Gulf Shores, Ala. – (GSN) – How many times have you heard a local resident ask for natural wetlands and waterfront property to be preserved? That is what the City of Gulf Shores is doing at the Laguna Cove Nature Park on West Beach. Upon receiving funding from Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), the city staff sprung into action,

The new park area is being designed with the environment and preservation as the ultimate goal. The upcoming Laguna Cove Nature Park is a 53 acre conservation and recreation project located at the end of West Beach Blvd along Little Lagoon.

The city's contractor has mobilized and crews have begun initial site work. Much of the base material for the driveway is now in place and work is underway on installing the pilings for the boardwalks. The City of Gulf Shores recently provided a project update on their official Facebook page.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠:

• Restoration of wetlands and critical habitats

• Public restrooms

• Low impact parking

• Kayaking, birding, and interpretive boardwalks

The City’s acquisition of this land preserves an important natural area, protecting it from future development and ensuring it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and outdoor recreation.

This project is fully funded by a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) grant from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which also funded the land purchase in 2017.

Construction is being completed by Asphalt Services, with a bid of $2.6 million, and design services provided by Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood.

Several local residents have placed comments on the social media page:

"What an awesome and amazing project. This is something every resident in Gulf Shores should be proud of and support. This is a beautiful property and will be a one of a kind. Great job city leaders!!!!"

"Fabulous, protecting it from future development....and protecting wildlife and wetlands !!! GOOD for Gulf Shores."

The exact completion date is unknown but weather has been favorable for an expedited opening.