Redeveloping the Existing Airport Site

Pittsburgh-based PCA Development has been identified as the probable high bidder for the existing airport property, and contract negotiations are to begin immediately.

Airport Authority Vice Chairman Bill Cramer estimated that it would take about 60 days or so to negotiate a contract.

Talks will continue with the other bidders in the event the Airport Authority is unable to reach a contract with PCA. That’s smart.

PCA has presented a preliminary development plan that calls for a village-style, mixed-use town center with an entertainment district clustered around lakes and opens spaces and parks.

The principals in PCA were involved in the development of Wild Heron on Lake Powell.

Here’s the most important thing to remember:

Anything that PCA does at the existing site will require a DRI and will be subject to zoning by Panama City. The appropriate state and local regulators will oversee the re-development process, not the Airport Authority.

That’s how it should be.