Pensacola’s Vision for 2035: Shaping the Future Together
This spring and summer, over 1,700 Pensacola residents shared their hopes and ideas for the city’s future. Through surveys, community events, and focus groups, the community voiced what they want Pensacola to become by 2035. Now, that vision is taking shape, and on November 12, CivicCon will unveil what residents imagine for their city’s next decade.
The city partnered with Gehl, an urban design and strategy firm, to lead "Strive to Thrive: 2035," a strategic plan aiming to build on Pensacola’s strengths and embrace global trends. The planning team engaged residents in over 20 formats, from online surveys to walking tours and even a focus group with teens, ensuring that every voice had a chance to be heard.
Through months of gathering and analyzing input, Gehl identified eight key goals for Pensacola’s growth:
Affordable Housing for All – Ensuring housing options for every income level.
Safe, Accessible Streets – Designing roads that serve all modes of transportation.
Support for Youth – Creating more opportunities and safe spaces for young people.
Resilient Waterfronts and Neighborhoods – Protecting and enhancing coastal areas and neighborhoods.
Walkable, Mixed-Use Districts – Developing spaces that encourage walking and social interaction.
Public Spaces that Connect – Building parks and gathering spots that foster community.
Innovation and Business Growth – Supporting a thriving economy with opportunities for new businesses.
Neighborhoods that Honor Heritage – Celebrating Pensacola’s diverse culture and rich history.
Each of these goals includes specific actions, examples of successful implementation in other cities, and measurable indicators for tracking progress. At the CivicCon event, Gehl’s senior project director, Anna Muessig, will dive deeper into some of these goals and explore how Pensacola can achieve this ambitious vision.
Pensacola is looking ahead with a plan shaped by its residents, making this next chapter a shared journey toward a vibrant, connected, and resilient city. Join the conversation on November 12 and be part of Pensacola’s bright future.
Source: PNJ