Traffic Light Planned Near the Wharf’s East Entrance
John Mullen • May 20, 2025
Dump truck, jail software, and beach study to be discussed
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – A new traffic light is being planned for the easternmost entrance to The Wharf. Orange Beach will consider a resolution for an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation at a joint regular/work session. Included in the agreement are installation, operation and maintenance. The once undeveloped entrance on either side of the entrance now has a Culver’s restaurant and a Cumberland gas station/convenience store.
The council will meet May 20 at 5 p.m. in council chambers. The new signal is on the work session agenda.
During the regular session, the council will also discuss:
- Approving payment for goods and services of $4 million from May 8-21.
- Approval of a liquor license for Tee Off at The Wharf in the old Portside location.
- Allowing a temporary trailer at 22801 Canal Road west of the entrance to The Wharf entertainment and dining complex. It will be used for employee shelter and will be on-site for six months per the resolution.
- Buying an access control system for the police department for $59,228 from Vision Security Technologies. The council will also consider buying a video surveillance system for the police department for $63,057 also from Vision.
- A contract with Southern Software for inmate records and jail management services for $319,669.
- Establishing fees for using the Orange Beach Shooting Complex, including a discount for the Orange Beach Middle/High School trap and skeet team.
- An automatic mid agreement with Escambia County, Florida, to help in structure fires as needed.
- Mutual aid agreements with Bay Minette and Coastal Community College for law enforcement and other public safety services.
- Awarding Assistant Police Chief Robert Howard and Officer Kenneth Clouse with their duty weapons and badge as part of retirement benefits.
- Amending the employee pay plan and job listings to add the positions of industrial maintenance electrician and senior human resources generalist.
- Amending the employee pay plan and job listings to add the positions of industrial maintenance electrician and senior human resources generalist.
- Awarding the proposal for a strategic and comprehensive plan contractor.
- An agreement with the Pensacola and Perdido Bays Estuary Program for marine debris volunteer coordination, trash removal and planting trees.
- Purchasing a Freightliner dump truck for the Utilities Department from Empire Truck Sales for $128,500.
- A contract with Foth Infrastructure and Environment for annual engineered beach monitoring for $54,800.
- An agreement with Alicia Arrington to be a special needs aide in the Expect Excellence Program.
- A public hearing and first reading of an ordinance change to allow for Bayside Garages on Pelican Place east of Lauder Road for two buildings totaling 28,000 square feet.
- A public hearing and first reading of an ordinance declaring real property owned by the city as surplus and selling it to the Wharf Landing for $180,500.
- An ordinance to establish a moratorium on development of wetlands or within 15 feet of wetlands.
During the work session, the council will also discuss:
- Authorizing two taxi franchises for CrozzzCabz and a renewal for Ms. Mary’s Taxi Service.
- Setting a public hearing for an ordinance change in the planned unit development for Oasis at Orange Beach, or the former Phoenix West II, to amend the section on signs.
Share this article w/ Friends...
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Wharf Amphitheater is heating up this summer with a full schedule of big-name concerts. Country, rock, comedy, and tribute shows are all part of the 2025 lineup. Fans will have plenty of chances to see major acts live. The season starts in May and runs into late October, with 13 shows already on the schedule.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – A prescribed fire is scheduled to take place Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley. The burn is part of a larger effort to restore natural habitats and reduce wildfire risks. The project is being done in partnership with the Alabama Forestry Commission. Officials are asking the public not to be alarmed if they see smoke in the area.
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic reeled in another successful weekend of big fish, fierce competition, and unforgettable memories at The Wharf. Anglers from across the Gulf Coast gathered to compete in one of the premier sport fishing tournaments in the region. The highlight of the weekend came in the Blue Marlin category, where Scott Cooper, with Team CE, landed a massive 640.2-pound marlin to take first place. Never Settle’s Jim Murdica, followed with an impressive 468.4-pound catch, earning second place.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The traffic light at the intersection of County Road 12 and Alabama 59 will be turned off for several hours to allow for upgrades. A temporary signal will be installed while the work is done. During this time, Foley police officers will be on-site to help direct traffic. Drivers are encouraged to use caution in the area.
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As National Safe Boating Week unfolds from May 17–23, 2025, Orange Beach, Alabama, joins communities nationwide in promoting boating safety. With its intricate network of waterways—including the Gulf of Mexico, Perdido Pass, Cotton Bayou, Terry Cove, Old River, Wolf Bay, Perdido Bay, and the Intracoastal Waterway—Orange Beach offers both beauty and challenges for boaters. This week serves as a timely reminder for all to prioritize safety on the water.
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As National Beach Safety Week kicks off today, coastal communities across the Gulf Coast are emphasizing the importance of water safety. Running from May 19 through Memorial Day, this annual campaign, organized by the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), aims to educate beachgoers on safe practices amid the summer surge of visitors. With millions expected to flock to the beaches of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and Perdido Key, local officials are intensifying efforts to promote awareness of hazards such as rip currents, marine life, and changing surf conditions.
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Gulf Coast is alive with energy, offering a full week of events and experiences for all ages. From coastal markets and live music to walking challenges and grand openings, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and enjoy the sunshine. Whether you’re a local looking for fresh weekend plans or a visitor hoping to make the most of your stay, this week brings a diverse lineup of activities designed to capture the spirit of our communities.
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Foley will consider a proposal from Jade Consulting to make streetscape improvements on South Chicago Street from U.S. 98 to East Orange Avenue. The plan will include improvements along 400 linear feet of the roadway. This will include determining the rights-of-way locations in the area. Surveys will also determine how driveways, drainage and other infrastructure will be improved in the project.
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, the City of Gulf Shores is urging residents to take proactive steps toward storm readiness. To support these efforts, the city will host its annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo, a public event designed to equip the community with essential information and resources. Officials say preparation plays a critical role in minimizing risk and ensuring safety during severe weather. The expo offers residents a chance to learn directly from emergency personnel and local service providers.
Sand In My Boots music festival has already proven to be a huge success for Gulf Shores and the surrounding areas. The new music festival was organized by the City and Morgan Wallen's group "Big Loud" over the past months, and the coordination is appreciated by attendees and locals alike.
