ORANGE BEACH — This summer, Baldwin County residents and tourists will see major changes on Main Street at The Wharf.

With the current retail and office space on Main Street at 100% occupancy, a record high for the development, a large-scale expansion project will add 35,000 square feet of retail and office space. The Main Street expansion will also add more green space and an outdoor stage.

"This newest expansion for The Wharf will bring additional opportunities for existing tenants and our community," said Jason Clabo, general manager of The Wharf. "This development creates interest and brings more visitors, events and businesses to the property and area. It is great to have this need and desire for more businesses to be here and we plan to offer exciting happenings in this addition coming soon."

Clabo said the drawings and permits have been secured and a groundbreaking will be announced soon.

Culver's included in expansion

Last year, The Wharf completed The Wharf Storage, a state-of-the-art facility with boat and RV storage with climate-controlled and non-controlled options. Clabo said the facility has been well received and has exceeded expectations.

Another area that has received upgrades is The Wharf Marina. The outside docks have been replaced and will support larger boats and yachts and a new high-speed fuel dock will open soon that will fuel vessels in half the time. A crane was also installed that will be utilized for the sportfishing tournaments.

Another addition coming to The Wharf property is Culver's Restaurant, known for its ButterBurgers and fried cheese curds. The brand is set to build a location along Canal Road.

"We are actively looking for options for a full-size grocery store to place in one of our out-parcel areas," Clabo said.

Bama Bayou rebrands as The Wharf Landing

In August 2022, The Wharf announced the purchase of the property across the Intracoastal Waterway, formerly known as Bama Bayou. The Wharf owner, Art Favre acquired a little over 100 acres.

According to Clabo, the property will be re-branded as The Wharf Landing.

"Meetings are being held with several different developers on ideas that could come to life for the property," Clabo said. "This will be a resort destination that compliments the offerings at The Wharf."