Transportation (Ports)

HJR 326 is a resolution that formally recognizes the need for a new north-south transportation route in eastern Alabama. The bill highlights that current east-west interstates do not provide a direct connection to the Port of Mobile for manufacturing areas in Talladega, Calhoun, and Etowah counties. It states that such a route would improve economic connectivity, support tourism, and reduce traffic congestion on existing highways. This measure does not authorize funding or construction but serves to express legislative support for future infrastructure planning.

HB 135 creates the Alabama Port Infrastructure Grant Program under the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to fund improvements at publicly owned inland ports and transportation hubs connecting different shipping methods (like rail and barge). It allocates $5 million annually starting in 2026 for competitive grants, requiring 20% local matching funds and limiting state funding to 50% of project costs. The program prioritizes projects that reduce highway congestion, boost port tonnage, and enhance regional competitiveness, while explicitly excluding routine maintenance, administrative costs, and new port construction without prior feasibility studies. Funding must directly support capital improvements, dredging near existing ports, or infrastructure development outside normal operating budgets.