For Immediate Release

August 24, 2005
Contact: Stacy Atkins, Director of Marketing, The Wharf
(251) 974-8604

The Wharf Begins removal of derelict barges

 

Orange Beach, AL – The Wharf, located at the foot of the Foley Beach Express on the island in Orange Beach, has begun the removal of two derelict barges that have been abandoned just west of the Foley Beach Express for many years. The Wharf’s commitment to positioning the Waterway as the next great waterfront destination along the Gulf Coast has led them to take the lead in the removal of these derelict vessels and will make the Waterway a safer and better place for residents, visitors alike. These barges have been a constant source of danger for both commercial and recreational vessels, with a fatality having occurred at the site last year. The labor-intensive dismantling and demolition of these barges will take just over two weeks at a significant cost yet will be well worth the effort in improving this stretch of the Waterway.

The Wharf contracted M & N of Alabama, LLC, a family-run marine construction and dredging business out of Magnolia Springs, to undertake this process. Dismantling each vessel piece by piece using a 120 ton crane and a 300 Kamotsu Track Hoe and Hydraulic Shear, M & N will haul the scrap metal to a scrap yard for disposal.

For more information about The Wharf, call 251-980-4444 or visit www.thewharfal.com.

 About The Wharf

The Wharf will be a place to connect, and re-connect, with family and friends. National retailers, as well as locally-owned stores and restaurants, including a Rave Motion Picture Theater, will be located in an airy, upscale village atmosphere along Main Street, located on first and second floor levels. The south’s largest Ferris wheel will be the centerpiece of this festive atmosphere, offering visitors a lingering glimpse of The Wharf and its surroundings. Colorful shops, restaurants and café’s will also line the lively Boardwalk, which will run the length of the world-class marina – nearly a half mile long.

The Amphitheater at the Wharf will host concerts, celebrations and special events of all kinds. An internationally acclaimed destination spa will offer first-class services, while complementing the stylish and upscale residential and resort accommodations found throughout the 220 acre development. Developed by AIG Baker Shopping Center Properties, L.L.C., out of Birmingham, Alabama, The Wharf is slated to open its first phase of retail and entertainment in the late spring/early summer of 2006.

About AIG Baker

AIG Baker Shopping Center Properties, L.L.C., is a privately held entrepreneurial-driven company, headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, that specializes in ground-up development, acquisition, leasing and management of retail centers nationwide. Backed by American International Group (AIG), one of the world’s largest insurance companies, AIG Baker has developed more than 20 million square feet in 17 states since 1993. Subsidiaries of AIG Baker include AIG Baker Real Estate, L.L.C., AIG Baker Management, L.L.C., AIG Baker Development, L.L.C., and Pinnacle Communities L.L.C.

###