New Laguna Cove Nature Park project moving forward with $2.6M bid
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Gulf Shores is moving forward with its restoration plans for Little Lagoon which includes a new nature park called Laguna Cove.
The city has unanimously approved a $2.6 million bid which includes construction from Asphalt Services and design work done by Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood.
This project will transform a 53-acre tract into a space for conservation and passive outdoor recreation. Laguna Cove Nature Park will include:
- Restoration of wetlands and critical habitats
- Public restrooms
- Low-impact parking
- Kayaking, birding, and interpretive boardwalks
The project is expected to be complete by the end of summer 2026.
“Laguna Cove represents our commitment to preserving Gulf Shores’ natural beauty while creating spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. By protecting this land from future development, we’re ensuring that its unique habitats and recreational opportunities will be here for generations to come.”
Robert Craft, Gulf Shores mayor
The project is fully funded by a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) grant from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which also covered the land purchase in 2017.
Laguna Cove restoration project
In 2019, the City received $4.4M in Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) funding from ADCNR for acquiring and protecting 53 undeveloped acres of property on the south shore of Little Lagoon near the west end of W. Beach Blvd.
Gulf Shores hopes to preserve this natural area, preventing future development and ensuring it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.
Last year, the city requested and was awarded an additional $2 million in funding from ADCNR due to receiving bids in excess of available funds, bringing the total budget to $6.4M.
Project Facts:
- To conserve and restore natural resources and provide limited outdoor recreation opportunities
- The property has 6100 feet of shoreline on Little Lagoon, and significant areas of critical wetlands and dune habitats
- These areas will be protected and restored in coordination with State and Federal agencies as part of the implementation plan with ADCNR
- Passive recreational uses will include birding, kayaking, nature trails, wetland boardwalks, and interpretive educational areas
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