WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors and members of APA’s leadership team were in Washington this week to meet with Alabama’s congressional delegation and thank them for their continued support of critical projects at the Port of Mobile.
On June 2, Port leaders met with members of Alabama’s congressional delegation to provide an update on ongoing federal investments at the Port of Mobile and to highlight APA’s role in supporting economic development across Alabama. The meetings also provided an opportunity to thank members of the delegation personally for their continued support of critical projects that strengthen the Port’s capabilities and help position it for future growth.
“The Port of Mobile is a critical economic engine for the state of Alabama, and we are grateful to Alabama’s federal leaders for continuing to invest in our facilities and infrastructure,” said Zeke Smith, Chairman of the Board of the Alabama Port Authority. “These projects don’t just benefit the Port and the customers we serve. They strengthen Alabama businesses, support thousands of jobs, and create economic opportunity in communities across our state.”
This week’s trip to Washington, a first for the APA Board, follows a year of significant federal support for initiatives benefiting the Port of Mobile. More than $49 million in federal funding and appropriations secured in 2026 will help modernize facilities, improve operational efficiency and advance strategic projects that reinforce Mobile’s position as America’s Gulf Gateway.
Federal funding and appropriations secured for the Alabama Port Authority in Fiscal Year 2026 include:
- $3.2 million for development of a beneficial use site in Upper Mobile Bay that will support long-term dredging operations while creating new wetlands and environmental habitat.
- $2 million through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program for improvements at the TASD Interchange Yard to enhance freight rail efficiency and connectivity.
- $2 million through the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) supporting modernization efforts at the McDuffie Coal Terminal.
- $850,000 through the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) for design and engineering work for a future cargo facility on APA’s main docks.
- $500,000 to study increased sedimentation impacting the Port of Mobile.
- ~$38 million through Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund Donor and Energy Transfer programs to support dredging and beneficial use initiatives in Mobile Bay.
While in Washington, APA leaders also provided updates on several ongoing projects at the Port and beyond, including the expansion of the container terminal, intermodal capacity upgrades and other initiatives designed to enhance Alabama’s competitiveness in global trade.
“Strong revenues are allowing us to reinvest in our facilities and operations, but federal support is critical to making the larger infrastructure investments needed to support sustained growth at the Port of Mobile,” Alabama Port Authority Director and CEO Doug Otto said. “Our congressional delegation understands the impact the Port has on Alabama’s economy, and we appreciate their continued partnership and support.” The Port of Mobile is one of Alabama’s most important economic engines, supporting more than 1 in 7 jobs statewide. Since 2019, the Port has generated $415 billion in economic impact across all 67 counties. As Alabama’s only deep-water seaport and a critical gateway to global markets, the Port connects Alabama businesses, manufacturers and industries to customers around the world.
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Contact: Jason Johnson, Director of Communications, Alabama Port Authority
251-441-7120 (o) | 334-701-9145 (c) jason.johnson@ALPorts.com
