Little Lagoon Pass is a connector between Gulf Shores and Little Lagoon. It is a popular public fishing spot, but keeping it passable is quite a task because it is constantly filling with sand.
So the state has plans to build a new bridge—a bigger bridge to the tune of 12-14 million dollars. This new bridge will hopefully assist in the never-ending dredging task that at this point is the only way to keep a free flow through the pass.
A division engineer from the Alabama Department of Transportation, Vince Calametti stated, “The new bridge will be wider and improved navigation will be a by-product.” He made mention that it’s not the state’s intention to keep the inlet clear so people who like to boat or kayak are free to travel through. Rather, the state has the responsibility to maintain good water quality and water transfer at Little Lagoon Pass.
That job is done by the city of Gulf Shores working with the state in a joint effort. Mark Acreman, the Gulf Shores Public Works Director, explains that the city performs a weekly inlet survey to ensure the water flow at the pass. The state receives a report from the city when there is a problem.
The state also has plans to extend the jetties and redo the inlet which will in theory improve maintenance. The Mayor of Gulf Shores, Robert Craft, admits that correcting the sand problem at the pass will be a challenge from an engineering perspective. He welcomes the opportunity for this to be done simultaneously by commenting, "If there is a way to design and engineer it so the pass wouldn’t fill up with sand, I say let’s do it when the new bridge is being built."
Being willing to work with the state on big plans to improve our own Little Lagoon Pass is a good example of the importance of community that is Gulf Shores. It's a great place to make your home or your "get-away from home!" I have extensive knowledge of the Orange Beach/Gulf Shores area and enjoy living here. Give me a call today, Lance Steffek: 251-981-2225 or contact me online.
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