Panama City Approves Upgrades to Downtown Breezeway

Two local business owners to develop the property in public-private partnership

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:52am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a series of sleek, geometric architectural models in muted shades of gray, blue, and white, representing the planned upgrades to the Panama City downtown breezeway. The models are arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic seamless background, using sharp, dramatic studio lighting and deep shadows to convey a sense of modern, functional design.Architectural models showcase the planned upgrades to Panama City's downtown breezeway, a key connector between the city's retail and dining districts.Panama City Today

The downtown breezeway in Panama City, Florida is set to undergo long-awaited upgrades after city officials sold the property for $10 and approved a public-private partnership. Two downtown business owners will now develop the property, with plans to build two ADA-compliant pedestrian bridges and improve the overall look and functionality of the breezeway.

Why it matters

The breezeway is a key connector between downtown Panama City's retail and dining districts, so these upgrades are expected to improve foot traffic and accessibility in the city's core commercial area. The public-private partnership model also demonstrates the city's commitment to collaborating with local businesses to revitalize the downtown.

The details

Under the agreement approved by the city, the two downtown business owners will take over development and management of the breezeway property. Their plans include constructing two new ADA-compliant pedestrian bridges to improve accessibility, as well as enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the breezeway through landscaping, lighting, and other improvements.

  • On April 12, 2026, the Panama City Commission voted to sell the breezeway property for $10 and approve the public-private partnership.
  • The upgrades to the downtown breezeway are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The players

Panama City

The city government of Panama City, Florida that owns the downtown breezeway property and approved the public-private partnership for its redevelopment.

Two downtown business owners

The private developers who will take over the breezeway property and oversee the planned upgrades through the public-private partnership with the city.

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What they’re saying

“These upgrades will be a game-changer for our downtown, making it more accessible and attractive for both residents and visitors.”

— Mayor Greg Brudnicki, Mayor of Panama City

What’s next

The two business owners will now finalize their development plans and secure any necessary permits, with the goal of beginning construction on the breezeway upgrades by early 2028.

The takeaway

Panama City's decision to partner with local businesses to revitalize the downtown breezeway demonstrates a collaborative approach to urban renewal that leverages public assets and private expertise. This project is expected to boost foot traffic, accessibility, and the overall appeal of the city's commercial core.