Municipal boundaries are typically developed based on community feedback, and natural geographic and infrastructure-based dividing lines. Borders are often based on a sense of common identity.

The map boundaries used for the study were initially designed for research purposes, based on community input, asking residents what they considered Perdido versus West Pensacola. Residents in these areas largely identified as being from “Perdido Key,” “Perdido Bay,” or just “Perdido.” Feedback was also gathered from discussions with local leaders and community volunteers.

While the initial boundaries were developed for research purposes, the town’s municipal boundaries are not finalized until the legislative vote and are up for discussion as a community. It is common to see some adjustments as the process continues. The municipal incorporation process in Florida requires that the boundaries be measurably compact and contiguous, and they cannot create enclaves. The state also recommends including a mix of land use types.

Some of these factors have led us to consider additional areas, such as the Roscoe Airfield (formerly Ferguson Airport) and the northeast corner of the Blue Angel and Sorrento intersection.