Why Do We Redevelop Communities?

Most organizational leaders, including those in local government, focus on the “how” or the “what” of their actions. In 1999, as a newly elected 22-year-old Palmetto city councilman, my “why” was “improving the citizens’ quality of life.” Over those next four years, my “why” drifted into a lot of “whats,” like a wastewater treatment plant…

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Rock the Plaza

The Rock the Plaza event provides a spotlight on plazas located within the BBCRA area while encouraging community members to patronize local businesses and restaurants. The plaza activations feature live music and entertainment, as well as engaging activities in an effort to stimulate foot traffic and showcase the offerings of local businesses. This free business…

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City Opens New Marina at Community Maritime Park in Downtown Pensacola

The City of Pensacola is opening the Pensacola Bay Pier at Community Maritime Park on Thursday. The Downtown Pensacola marina will provide free public waterfront access points for boaters visiting Community Maritime Park, Downtown Pensacola, and surrounding areas. “I’m excited to further activate our beautiful waterfront in Pensacola, creating more access for our residents and…

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The Greening of Florida’s Brownfields

Federal infrastructure funds are doubling the pace of transforming derelict sites. Over the last quarter-century, Florida has helped to transform almost 200 contaminated sites into clean community hubs. The pace of the redevelopment is about to pick up dramatically. Developer Roxanne Williams, who turns some of those derelict sites into places where she would be…

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World Changers are Coming to Panama City

The World Changers organization is bringing volunteers to Panama City in July. The organization is teaming up with the Panama City Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to complete home improvement projects for the residents in Downtown North and Millville. The projects can range from painting to repairing a porch and more. However, in order to receive…

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Change is Coming to Hollywood’s Main Street — for Drivers, Pedestrians, and Businesses

A $14.5 million construction project that began this week intends to transform Hollywood’s entertainment district into a corridor that puts pedestrians over vehicles. But before the transformation, comes the mess: workers, heavy machinery, dust, and a possible impact on business. What will the new project on downtown Hollywood’s main street look like when it’s finished…

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