KOA Campground in Panama City Beach Closes as Highway Expansion Begins

Panama City Beach, Florida, USA - With heavy hearts, residents of Panama City Beach are preparing for the impending closure of the local KOA campground, operated by Malanda Schmitz and her partners. This beloved campground, having opened its doors just over a year ago in January 2024, will officially shut down on July 15, 2025, as planned by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for a major traffic relief project. WJHG reports that the campground was initially established with the expectation that only a lane widening would occur on Highway 98. However, plans changed as the FDOT required 14 acres of the property for a stormwater pond, ultimately leading to the acquisition of the land via eminent domain.

Schmitz shared her dismay over the situation, mentioning that the area could soon be absorbed by water or transformed into a wall as part of the stormwater infrastructure. The emotional toll on the Schmitz family is palpable, with cherished memories intertwined with the campground now making way for construction as part of the Moving Florida Forward initiative, which prioritizes infrastructure development across the state.

Highway Expansion Plans

The yet-to-be-finalized construction plans involve widening Highway 98 from four to six lanes to alleviate congestion and enhance safety along this key route. As identified by Woodall’s Campground Management, the project is part of its third and final phase, with the design already finished and construction set to commence in the near future.

This is not just an isolated event; it fits into a broader context of transportation improvement efforts across Florida. The FDOT has been working diligently to manage traffic congestion and improve safety through various projects documented on their interactive map. Interested residents can explore active projects and construction contracts updated regularly through the FDOT’s resources, as outlined on their website FDOT.

For Malanda and her family, the KOA campground was more than just a business; it was a home—a place filled with laughter and memories. Now, with the impending changes, uncertainty looms regarding their next steps. While residing on the parcel of the property that the FDOT has yet to acquire, they are left to navigate this challenging transition.

As the closure looms ever nearer, and as this chapter closes for the KOA campground, it serves as a reminder of the balance between community infrastructure needs and the personal stories intertwined within those spaces. The road ahead may be paved with new lanes, but the memories of the campground will linger in the hearts of those who cherished it.