associated with the downtown breezeway project. Board members inquired about the colorful lights installed in the park, which were funded separately by the Downtown Improvement Board (DIB).

Following the discussion on Mackenzie Park, the meeting moved to the topic of downtown street signs and directory boards. The project had a budget of $125,000, with $111,645 already expended. Contributions included $15,000 from Destination Panama City and $10,000 from the DIB. Phase 1 of the project is complete, and Phase 2 will involve additional signage, which will be installed by city staff as their workload allows. The city plans to cut down the excess height of existing signs to improve visual consistency.

Officials have obtained three quotes for digital directory boards and plan to seek board approval to incorporate this component into the project for fiscal year 2026, depending on budget compatibility. Board members raised questions about the height of the existing signs, clarifying that the adjustments would be made to new poles that were recently installed.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance community spaces and improve signage in downtown Panama City, with future steps contingent on budget considerations and project timelines.