Panama City Beach votes to move more power lines underground

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Panama City Beach got lucky earlier this week when Hurricane Debby turned east and spared the area. On Thursday night, the Panama City Beach City Council agreed to make the city a little less susceptible to power outages for the next time a hurricane hits.

At Thursday’s regularly scheduled meeting, the council voted to reach an agreement with Florida Power and Light that will move power lines on segment 4.2 of Front Beach Road underground.

Front Beach Road Section 4.2 extends from just east of Hills Road to just west of Lantana Street. The power lines on this section were previously above ground.

Council members say moving the lines underground will not only mean one less eyesore, but also more protection against hurricanes and their winds.

“It is very important to keep power on during the storm, if possible, and to restore it as soon as possible after the hurricane. Putting these lines underground protects them more than those at higher elevations. Those at higher elevations are more vulnerable to hurricanes and stronger winds,” said Paul Casto, Councilman for District 1.

Council members say bids for the project will go out later this year and they hope to begin construction in early 2025.

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