OLD BAPIST HOSPITAL DEMOLITION MOVING FORWARD

Demolition of the old Baptist Hospital in Pensacola is moving forward after the city council approved the contracts in November. Neighbors say they’re watching closely — especially people like Brenda Parsons, who worries about dust and air quality during the teardown. “Are we going to get a bunch of fallout?” she asks. Mayor D.C. Reeves says the project will take years and emphasizes it’s a city-and-county effort, with community voices guiding future redevelopment. Residents have big hopes for the site — maybe a park, walking trails, or affordable housing with better access to groceries and healthcare. Actual demolition begins in December and is expected to wrap up in 2027.