Blog Layout

City of Orange Beach Property Purchased Between 2011 and 2024

R. Ken Cooper • August 8, 2024

From Wildlife Centers to Fire Stations: Inside Orange Beach's $57.7 Million Land Investments

City of Orange Beach Property Purchased Between 2011 and 2024

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Over the past thirteen years, the City of Orange Beach has made substantial investments in land acquisitions, securing approximately 215.26 acres across 25 parcels. These properties, with a combined value of $57.7 million, have been designated for various uses, including community services, public facilities, and future developments. The city's total real estate holdings now total $1.88 billion.


Purchases include the site for the new Orange Beach Wildlife Center, Fire Station 3 on Canal Road, and the Romar Beach Mini Warehouses. Other notable acquisitions involve properties slated for future medical complex expansions, community gardens, and recreational facilities like the City Beach Property. Each of these purchases aligns with the city's long-term vision of providing high-quality services and maintaining a well-planned urban environment. 


Below is a list of properties purchased by the city since 2011. The list also has information about what the property is being used for, or what is currently being planned for the property. Some of the parcels don’t yet have plans. These parcels are also noted.


City of Orange Beach Properties Purchased Since 2011:

Orange Beach Wildlife Center

Orange Beach Wildlife Center

The City purchased 10 acres referred to as the Wade Property in June 2015. This is the site of the new Orange Beach Wildlife Center and is expected to be completed in the near future. This property has an appraised value of $1,756,400.

Fire Station 3 Property

Fire Station 3

The City purchased 15 acres on Canal Road at Powerline Road in December 2022. This is where they built Fire Station 3. The property appraised for $3,384,900.

Romar Beach Mini Warehouses

Romar Beach Mini Warehouses

The City purchased the Romar Beach Mini Warehouses on Sweetwater Drive in February 2023, including 2.00 acres. The property has an appraised value of $1,444,800.

Orange Beach Glamping

Youngs Hideaway Glamping Site

The City purchased 15.15 acres on Perdido Beach Blvd. in May 2014, it currently has a value of $1,964,100. The City is currently leasing out the property to a Glamping company and receiving a royalty on the rentals.

Old Whitney Bank Property

Old Whitney Bank Building

The City purchased the old Whitney Bank Building in May 2014 with 0.98 acres on Canal Road, with a value of $1,103,200. The City was using the property as the Finance Dept. but has vacated the building and hopes to use it as the expanded medical complex. 


Whitney Adjacent Parcel

The City purchased 0.92 acres on Canal Road in January 2020, with a value of $651,600. The City is currently using the property for overflow parking, but plans to make it part of a medical complex. 


25930 Bonito Ave.

The City purchased 0.25 acres on Bonito Avenue in November 2021, with a value of $80,600. The City plans on using this property for the expansion of medical services.

White Avenue Property in Orange Beach

White Ave. Property

The City purchased 2.09 acres on White Avenue in July 2019, with a value of $241,300. The City has this as a backup property for the Dog Park if it has to be moved.

Orange Beach Community Garden

New Community Garden site

The City purchased 2.0 acres of property just south of the Orange Beach Elementary School in November 2017. This property has a value of 819,000 and is currently being used as a community garden.

Orange Beach Rec Center Campus Property

2823 Walker Lane

The City purchased 0.24 acres of property on Walker Lane in February 2019 with a value of $90,200. The property is slated for future use.


Orange Beach Community Center

The Orange Beach Community Center sits on 2.87 acres of land and has a value of $1,912,900. This property was acquired in July 2022 as a donation from the Orange Beach Community Center Corporation.


Contorno Property

The City purchased 14.06 acres of property on Canal Road just east of Sam’s Stop & Shop that has a value of $1,270,600. This property was purchased in July 2024 and is slated for future use.

Nancy Lane Properties

4611 Nancy Lane

The City purchased 0.25 acres of property on Nancy Lane in March 2017 that has a value of $105,900. This property is slated for future use.


4613 Nancy Lane

The City purchased 0.23 acres of property on Nancy Lane in July 2019 that has a value of $95,300. This property is slated for future use.


26319 Nancy Lane

The City purchased 0.84 acres of property on Nancy Lane in December 2019 that has a value of $1,143,500. This property is slated for future use.

The City purchased 1.47 acres of property on East Canal Road

East Canal Road Property I

The City purchased 1.47 acres of property on East Canal Road in July 2018 with a value of $130,000. The property is slated for the expansion of the justice center.

East Canal Road Property II
The City purchased 6.31 acres of land in December 2017 with a value of $3,611,300. This property is north of the Police Station and is covered in oak trees.

East Canal Road Property II

The City purchased 6.31 acres of land in December 2017 with a value of $3,611,300. This property is north of the Police Station and is covered in oak trees.

East Canal Road Property III
The City purchased 0.91 acres of land with a value of $774,500 in September 2023 on the east side of the substation on Canal Road. There is a white, brick house on the property. The property is slated for public use.

East Canal Road Property III

The City purchased 0.91 acres of land with a value of $774,500 in September 2023 on the east side of the substation on Canal Road. There is a white, brick house on the property. The property is slated for public use.

East Canal Road Property IV
The City purchased 2.75 acres of land with a value of $609,500 in June 2022. This parcel is across from the Kid’s Park and is slated for future use.

East Canal Road Property IV

The City purchased 2.75 acres of land with a value of $609,500 in June 2022. This parcel is across from the Kid’s Park and is slated for future use.

East Canal Road Property V
The City purchased 10.35 acres of land with a value of $1,332,400 across the road from the Coastal Art Center. This property is slated for future use.

East Canal Road Property V

The City purchased 10.35 acres of land with a value of $1,332,400 across the road from the Coastal Art Center. This property is slated for future use.

East Canal Road Property VI
The City purchased 1.42 acres with a value of $216,900 in October 2019. This parcel is across from the Library and Senior Center, next to the substation. This property is slated for future use.

East Canal Road Property VI

The City purchased 1.42 acres with a value of $216,900 in October 2019. This parcel is across from the Library and Senior Center, next to the substation. This property is slated for future use.

Russian Road Property
The City purchased 18 acres of land on Russian Road in July 2021with a value of $414,000. This parcel is slated for future use.

Russian Road Property

The City purchased 18 acres of land on Russian Road in July 2021with a value of $414,000. This parcel is slated for future use.

Orange Beach Public Works

Public Works Property

The City purchased 19 acres on Roscoe Road in July 2019 for Public Works. The Public Works Property on Roscoe Road has a value of $4,483,800 and serves as the operational hub for the city's public works department. This facility houses essential equipment, vehicles, and materials needed for maintaining and improving the city's infrastructure. Activities at the property include road maintenance, waste management, water and sewer services, and various municipal projects aimed at enhancing community services and public safety. The site is crucial for coordinating efforts to keep Orange Beach's public spaces, utilities, and services running efficiently, contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life for residents and visitors.

Orange Beach Shooting Range Property

Shooting Range Property

The City purchased 81 acres on Russian Road in April 2019 with a value of $366,200. This property is now a Shooting Range. The Shooting Range Property is a designated area for firearms training and recreational shooting. The Shooting Range is open every other Saturday to the public. It has 5 trap and skeet stations. The range is operated under strict safety regulations, the facility offers a controlled environment for law enforcement training, competitive shooting events, and public use. It features various shooting lanes, targets, and safety equipment to accommodate different types of firearms practice. The property is also used for educational purposes, including firearm safety courses and marksmanship training, ensuring that both experienced shooters and beginners have access to the resources they need to practice responsibly and safely.

Orange Beach City Beach Property

City Beach Property

The City purchased 4.22 acres of beachfront property in June 2021, This property is located next to CoastAL Restaurant and has a value of $24,177,900. The beachfront property is used for a Resident's Beach.

Orange Beach Event Center

Orange Beach Event Center

The City purchased the Orange Beach Event Center with 2.95 acres of land in April 2011. The Event Center has a value of $5,569,300. The Orange Beach Event Center is a versatile facility that hosts a wide range of events and gatherings. The center features spacious meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and banquet facilities, making it an ideal venue for conferences, trade shows, weddings, and community events. Equipped with modern amenities and ample parking, it serves as a hub for both local and regional activities, offering a welcoming space for social, corporate, and recreational purposes throughout the year.

Below is a list of the above properties including the size, current value and date purchased.

Below is a list of the above properties including the size, current value and date purchased.

Below is a list of the above properties including the size, current value and date purchased.

Share this article w/ Friends...

Camp Under the Stars on the Beach at the Gulf Shores State Park
By OBA Staff March 30, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf State Park invites families to the Spring Beach Campout. The cost is $45 per tent for up to four people, with additional guests at $5 each. A parking pass is included. This family-friendly event is open to adults and children of all ages. Participants under 18 must have a responsible adult with them. Families should bring their own food, nonalcoholic beverages, and camping essentials. All drinks must be in non-glass containers.
American Red Cross Hosts Blood Drive at Orange Beach City Hall
By OBA Staff March 30, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Orange Beach City Hall to help meet the ongoing need for blood donations. The drive will take place on Monday, March 31, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 4099 Orange Beach Blvd.
The City of Foley is Rebuilding its Urban Tree Canopy
By Guy Busby March 29, 2025
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Foley is making progress in bringing back the trees lost nearly five years ago when Hurricane Sally hit the area. City crews have started replanting trees to help restore the urban forest.
Elberta German Sausage Festival Happening Today
By OBA Staff March 29, 2025
Elberta, Ala. – (OBA) – The Elberta German Sausage Festival kicks off today, March 29th at 8 am and runs until 5 pm. The Festival takes place at Elberta Town Park. This biannual event, held every March and October, celebrates Elberta's German heritage and supports the Elberta Volunteer Fire Department.
Orange Beach Honors Longtime Coach David McLain at During Opening Day Celebrations
By R. Ken Cooper March 28, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach kicked off its 2025 Baseball and Softball Season with a heartfelt tribute to longtime volunteer coach, David McLain. During the opening ceremony, Mayor Tony Kennon and the City Council surprised Coach McLain by dedicating Field 5 in his honor. Unaware of the plan, McLain read aloud the plaque's inscription at the center of Field 5, realizing the field now bears his name. He then threw the ceremonial first pitch, marking the official start of the season.
Lake Shelby Park from Google Maps
By OBA Staff March 28, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The Gulf Shores & Orange Beach community will be celebrating this weekend at the inaugural L.O.L. Festival (Love Our Locals). The Festival kicks off today at the Gulf State Park’s Lake Shelby Picnic Area. This three-day event is dedicated to honoring local artists, musicians, food vendors, and businesses that make the coastal community thrive.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich presents author Colleen Coble with the key to the city.
By Guy Busby March 28, 2025
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Foley recently honored celebrated Christian author Colleen Coble during a special presentation hosted by the Foley Public Library. Coble, along with her co-author Rick Acker, participated in a series of events organized by the library. On Saturday, March 22, the Foley Civic Center hosted a book launch, author talk, and signing to celebrate the release of their latest novel, Ambush, which debuted on March 4.
Velcro Pygmies Inspire Career Exploration in Gulf Shores
By OBA Staff March 27, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The Velcro Pygmies, known for their dynamic performances, will entertain and engage students in an interactive experience that promotes career exploration. This initiative offers insights into various industries, including music, production, and business, helping students discover their passions and potential career paths.
Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Announce C.A.K.E. Day
By OBA Staff March 27, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Mayors from Orange Beach and Gulf Shores have declared May 10, 2025, as C.A.K.E. Day. The event supports young entrepreneurs in starting and running their own businesses in the local community. C.A.K.E. stands for "Creating And Keeping Enterprises." The program teaches students how to create and manage a business, including planning, marketing, and customer service skills.
Hot Air Balloons to Fill Foley Skies During Annual Festival
By OBA Staff March 27, 2025
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will return to Foley in the first weekend of May, bringing three days of live music, family activities, and hot air balloon displays to the area. Presented by Columbia Southern University, the annual event remains free to the public and continues to draw thousands of visitors from across the region.
Show More
Share by: