Alabama 59 is in the process of undergoing some changes in advance of the massive influx of visitors in town for spring break.
The City of Gulf Shores and the Alabama Department of Transportation are working in conjunction to erect an eight-foot wide multi-use path on northbound and southbound sides of Alabama 59, specifically between 20th Avenue and Alabama 182.
The highway is one of the major transportation arteries of town, and its facelift provides pedestrians and bikers much-needed real estate for navigating their way to many of the restaurants and businesses that line Gulf Shores Parkway.
Until this project, we had very narrow sidewalks that lined Gulf Shores Parkway. This leads to an immense amount of congestion and provided many dangers for those trying to take in our beautiful city. The project will be start south and make its way north. By working on both sides at once, the hope is that traffic won’t be completely log-jammed during construction.
One hang-up had been negotiating the removal of portions of driveways from some homes and businesses that lined the streets. Once completed, the path will encourage walkers and bikers to explore more of the city. Space is already at a premium, so the fewer cars will lead to less noise pollution and traffic. The goal is to get the project completed before peak spring break season, which can turn our streets into a zoo from mid-march to early may.
Speaking of which, we’re excited to host those out-of-towners in 2016. Spring Break is a time of year when Gulf Shores and Orange Beach get a chance to shine, and this year promises to be no different. Make sure to check out as many bars, restaurants, shops and art exhibits you can squeeze in during your week in town.
And if you get time, stop by and ask for me, Kris Powell, at Century 21 Meyer Real Estate when the charm of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach makes up your mind on moving down here.
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