The winning entry for the 2023 Florida City and County Management Association (FCCMA) Photo Contest was submitted by the City of Panama City Beach. The city turned their entry into a contest, asking residents and visitors to submit a photo which best depicts life in Panama City Beach. They received 50 entries, with the winning photo selected by the Mayor and City Council.
Many have commented that the photo has an old Florida vibe. It was taken in July 2022 on the Russell-Fields City Pier, looking back toward Pier Park. The photographer is Tracey Miller of Ontario, Canada, who is living in PCB as her husband is part of the Canadian Detachment assigned to Tyndall Air Force Base.
The winning FCCMA entry competed against 36 other entries and received 1,206 votes.
The emerald waters, white sandy beaches and breath-taking sunsets explain the allure of Panama City Beach to the 4.5 million people who visit each year. The tagline “Home of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches” is not a statement argued by those who live here or have visited.
Like many communities in Florida, tourism is the City’s number one industry, and this photo captures beachgoers enjoying the sandy beach, with the City’s largest retail hub, Pier Park, pictured in the background. The City has a booming local economy, primarily consisting of hospitality, food service, specialty shops and other small businesses.
The city pier itself, is also a large tourist attraction, with more than 310,000 visitors each year. At 1,500 feet, it is one of the longest piers on the Gulf and offers both great fishing and breathtaking views. The pier never closes and is open year-round.
Incorporated in 1970, Panama City Beach has no true Main Street, but this area around the Pier along Front Beach Road comes close, as it is a hub of activity and the home of numerous concerts, festivals and other special events at nearby Aaron Bessant Park.
The City Council last year approved a contract with a private entity for the redevelopment of the Pier and boardwalk. Decking will be replaced, restrooms upgraded and new building going in featuring rooftop views and entertainment options. The redevelopment will strengthen the area’s appeal as a destination.
