Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday, during a press conference, announced close to $28 million for 16 projects, which are supported by funds from the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 (GOMESA). These projects focus on land acquisitions, research and recreational access improvements, which are included in the original intent and authorized use of GOMESA funds.
“I am thrilled to be joined today by many of our local leaders to announce 16 projects being funded by GOMESA,” Governor Ivey said. “Working closely with Commissioner Blankenship and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the almost $28 million will fund projects to beautify this region and ensure safety of those who enjoy the rivers and bay of South Alabama.”
GOMESA provides for the four Gulf Producing States and their eligible coastal political subdivisions (CPS) to share 37.5 percent of qualified revenues from Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil and gas leases issued since December 20, 2006. With approval from the Governor’s Office, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources administers the funds.
Projects and Comments from Officials:
Middleton Causeway Boat Ramp Improvements; $150,000
Administration of GOMESA; $214,220
Gulf State Park Recreational Access Enhancements; $4,000,000
“Several of these projects will increase boating access and outdoor recreational experiences in coastal Alabama,” ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship said. “The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources appreciates Governor Ivey’s commitment to providing quality outdoor recreational opportunities that are so important to the economy and quality of life in Alabama.”
Equipment and Supplies for Monitoring Harmful Algal Blooms Gulf Coastal Shellfish Growing Areas; $19,849.92
State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said, “The items purchased with GOMESA funding enable the Department of Public Health to conduct much faster testing of oysters and oyster growing waters for the presence or absence of toxins associated with harmful algal blooms. Having the results available within hours instead of days allows the Department to better protect the public’s health by either withholding oysters from sale or, if no toxins are present, allowing Alabama’s oyster harvesters to sell their product. The Department appreciates the support from GOMESA that allows this faster testing method to be used in Alabama.”
Install and Maintenance of a Stream Gage at Fish River on Baldwin County 32; $87,250.00
Baldwin County Intracoastal Waterway Boat Ramp Acquisition; $7,500,000
Baldwin County Commissioner Charles “Skip” Gruber: “On behalf of the Baldwin County Commission, it gives me great pleasure to announce the receiving of the funds for our boat launch project on the Intercoastal waterway. This project is one that will help the citizens of Alabama get on to the waters of our state.”
Marine Debris and Shoreline Cleanup Program; $1,314,500
Coastal Alabama Watershed Enhancement Project; $1,500,000
State Forester Rick Oates: “Through this grant, the Alabama Forestry Commission will be better able to assist landowners manage their forests within watersheds that impact the Gulf of Mexico. Better managed forests reduce the amount of sediment and other pollutants that enter the Gulf, thereby creating a healthier environment and cleaner Gulf waters.”
Sediment Geochemistry Investigation of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta; $216,300
Sediment Characterization and Geochemistry Distribution within Mobile Bay and Mississippi Sound, Baldwin and Mobile Counties, Alabama; $755,304
State Geologist Dr. Berry “Nick” Tew, Jr.: “The Geological Survey of Alabama is honored to have been selected to receive GOMESA funding to conduct these two important companion projects, which will significantly further our present understanding of sediment distribution and characteristics in Mobile Bay, Mississippi Sound, and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and the impacts that sediments have on water quality and ecosystem functions and services. The mapping of sediment distribution and the collection and analysis of sediment samples will provide a comprehensive set of data that supports restoration efforts, fisheries management, and other activities and requirements.”
Bayou La Batre Boat Ramp; $250,000
Bayou La Batre Mayor Terry Downey: “We are very appreciative of the GOMESA project for the City of Bayou La Batre. We can ensure the installment of the new boat ramps will benefit, not only the community, but the surrounding areas for sports fisherman and commercial fisherman that use these ramps for their business.”
Dauphin Island Land Acquisition and Boat Ramp Addition; $4,065,000
Dauphin Island Mayor Jeff Collier: “The Town of Dauphin Island greatly appreciates Governor Ivey and her continued support to fund GOMESA projects like ours that will serve to connect citizens and visitors alike to our abundant natural resources for years to come!”
Mobile Bay Western Shore Land Acquisition; $4,400,000
Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl: “We are thrilled to receive GOMESA funds for our project, and for Mobile County to have made the list is remarkable. With these GOMESA resources, we are wisely investing into a project that will be useful for future generations. The benefits of our project are immeasurable and definitely a positive impact for our area.”
Restoration of D’Olive Bay Boat Channel; $800,000
Daphne Mayor Dane Haygood: “The GOMESA award for the D’Olive Bay dredging project will enable access to the waters of Mobile Bay for tens of thousands of Daphne and Eastern Shore residents. The City of Daphne has a historical identity as a waterfront community, although current waterfront access is limited. Enhancement of waterfront access for Daphne residents has been a priority of this administration. I am pleased to partner with the State of Alabama and Governor Ivey and to utilize GOMESA funds to make this project a reality.”
Mount Vernon Park Enhancements for Addition to the Birding Trail; $78,000
Causeway Land Acquisition, Restoration, and Park Addition; $2,500,000
Spanish Fort Mayor Mike McMillan “The City of Spanish Fort appreciates the opportunity given to us and thanks the Governor for her willingness to achieve this project. This will be the first step in moving our Causeway Master Plan development forward to welcome citizens to Baldwin County and to display what will showcase the greatness of our delta resources.”
