Spring Break Task Force On Track - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

Panama City Beach is known as one of Bay County's greatest gems because of it's beautiful beaches, family-friendly atmosphere and it's business opportunities.

Since a majority of the county's taxes come from the beach, government leaders want to improve life for residents and tourists.

An inter-local task force formed in March was created to target issues that arose from Spring Break. Traffic, noise and parking topped the list and four months later there's progress.

Bay County Commissioner Mike Thomas says county and city staff members are working together like never before. "We have never gotten ready before. We never could get the business community, the residential community, the city and the county on the same page."

Most recently, the county posted signs along Thomas Drive and Front Beach Road to prevent people from parking along the right of way. Fiber optic lines will also control stoplights near Joan Avenue and Front Beach Road, they're meant to help direct traffic.

A long-term plan also calls for 150-200 parking spaces at a vacant lot near the intersection of Thomas Dr. and Front Beach Rd.

Panama City Beach Mayor Gayle Oberst says the city understands there's a need for parking, but right behind those needs are noise and special events ordinances. "The planning department from the city and from the county has talked about some ordinances."

Officials also stress it is important that both the county and city have equivalent ordinances to avoid confusion across boundaries.

"For this to work, everyone's got to be on board with it." Thomas says.

With the progress made, the Mayor says she'll be ready to bring several ordinances before the city council. Commissioner Thomas says he'll be doing the same very soon.

The Bay County Sheriff's Office, Panama City Beach Police Department, Tourist Development Council, Bay County Commission and Panama City Beach Council are the parties involved in the task force.