Gulf Shores Looks To Phase 2 Of Beach Walking District

Gulf Shores is considering a $337,306 contract with Volkert, Inc. to design phase 2 of its Beach Walking District sidewalk and pedestrian improvement plan, the OBA reported. Phase 1 provided new roadway, parking, a sidewalk, landscaping, lighting and stormwater infrastructure for the four blocks surrounding the intersection of Highways 59 and 182. Phase 2 will continue those improvements along East First Avenue between East Second and East Third streets. The Volkert proposal is approximately 13% of the total project cost and includes environmental documentation and permitting, engineering/construction plans, geotechnical services, utility conflict coordination, utility conflict design and construction engineering and inspection. Work on the Beach Walking District is one of the city’s five action items in its Vision 2025 Strategic Plan. The plan’s key goals include quaint, landscaped boulevards; a beachfront that is pedestrian and bike friendly with access to beachfront dining, shopping and entertainment; and taking advantage of the public beach.