For the past eight years the program has been conducted from the shores of Waterfront Park on Canal Road.  This year, however, a new permanent site is being prepared as the summer Sail Camp relocates to an official home just west of the former location.  Parks & Recreation Office Manager and Sail Camp Coordinator Jeanne Fitzgibbons noted, “After our 2011 program ended, we approached the City Council during the budget process and asked that waterfront property behind the Orange Beach Library be designated as a permanent site for Sail Camp.  The Council approved the site and funding request and work is underway to have the area ready for camp this summer”.  Due to the popularity of the program and with the intent of building toward more water related sports activities, the new building is being referred to as the Wind & Water Learning Center and will become a unique educational center for the City of Orange Beach.  In recent years, the weekly camps fill up quickly so be sure to reserve your child or grandchild’s spot immediately and watch the progress on the construction.

 

Fitzgibbons added, “The grounds will be ready for use this summer as counselors and staff work from a temporary trailer and plan to begin construction on a permanent building to house the program after camp ends.   We’re seeking supporters to help with the construction costs and donations to the city for this effort are tax deductible”.  The work on the site is being conducted by the City’s Public Works Department, which is helping to keep the costs as low as possible. The parking lot has been improved with a new entrance at the Orange Beach Public Library and walkway to the site on Wolf Bay.  “It’s a gorgeous piece of property and perfectly suited for our needs with a small beach and big oaks for shade.  When the building is complete, it will house equipment for Sail Camp and allow us to begin to expand our course offerings beyond the summer season and also look at other water programs that we can offer the community such as kayaking”. 

 

City Administrator Ken Grimes noted, “The popularity of Sail Camp in Orange Beach is evidence that our water related education opportunities are plentiful.  Many sports, hobbies and professions in our community depend on the water and being on an island, what better place to teach people how to enjoy all of this while learning to be safe at the same time.  The city is proud to bring this new facility into our mix for all to enjoy. It will be a hidden gem and we need everyone to spread the word and get involved if this is your interest!” 

 

If you would like to be a part of making the Wind & Water Learning Center a reality, the Parks & Recreation Department would like to talk to you.  Please contact Jeanne Fitzgibbons at 251-981-1524 or jfitz@cityoforangebeach.com