For Immediate Release
February 22, 2006
Contact: Stacy Atkins, Director of Marketing, The Wharf
(251) 974-8604
The Southeast’s Largest Ferris Wheel Arrives at The Wharf
Orange Beach, AL - Orange Beach, Alabama will soon be able to boast a unique, one-of-a kind icon that is sure to become a local landmark for generations to come. In early March, the installation of a 112-foot Ferris wheel will be complete at The Wharf, the newest and most exciting resort development along the Gulf Coast. A First Ride fundraising event is scheduled for the week before the Memorial Day weekend, with a corporate sponsorship event designed to raise money and awareness for a local charity. City and county officials, local retailers, and other distinguished guests will be on hand to participate in this truly unique event.
The Wharf’s Ferris wheel, the largest in the southeast surpassing ‘wheels’ in New Orleans, Birmingham and Myrtle Beach, was created by Italy’s Technical Park, the famed amusement ride manufacturer. The wheel’s design, inspired by The Wharf and the surrounding waterways, integrates a wood-grained, nautical steering wheel (or ship’s helm) and will be bordered by thousands of clear lights. The installation process will take approximately three weeks. Skilled professionals from Technical Park will be on hand during the erection process, and will stay on to conduct intensive training sessions with the wheel’s operators and maintenance staff.
Located in the plaza next to the Rave Movie Theater at the foot of the Foley Beach Express, The Wharf’s wheel will soar high above the 220-acre Wharf, offering stunning views of the resort, the Waterway, Wolf’s Bay and even the Gulf of Mexico. With a capacity of 140 people in 24 individual gondolas (one which is handicapped-accessible), The Wharf’s wheel will surely become a favorite activity of locals and visitors alike for many years to come.
A classic for years at festivals, fairs and exhibitions, the original Ferris wheel was invented for the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago by George Ferris. Enthusiasts of all ages have come to love the freedom of gliding silently through the air as the earth slowly melts away – it’s an experience few forget as children and many seek to recapture as adults.
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 Aveda Lifestyle Resort 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.###