DeSantis Announces $13M for Panama City Projects

Funds to support infrastructure and job creation in the region

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced $13 million in grants for infrastructure and job creation projects in Panama City during a recent visit. The funds will support the construction of a new Nursing and Simulation Center at Gulf Coast State College, as well as other local initiatives aimed at boosting the region's economy.

Why it matters

The investment in Panama City's infrastructure and workforce development programs is part of the governor's broader efforts to support economic growth in Florida's more rural and underserved areas. The new nursing facility at Gulf Coast State College will help train the next generation of healthcare workers for the region.

The details

During the event, DeSantis highlighted the state's commitment to developing critical infrastructure and workforce programs, particularly in Florida's rural communities. The $13 million in grants will fund the construction of the new Nursing and Simulation Center at Gulf Coast State College, as well as other unspecified local projects aimed at job creation.

  • The groundbreaking ceremony for the new nursing facility took place on February 26, 2026.
  • Governor DeSantis made the announcement of the $13 million in funding during his visit to Panama City on March 4, 2026.

The players

Ron DeSantis

The current Governor of Florida, who announced the $13 million in grants for infrastructure and job creation projects in Panama City.

Gulf Coast State College

A public college in Panama City, Florida, that is set to receive funding for the construction of a new Nursing and Simulation Center.

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What they’re saying

“One of the things that we've done is support infrastructure development, support workforce programs, particularly for some of our more rural areas throughout the state.”

— Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida

What’s next

The construction of the new Nursing and Simulation Center at Gulf Coast State College is expected to begin in the coming months, with the facility scheduled to open in 2028.

The takeaway

Governor DeSantis' investment in Panama City's infrastructure and workforce development programs demonstrates the state's commitment to supporting economic growth and opportunity in Florida's rural and underserved communities.