GULF SHORES — A new pedestrian crosswalk will be built at the intersection of 12th Avenue and Hwy 59 as the use of services from Kadre Engineering were approved at a city council meeting on Sept 23.

“We currently only have pedestrian crossing going north and south across 12th,” said Clint Colvin, Gulf Shores’ capital projects director, “but we don’t have a crossing across 59 at this location.”

According to the city’s proposal, Kadre Engineering will provide the preparation of right-of-way and topographic survey, traffic signal design modifications, ALDOT permitting and construction plans. A new ADA ramp for the crosswalk will also be added according to ALDOT standards.

The project will use city street resurfacing funds to cover the cost, which Kadre Engineering says will not exceed $30,720.

Colvin said there were several requests received from citizens who live in the neighborhoods surrounding the area. The new crosswalk will be located between Nonna's Pizza and Zooland Tiki Golf allowing pedestrians to cross Hwy 59 in a much safer way.

One resident spoke at a recent work session meeting where the proposal was presented, saying she had submitted a request for this project and “just wanted to say thank you” to city council.

Mayor Robert Craft said he would like to see if upgrades to other pedestrian walkways in Gulf Shores could be added that would enhance the safety of the crosswalks, such as flashing lights and road signs. He said this is “the other opportunity” the contract with Kadre Engineering allows.

“The more we can get crossings for these busy highways, particularly the Beach Boulevard area, the better off we’ll be,” Craft said.