Enhancements to Daphne's Bayfront Park are nearing completion.

Daphne City Development Executive Director Troy Strunk gave the mayor and council an update on the project during the Nov. 6 regular city council meeting. Strunk stated the contractor would be wrapping up at the end of the month. The final wearing course (roadway surface) will be applied to Bayfront Drive the week of Thanksgiving.

The final details like irrigation, landscaping, brick pavers and lighting are also underway.

Strunk said he believes the park will reopen by the end of the year around Christmas.

Phase two of the project, which includes a parking lot down by the proposed amphitheater area, is also in the works. Strunk said they have submitted preliminary plans to the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. They are in the permitting and public viewing process. He said he hopes to receive approval on that soon.

Bayfront Park has been undergoing an extensive renovation that includes resurfacing Bayfront Park Drive, utility upgrades, street parking and sidewalks.

Future additions to the park include an amphitheater, pier extension and boardwalk along the bay. The projects are funded thanks to $7.2 million in GoMESA funding.