The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has awarded more than $2 million in state grants to improve infrastructure at 27 public-use airports statewide, including projects in Gulf Shores and Fairhope.

According to a news release, the H.L. “Sonny” Callahan Airport in Fairhope will receive $468,258 in state funds and contribute $156,086 in local matching funds for pavement maintenance on the east terminal ramp and northwest apron. The total project cost is $624,344.

In Gulf Shores, the airport, which started flying its first commercial airline in Allegiant this spring, is set to upgrade its terminal parking lot with a $215,787 grant from the state, matched by an equal contribution from the airport, for a total of $431,574.

The grants are part of ALDOT’s Alabama Airport Improvement Funding Program, which provides financial assistance and technical support to public-use airports across the state. Eligible projects include land acquisition, runway and taxiway improvements, hangar construction, facility maintenance and other operational upgrades.

“Local airports are critical to connecting our communities and supporting Alabama’s economy,” Frank Farmer, Bureau Chief of ALDOT’s Aeronautics Bureau, said in the release. “This funding helps strengthen infrastructure, improve safety and support essential air services in all parts of the state.”

ALDOT established the funding program to help airports with planning, construction and maintenance of aviation facilities. In addition to grants, the department can provide engineering and technical assistance for approved projects.

In total, 27 airports across Alabama received state support this year, from major safety upgrades to hangar expansions. The program highlights the state’s continued investment in aviation, which supports economic development, emergency response and tourism.

For more information about the Alabama Airport Improvement Funding Program, visit www.dot.state.al.us. To see the full list of airport projects, visit https://aldotnews.com.