Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Another project using Restore Act funding is on the table in Gulf Shores. The city council is set to consider a contract with Thompson Engineering for an Alabama Department of Transportation traffic capacity project. This original contract will cover the permitting and environmental studies for improvements between Canal Road and East Second Street. Or, the Gulf Pines neighborhood bypass in the wake of the building of the pedestrian bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway.

The council will discuss the proposal at a work session on Oct. 20 in council chambers at city hall. See related story: Gulf Shores Plans $21.7M in Road Projects with Restore Funds

“This corridor has been identified for capacity improvements to improve efficiency and enhance access to and between the surrounding areas,” a memo on the meeting agenda states. The city was approved for $8 million in Restore Act money to complete the project.

With the pedestrian bridge closing the connection between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, traffic is now rerouted through the Gulf Pines neighborhood, bypassing the 90-degree turn at Canal Road and East Second Street. The new route will connect to East Second Street with a new road south of the neighborhood.

During the work session, the council will also:

• Hear a follow-up presentation on the 52nd Annual Shrimp Festival from Coastal Alabama Business Chamber President and CEO, Greg Alexander.
• Discuss implementing OpenGov customer relationship management software to better address the needs of residents. “The city wants to prioritize tracking, reporting, and responding to residents’ concerns by providing a centralized data entry point for all concerns to be compiled and tracked,” a memo from Economic Development and Public Affairs Director states.
• Consider accepting Bienville Avenue in the Retreat at Bon Secour West for city maintenance. The applicant has met the 24-month waiting period and more than 50 percent required as stated in city regulations.