Work on the new $46 million sports complex in Orange Beach is well underway thanks to Sports Turf Company and Bear General Contractors.

A specialty sports construction and surfacing company, STC also recently completed turf field projects at Spanish Fort and Daphne High Schools ahead of the 2024 football season. The Orange Beach project is expected to be complete before the Mako football team’s scheduled season opener against Elberta on Aug. 22.

Along with the competition field, an eight-lane track and indoor practice field are also set to be featured amenities.

“We are excited to give the Makos the athletic facility they deserve,” Sports Turf Company President Todd Wiggins said in a Feb. 6 release. “This facility will feature high-performing athletic surfaces that will serve student-athletes at both the middle and high level, in a variety of different sports.”

Both the stadium and indoor practice fields are being constructed with AstroTurf’s Rhino Blend turf system, Brock shock pad and organic BrockFILL infill.

“By combining slit film and High Micron fibers into one system, AstroTurf’s Rhino Blend system offers both durability and aesthetics,” the release says. “The Brock shock pad and BrockFILL are specifically engineered to optimize safety for athletes during impacts to the surface. BrockFILL is a highly engineered wood particle infill specifically designed to improve traction and reduce artificial turf heat.”

Rekortan M synthetic track surfacing was the style of choice for the eight-lane running track, with room for field events, thanks to its World Athletics-certified, dual-layer scheme.

“This system delivers force reduction, ensures stability for predictable footing and is sealed to protect against moisture intrusion,” it says.

Follow @GCMSportsAL on social media for more sights from the construction site.