The City of Panama City has announced that the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center is nearing completion after an extended period of planning and development. The facility, which has undergone a significant rebuild, will soon reopen to the public.
A soft opening event is scheduled for December 15, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. The event will include light refreshments and remarks from city staff, commissioners, project partners, and Javien Elliott, Manager of the MLK Jr. Recreation Center. Attendees will be able to tour the new facility and learn about upcoming programs and features.
The city has also planned a grand opening celebration for January 16, 2026. This event is expected to be larger and more interactive than the soft opening. Details regarding full operating hours and additional information about the center’s offerings are set to be released in the coming weeks.
“The City of Panama City expressed its appreciation to all who have supported this transformative project and looks forward to celebrating this new chapter while welcoming residents back to the MLK Jr. Recreation Center.”
