Three weeks into the Reimagine Palafox construction project, downtown is entering a new phase as demolition wraps up and crews shift focus to critical underground infrastructure.
- According to project updates from the city’s most recent communications group meeting on Jan. 22, the demolition phase is complete. Workers are currently installing Escambia County Utilities Authority (ECUA) water pipes and mains along with new stormwater infrastructure—the essential groundwork that will support downtown and its main corridor for decades to come.
What’s Happening Now
ECUA is handling water infrastructure installation and serves as the responsible entity for notifying businesses and residents of any temporary service disconnections.
The Downtown Improvement Board (DIB) continues its support role, with ambassadors assisting with the installation of the banners on the construction fencing. A-frame directional signs are being placed at the Baylen and Jefferson Street intersections to help guide traffic and customers to open businesses. The DIB is also exploring installing periscopes along the construction fence—an innovative touch that would allow pedestrians to see the work in progress.
Recognizing that not all downtown businesses operate on Monday schedules, organizers have adjusted the weekly “Palafox Pulse” interviews. The next Pulse will take place on Wednesday at 10-11 a.m. in front of Vinyl Music Shop.
Marketing the Message
The city and its partners are mounting a comprehensive marketing campaign to keep residents and visitors informed about downtown accessibility during construction:
- Rack cards have been distributed to beach areas and throughout downtown
- Digital advertising is running on Inweekly and this blog, with Pensacola News Journal options being explored
- Billboard advertisements are in design through a cooperative partnership with Lamar
- Organizers are working to include information in Pensacon welcome bags
- Discussions are underway with the Bay Center about utilizing their digital marquee
- Bi-weekly construction updates are planned
The Long View
The New Palafox Project, which kicked off January 5, represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments in downtown Pensacola’s recent history. While the construction phase brings inevitable disruptions, the project aims to create a more walkable, sustainable, and economically vibrant corridor connecting Pensacola Bay to the north side neighborhoods.
Downtown businesses remain open during construction, though access routes and parking options continue to evolve as work progresses. The county parking garage is being evaluated as a potential resource for additional parking capacity.
For updates on the project, visit the city’s website at thenewpalafox.com.