Gulf Shores accepts $5.3 million for air traffic control tower

City of Gulf Shores • May 28, 2020

First ever Air Traffic Control Tower in Baldwin County

Gulf Shores new air traffic control tower

(OBA®) — The Gulf Shores City Council and Gulf Shores Airport Authority in separate actions today approved a grant with the Federal Aviation Administration in the amount of $5,3 million. The Airport Authority and City credited the perseverance and efforts of Sen.Richard Shelby’s and Rep. Bradley Byrne’s offices to achieve this long-sought goal for the airport.

The airport currently ranks as the second busiest airport in-flight operations (landings and takeoffs) in Alabama and will rank in the top 40 of the 256 Federal Contract Towers nationwide once in operation.

Several FAA offices remarked that JKA set a record for the highest benefit-cost ratio ever seen in the program’s history at 4.18. This means that the benefits of the tower exceed the costs associated by a factor of 4.2.

As a result of “CARES ACT” FAA participation has increased from 90 percent to 100 percent.

“The $700,000 in Airport Authority funds set aside for the tower construction will be reallocated to the future terminal project,” Airport Authority Chairman Vic Roberts said.

Congressman Byrne said; “Jack Edwards National Airport serves one of the fastest growing regions of our state, and the funds that the FAA has approved for this much needed tower will enable the airport to take another step forward in service to its customers and Southwest Alabama’s economy. In years to come, the airport will play an increasingly vital role in the continued development of Baldwin County. I appreciate the FAA approving these funds, and I look forward to continuing to support the airport’s growth.”

"Jack Edwards National Airport serves the thriving business and tourism market in Gulf Shores, South Baldwin County, and communities along the Alabama Gulf Coast," Mayor Robert Craft said. "This full service airport is an outstanding asset creating jobs and diversification opportunities for new and existing businesses. Jack Edwards National Airport is vital to the development and continued economic growth of the area and provides a transportation hub for anyone traveling for business, recreation, and/or relaxation."

The project is scheduled to be bid June 18 with bid openings on July 30, 2020. Construction is slated to be complete in May 2021.

For more information please contact Scott Fuller by email, sfuller@flyjka.com, or by phone, 251-967-3968.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Share this article w/ Friends...

Things to do on the Gulf Coast this week.

Gulf Coast Giddy-Up: Halloween Happenings & Fall Favorites

By Jessica A. Taylor • October 26, 2026

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — October is making its grand exit, Halloween and hayrides are stealing the spotlight, and the Alabama Gulf Coast is giving us every reason to squeeze a little more fun out of our short-lived fall. From cozy coffee dates and off-key karaoke to candy-filled trails, hometown festivals, and wat

Orange Beach Wildlife Center Hosts Transport Volunteer Training This November

By K. Cooper • October 26, 2026

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Wildlife Center is seeking community members to join its volunteer transport network. The center helps injured and distressed wildlife along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Volunteer transporters play a key role in safely capturing animals and transporting them to the facility for

Gulf Shores to Consider Major Pedestrian Bridge Plaza Upgrades

By K. Cooper • October 26, 2026

Gulf Shores is advancing major infrastructure improvements around its pedestrian bridge project and preparing to move forward with the first phase of the Pedestrian Bridge Plaza, which will convert undeveloped ground into functional public spaces.

Johnson Beach Welcomes Visitors For National Park Fee-Free Day

By K. Cooper • October 25, 2026

Perdido Key, Fla. — (OBA) — A trip to Johnson Beach will cost a little less on an upcoming national park fee-free day. The beach is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore on Perdido Key. It’s a short drive east from Orange Beach. A vehicle pass normally costs $25 and covers seven consecutive days.

Orange Beach Senior Center Hosts 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off Wednesday

By K. Cooper • October 25, 2026

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Senior Center is gearing up for its second annual Chili Cook-Off. Seven senior organizations will compete for the top prize. Attendees will serve as judges and vote for the best bowl of chili. The fun-filled evening will also feature live music and free food.

Foley Donates Space to South Baldwin Toys for Tots Campaign

By OBA Staff • October 25, 2026

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The city of Foley is stepping up for South Baldwin County children this holiday season by donating space for the 2026 Toys for Tots campaign. The South Baldwin County Toys for Tots campaign will use the first floor of the former Foley library building for its annual drive. The campaign collects n

Gulf Shores Police Warn Residents and Businesses About Active Scams

By OBA Staff • October 24, 2026

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Shores Police Department and the City of Gulf Shores are warning residents and business owners about several active fraud schemes targeting the community. Scammers are using a range of tactics to steal money and personal information from residents. Officials say at least one reside

Visions of Christmas 2025 - Photo by Shelley Patterson, C-Shelz Photography

Tickets On Sale for Orange Beach Christmas Concert Coming Up in December

By K. Cooper • October 24, 2026

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Performing Arts Center will host a Christmas concert series this December, bringing live holiday music to Orange Beach. The shows will feature festive music and seasonal performances for families and visitors. Tickets are currently on sale through the center's box office.

Foley Leaders Move To Update Local Flood Regulations

By OBA Staff • October 24, 2026

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley continues to improve city regulations to protect local property from flooding. Although some streets flooded during recent heavy rains, rising waters did not damage homes or other buildings. Municipal officials are working to strengthen community construction guidelines to keep local proper

Halloween Events Fill the Gulf Coast Calendar Through Oct. 31st

By K. Cooper • October 23, 2026

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Communities along the Alabama Gulf Coast have lined up a full week of Halloween activities stretching from Elberta to Perdido Key. The events include charity paddling, outdoor movies, museum celebrations, and a 5K. Organizers from multiple cities, nonprofits, and local businesses are coord