Orange Beach, Gulf State Park Enter 20-Year Agreement

This week, the City of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park signed a 20-year agreement “to provide guests and residents with a better beach-going experience,” the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced. Intended to increase the efficiency of maintenance and service activities for select locations in the park, including four beach access areas, 14 mi. of trails and various park access points, the partnership includes continued routine maintenance at the Romar Beach, Cotton Bayou, Alabama Point and Shell Beach access areas and associated restrooms. It also ensures the presence of lifeguards at the beaches during peak seasons and other high-demand times throughout the year. The partnership also makes the expansion of the park’s trail system possible, with potential access to the Gulf Oak Ridge Trail from Orange Beach’s Wildlife Center. Finally, the partnership now allows Orange Beach residents, as defined by the city, to park for no charge at paid beach access parking areas operated by Gulf State Park.