Bay County Economic Development Alliance

Bay County, Florida, has earned recognition as one of the top places for small business owners, ranking 8th in the state. The area's strong community spirit and commitment to collaboration have played a key role in its success. https://loom.ly/sieXc6Q

Florida State University has been approved to bring a state-of-the-art acute care hospital to Panama City Beach under the FSU Health name. With plans for specialized clinics and a future 87-acre medical campus, this facility will expand access to advanced medical care and clinical training in the region. Construction kicks off soon, with doors expected to open in 2028. https://loom.ly/b8MPnfw

Becca Hardin, President of Bay EDA, was honored to be part of this important meeting alongside the Executive Director of the Panama City Port Authority, and the Governor of the Yucatán. As we celebrate 20 years of partnership with Mérida and the Port of Progreso, we look forward to what the future holds!

Florida State University is looking to build a state-of-the-art hospital along Panama City Beach. This facility will bring 80 beds, a 20-bed ER, and specialized care in cardiology, gastroenterology, and pulmonary medicine—all while supporting groundbreaking biomedical research. https://loom.ly/JtmGEXs

The U.S. Census Bureau has released data indicating significant population growth in the Panama City/Panama City Beach metropolitan area. The report shows a 3.8% increase in population from July 2023 to July 2024, ranking the area second nationally for percentage growth. https://loom.ly/tWFnNmw

Watersound Club has officially expanded its premier golf offerings with the debut of The Third, a new 18-hole course designed by golf legend Davis Love III and his Love Golf Design team. This championship-level course brings the club’s total to 54 holes, further enhancing its reputation as a premier golf destination. https://loom.ly/Wxhy5s4

Hotel Indigo Panama City Marina is being recognized as "IHG Newcomer of the Year" by IHG Hotels & Resorts. This prestigious award reflects the hotel’s exceptional guest experiences, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Downtown Panama City. https://lnkd.in/eyepTJhR

Tyndall Air Force Base is undergoing a transformation to become the Installation of the Future, a project designed to enhance infrastructure, security, and mission readiness. This initiative includes the construction of 120 new facilities, improved roadways, and state-of-the-art housing for airmen, positioning the base for long-term success. https://loom.ly/gPRhGWw

Bay County has successfully completed phase two of its artificial reef project, deploying 10 new reef structures offshore. These reefs play a crucial role in enhancing marine habitats, supporting local fisheries, and strengthening the region’s economy through tourism, fishing, and diving industries. https://loom.ly/2PM0Nb4

Tripadvisor just released their 2025 Best of the Best Beaches list, and we're proud to see Panama City Beach recognized not once — but twice! This recognition is a testament to our area's natural beauty. See the full list here: https://loom.ly/vdN6iyI