Update on Waveland's Up and Coming

Waveland - June 2026

Waveland is seeing a lot of economic growth, from new restaurants and retail to housing, tourism, and community events. These projects paint a picture of a city that continues to grow while maintaining its small-town character. Here’s a look at what’s up and coming in Waveland.

- By Kirby Rhodes

 Several weeks ago, Waveland Mayor Jay Trapani announced that Chick-fil-A will be opening a new location on the corner of Highways 90 and 603, the former site of Barnacle Bill’s Water Park. While AI-generated renderings have circulated online, no official site plans have been released by Chick-fil-A or the developer. Construction is expected to begin in August, with an anticipated opening date sometime in February of 2027.
 

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Additionally, the old Rite Aid building is currently being refurbished. The owner has big plans for this location; more details to come soon. Residents are also keeping an eye on several long-awaited public improvement projects.
 

 
One of the most anticipated projects is the Garfield Ladner Pier improvements. Construction has been under contract since the notice to proceed was issued on February 4, 2026. While progress has been slower than many residents hoped, work is underway, and city officials expect more visible activity in the coming months.
 
The dining scene in Waveland continues to grow as well. Thomas Genin is opening a new restaurant on Coleman, with a target opening date of 4th of July. The new restaurant will be located at the same location as the original Rickey’s.
 

 
The old Waveland shopping center will see some development soon too. Work is still underway to address the gas tanks underground. However, the eastern half of the property will soon be home to an RV & Boat storage facility.
 
Beyond commercial development, residential growth remains a major part of Waveland's momentum. Several residential developers are actively building new homes around the city. Mayor Trapani said, “Developers are very interested in Waveland. We (Waveland) are doing very well economically.”

 
Renovations on what was previously the Gulf Grove Apartments are almost complete. Residents of the complex were forced to vacate in 2024 after the apartments were declared uninhabitable. The complex on Waveland Avenue was repurchased by a previous owner with plans for a full renovation. The newly minted Park West Apartments may be available to rent as early as late summer at the market rate.
 
Construction of the Marriott hotel on Highway 90, west of Walmart, should be complete this summer as well. This hotel will be a combination of short-stay rooms, the Fairfield Inn & Suites side, and long-term stays, the TownePlace Suites side. Each section will have 55 rooms, with amenities such as a pool, dining area, bar, gym and laundry facilities. Full details can be found in this article from the Shoofly Magazine archives: The Hospitality City Welcomes a New Mariott Hotel.
 

 
From new restaurants and housing developments to infrastructure improvements and community events, Waveland continues to build on its reputation as one of the Gulf Coast's fastest-growing communities. While many of these projects are still taking shape, residents can expect to see continued progress throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
 

 
Every second Friday of the month, Food Truck Friday is held on the Towne Green 5-8 pm. The next event is scheduled for June 12. Follow Waveland Food Truck Friday for the lineup and updates.
 
Mark your calendar for November 21, when Waveland’s annual Christmas Bazaar will take over Coleman. More details to come soon.
 

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