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Park Will Feature 20 Miles Of Hiking and Biking Trails

An extensive water and wetlands conservation project being undertaken by Panama City Beach promises to be a major addition to the public park facilities in the area as well. At a tour of the 3000 acre site on June 6, Panama City Beach Mayor, Gail Oberst, announced that the facility will be named Panama City Beach Conservation Park.

At the site of the first stop made by the six vehicle caravan tour, the Mayor described the public facilities planned for the area, pointing out that the objective was to take full advantage of the educational and recreational opportunities available.

Short paths from the parking lot will lead to the main area. The largest structure will be an outdoor classroom, capable of seating more than 100 people. There will also be picnic pavilions, a Nature Center, public education kiosks and public restrooms.

For those who wish to explore the wide variety of natural habitats in the park, there will be more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. Boardwalks will provide access through the wetlands, as well. Along the way kiosks will provide information on the unique varieties of vegetation and wildlife observed.

Plant life habitat in the park ranges from majestic wetland cypress domes to vast pine flatwoods and varied undergrowth.

A major pipeline feeding the wetlands project will be covered with a 12-foot wide paved trail running from the end of North Gulf Boulevard off Backbeach Road to Conservation Park. This will also provide a connection from Conservation Park to the sports complex at Frank Brown Park in one direction and to Route 79 in the other. This section of walking, biking, and jogging trails will cover over 5 miles.

Construction on the project will begin as soon as permitting requirements are completed. Opening to the public is expected to be phased in, beginning in late 2008.