Spanish Fort Buys 144 Acres For Park

SPANISH FORT, Ala — The City of Spanish Fort has purchased 144 acres just south of Bay Minette Creek along Highway 225, WKRG reported. The $8.5-million purchase was made with funding awarded last year through the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA). Mayor Mike McMillan said the grant has allowed the city to invest in the property, with plans to build a public park and nature center with views west toward the downtown Mobile skyline. Before plans can be drawn and work can begin, a historical survey will take place at the site, along with other steps to preserve history. Although the property is not easy to access, there will be “walking trails, picnic areas, a fishing pier [and] kayak rentals,” McMillan said. It will serve not only “Spanish Fort, but Baldwin County, because this is big,” he added.