Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  At their Monday night meeting, the Gulf Shores City Council approved a pre-zoning and annexation request for the Riviera property. The decision permits a new residential and commercial development. The property sits at the northwest corner of County Road 8 West and Highway 59. City officials said the move helps guide future growth in a key area.

During its regular meeting on April 27, 2026, the council held the vote. The request sought to annex about 36 acres for residential use and 3.6 acres for business zoning. Officials said the application was submitted before a recently adopted moratorium. As a result, the proposal was not subject to the moratorium.

According to city staff, the larger portion of the property will be zoned R13 for single-family homes. Plans call for 26 residential lots, most ranging from about half an acre to nearly one acre. The smaller section at the intersection is zoned for general business use and is expected to support future commercial activity.

City leaders said the proposal aligns with the city’s future land use plan. The plan includes goals such as managing growth and improving control over development along major roadways. Officials also noted that annexation helps create more consistent city boundaries, allowing the city to oversee zoning and infrastructure decisions.

Staff reported that part of the property has already been cleared. A fill permit was obtained from Baldwin County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for certain wetlands. The remaining land remains wooded. Plans divide the site into residential sections and a commercial corner near Highway 59.

The Gulf Shores Planning Commission reviewed the request before it reached the City Council. The commission recommended approval of both the zoning and the annexation. City Council members then voted in favor of the measures. The property-related ordinances were approved without opposition.

Officials said the development could offer new housing options while supporting nearby business growth. Its proximity to a major intersection makes it a visible and accessible site. City leaders said managing development in this area is important as Gulf Shores continues to grow.