This unique facility is Alabama’s first shelter capable of withstanding wind gusts up to 200 miles per hour. Centrally located in Baldwin County, the coliseum can accommodate 5,000 people short-term during hurricanes or tornadoes and up to 1,900 people for long-term shelter. Originally designed as a public fairgrounds facility, it is the first of its kind and, at the time, represented the largest project ever funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Equipped to serve as a communications hub during major storms, the facility features underground utilities and large backup generators to ensure continuous operation. The 40,000-square-foot coliseum doubles as an expo hall and large event venue, complete with office spaces and a commercial kitchen with walk-in coolers for bulk storage. Adjacent to the coliseum is a 79,000-square-foot arena with 3,500 seats, engineered to withstand winds up to 140 mph. This project was funded through a unique partnership, combining resources from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation program, the Baldwin County Commission, and the Baldwin County Cattle and Fair Association.