Orange Beach City Schools Secure Funding to Enhance Sports Complex Security

OBA Staff • November 20, 2024

Orange Beach Schools Receive $182,804 for Athletic Complex Safety

Orange Beach Schools Receive $182,804 for Athletic Complex Safety

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach City Schools (OBCS) have been awarded a second Alabama K-12 Capital Grant, securing $182,804 from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The funding will be used to improve safety and security at the district's new athletic complex.


The grant will fund the installation of advanced surveillance cameras and door access systems. These enhancements are set to be installed in spring 2025, with completion expected by July 2025, aiming to ensure the athletic facilities are safe for both students and the community.


This new grant builds on the success of OBCS’s earlier award in 2023, where the district secured $2.5 million to support the construction of the athletic complex. The entire project is valued at $46.1 million.


In just a short span, the OBCS grant-writing team has brought in over $5.8 million through 36 grants, significantly enhancing educational facilities and programs. Superintendent Randy Wilkes expressed gratitude, noting that the grants reflect the team's dedication to providing high-quality, secure facilities.


"This grant is another testament to our commitment to providing safe, modern, high-quality facilities for our students and community," Wilkes said. The athletic complex is part of a broader district vision to promote excellence across academics, arts, and athletics.

Orange Beach City Schools Secure Funding to Enhance Sports Complex Security

Share this article w/ Friends...

Second Straight Month of Falling Home Prices in Baldwin
By OBA Staff June 8, 2025
Robertsdale, Ala. — (OBA) — Baldwin County home prices dropped for the second month in a row, according to the latest data from Baldwin REALTORS®. Both residential and resort markets saw lower average prices compared to last year. Homes also stayed on the market longer. Fewer properties were sold in some areas.
Free Mental Wellness Platform Now Available for All Alabamians
By OBA Staff June 8, 2025
A new online tool is now available to help Alabamians improve their mental wellness. CredibleMind, a free digital platform, offers personalized self-care resources to anyone in the state. It aims to close the gap between those seeking help and the shortage of mental health professionals. The program is completely anonymous, easy to use, and available right away.
LuLu Gribbin with Governor Ivey during the signing of LuLu's Law
By Jessica A. Taylor June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — On the eve of the one-year anniversary of Lulu Gribbin's nearly fatal shark attack, I could hear children laughing and playing with their family pets in the background, negotiating who gets to toss the ball next. “Are you done with your noodles” cried out the father, Dr. Ryan Forbess of Orange Beach, Alabama. Apologizing for the noise and distractions, he explained, “We are packing up to head out in the morning—back to the same place, actually.”
Orange Beach High School Star Gains Attention at University of Alabama
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach High School freshman Lee Steele is starting to make waves in the basketball world. The 6-foot-6 player had a standout day during a visit to The University of Alabama. His skills and work ethic caught the attention of head coach Nate Oats and his coaching staff. Observers say Steele is playing his best basketball yet.
Gulf State Park to Host Three-Day Shark Fest Event
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores will once again host Shark Fest, a popular summer event focused on marine life. The event takes place at Gulf State Park’s Saltwater Pier and offers hands-on activities for all ages. Guests will learn about Gulf Coast sharks through interactive exhibits, expert presentations, and up-close encounters. This year’s event promises more excitement, learning, and family-friendly fun.
Expect Excellence Brings Rock Hits to the Stage
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A high-energy rock show is returning to Orange Beach this summer. The Expect Excellence Music Department will perform “Dream On – A Tribute to Classic Rock” for three nights, June 26 through 28, at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center.
CoastAL Orange Beach Becomes Diamond Sponsor for Orange Beach City Schools
By OBA Staff June 6, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — CoastAL Orange Beach has stepped up to support education. The local business was named a Diamond Sponsor for Orange Beach City Schools. This is the highest level of sponsorship available. It means students will benefit across academics, arts, and athletics.
Baldwin County Teens Join City of Foley as Summer Interns
By Guy Busby June 6, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — High school students from across Baldwin County are getting a chance to learn how local government works. They will do this through a new internship program with the city of Foley. This is the first time Foley has offered this opportunity. The city introduced the first group of interns at the City Council meeting on Monday, June 2.
Gulf Shores Post Office Hosts Passport Fair June 7
By OBA Staff June 6, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Summer is a great time to travel and see the world. Unfortunately, many people do not have a passport when the opportunity arrives for international travel. Some citizens think that the paperwork is too much of a hassle. The USPS actually makes the process easier by holding Passport Fairs within local locations throughout the US. One such place is the Gulf Shores Post Office.
Two Vehicle Wreck Near Foley Claims Orange Beach Woman’s Life
By OBA Staff June 5, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALES) is reporting that an Orange Beach woman died after a two-vehicle crash late Wednesday morning near Foley. The accident happened on South Hickory Street near Baldwin County 20. The ALEA said the crash involved a Chevrolet pickup and a Jeep SUV. Troopers are still investigating the cause of the crash.
Show More