New Auburn research center in Orange Beach takes step forward

A project between Auburn University and the City of Orange Beach has been in the works for more than a decade but is now closer to becoming a reality.

The planned research facility was first discussed in 2011 but with funding recently secured, the ground lease agreement has officially been authorized by the Orange Beach city council.

Keep reading to find out more about Auburn’s plans at the facility + when it should be operational.

Gulf Coast Engineering Research Station

Orange Beach and Auburn began discussing the concept of the facility in 2011. Through the creation of this facility, Auburn University said it will engage in fundamental and applied research of critical importance to the Gulf Coast region.

The station will be dedicated to addressing the goals and objectives set in the 2016 Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council Comprehensive Plan. It is expected to focus on three broad coastal research areas including:

• Water quality protection and restoration
• Protection, restoration + conservation of habitat and living resources
• Enhancing coastal community sustainability

It will also provide residents and visitors of the area a better understanding of the natural, historical, and environmental resources of the region. The facility is expected to have community outreach programs along with other educational opportunities.

“This facility will expand collaborative opportunities with our friends and partners with the City of Orange Beach, the University of South Alabama and other regional institutions and industries as we work together to study, develop and implement infrastructure resiliency, environmental protection, restoration, sustainability and conservation actions that will continue to improve the quality of life and enhance economic advancement in this vital area to our state.”

~ Steve Taylor, Senior Vice President for Research & Economic Development at Auburn’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering

Construction + funding

The building, which is being constructed on Terry Cove off Perdido Bay with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, will consist of laboratory, office and collaborative meeting spaces.

Funding for the station has been secured through the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council in cooperation with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The city initially asked for $9 million for the project’s first phase. An estimated cost for the entire facility has not yet been released.

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