The Mobile Airport Authority (MAA) has been awarded a significant $2 million grant aimed at facilitating the expansion of the Brookley Aeroplex according to a news release. This funding, part of the State Industrial Development Authority’s (SIDA) broader initiative known as the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy Act (SEEDS), is set to reinforce Alabama’s industrial infrastructure.

Governor Kay Ivey's recent announcement of over $30 million in SEEDS grants highlights concerted efforts to expedite industry-ready site development statewide. With a total of $30.1 million in SEEDS funding, complemented by $38.4 million in local contributions, Alabama endeavors to attract transformative economic projects that foster job creation and economic opportunities.

Chairman Elliot Maisel of the MAA expressed gratitude towards Governor Kay Ivey and the State Industrial Development Authority, acknowledging their continued investment in Mobile International Airport.

”We deeply appreciate Governor Kay Ivey and the State Industrial Development Authority for their continued investment in Mobile International Airport,” Maisel said in the release. ”This $2 million grant is a testament to the MAA’s vision that is the Mobile International Airport. Our International Airport, with continuing help from the state of Alabama, will be transformative for our city, region, and all of our citizens.'

The grant represents a significant stride in advancing the expansion plans for the Mobile International Airport and its surrounding property. Specifically, the allocation will be directed towards acquiring 272 acres of property from the Mobile Housing Authority for light industrial development.

MAA President Chris Curry echoed Maisel's sentiments, emphasizing the significance of SEEDS support in advancing the Brookley Aeroplex expansion project.

"We are grateful for the support provided through SEEDS, which gives us the chance to grow the Brookley Aeroplex and attract new opportunities to our community," Curry said. ”As we move forward with the Brookley Expansion Project, we’re dedicated to making the most of this grant to benefit Mobile.”

The MAA operates Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), Mobile International Airport (BFM), Brookley Aeroplex, and St. Elmo Airport, generating $2 billion in economic value for Alabama. MOB serves as a hub for major airlines including Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, providing direct service to Atlanta, Dallas, Charlotte, and Houston. Additionally, MOB is home to Airbus Space and Defense. For more information, visit mobileairportauthority.com.

“The Mobile Chamber greatly appreciates Governor Kay Ivey’s dedication to economic development in Alabama,” said Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne. “We at the Mobile Chamber are particularly proud to have played a role in helping to secure a portion of this funding for the Mobile Airport Authority. Our collaboration with MAA throughout the application process and site evaluation exemplifies the positive outcomes that can be achieved through strategic partnerships.”

Improving services is not a recent initiative for the Mobile Airport Authority. In January, Gulf Coast Media reported on Breeze Airways' exciting plans to expand its services to Mobile International Airport, providing a welcome alternative following Avelo Airlines' temporary discontinuation of flights. As the U.S.'s sole NLCC, or "Nice Low Cost Carrier," Breeze Airways announced on Jan. 23 its intention to introduce nonstop flights from Mobile to Orlando, Florida, as well as one-stop BreezeThru service to Providence, Rhode Island, with operations set to commence on April 10.