Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced her approval to move forward with 16 projects on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
The projects, which total more than $26 million, are being funded through the federal Gulf of Mexico Energy and Security Act Program, or GOMESA, which disburses revenue from oil and gas production to Gulf states for conservation and coastal projects.
“Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a foundation for our state’s natural beauty, and it is imperative that we be good stewards to that area. The GOMESA funds made available to Alabama are providing aid to make various improvement and conservation projects possible,” Ivey said in a statement. “From research lab support to improving areas for Alabamians and our visitors to enjoy, these funds will go a long way in preserving this special place in our state.”
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in January called for project suggestions from the public, and more than 60 were submitted for consideration, according to a press release from Ivey’s office. The federal funding is limited, however, which restricts the number of projects that can be accomplished, the release states.
The GOMESA approved projects are as follows:
- Weeks Bay and Fish River Boat Ramp Parking Improvements — $550,000
- City of Chickasaw Brooks Landing Public Access Enhancements — $274,990
- City of Satsuma Steele Creek Lodge Public Access Improvements — $1,024,141
- Dauphin Island Park and Little Billy Goat Hole Access Improvements — $450,000
- Dauphin Island Sea Lab Marine Science Research Vessel — $3,250,000
- Dauphin Island Sea Lab Manatee Sighting Network — $149,838
- GulfQuest Exhibit and Educational Content Improvements — $76,800
- Alabama State Port Authority Boat Launch Three Mile Creek — $150,000
- ADCNR Habitat Protection in the Perdido River Watershed — $3,720,000
- Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory Oyster Enhancement Project — $633,50
- Administration of GOMESA Distribution — $643,298
- Bayou la Batre Utilities Septic to Sewer Improvements Projects — $2,427,300
- Mobile County Water, Sewer, and Fire Authority Septic to Sewer Project — $3,697,500
- Baldwin County ICWW Public Boating Access Construction — $2,601,500
- City of Foley Nature Parks Expansion and Enhancements — $3,000,000
- Mobile County Commission Public Access Master Plan Implementation — $3,500,000
