Siegelman Starts Revitalization for Port of Alabama

Gov. Don Siegelman today officially started phase one of the revitalization of the Port of Alabama with the demolition of a warehouse to make room for new port facilities.  The demolition immediately followed the approval of the port revitalization plan by the Alabama Port Authority and the issuance of funds by the Amendment One Bond Commission.

“The actions that we are taking today will officially set in motion an historic endeavor that will provide an economic shot in the arm for Alabama, felt in every county and every community across our great state,” Siegelman said.

“By investing in our state port, we are investing in new jobs and Alabama’s future.  The Port of Alabama will be a gateway to the world for Alabama, for the Southeast and for our nation.”

The Alabama Port Authority met in conjunction with the Amendment One Bond Commission at Pier North A of the Port of Alabama.

The authority approved the proposed revitalization plan and to begin phase one of the project and then adjourned for the bond commission to meet.

The bond commission, consisting of the governor, Director of Finance Henry C. Mabry III, Revenue Commissioner Michael Patterson, State Sen. Roger Bedford and State Rep. John Knight approved the action resolution for the issuance of approximately $20 million in state funds for the nearly $45 million phase one project.

The $20 million is the first portion of $100 million authorized for the port revitalization by voter approval of Amendment One in November 2000.

Following the commission’s approval, Siegelman ordered the demolition of a warehouse at the port to officially begin the revitalization effort.

Phase one of the port revitalization includes a new metals cargo terminal at Pier North A, upgrades of track and equipment for rail interchange, a new forest products terminal on Pier North C, a metals cargo terminal on Pier D and new container equipment at Pier 2.

In addition to the $20 million in state funds, $15 million in Alabama State Port Authority Revenue Bonds, $5 million federal funds and $4.9 million in Alabama State Port Authority Cash Reserves will be invested in phase one of the port’s revitalization.