Baldwin County has secured $500,000 in federal funding to install high-visibility beach safety markers along public access points on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, a move officials say will strengthen emergency response efforts in one of Alabama’s fastest-growing coastal areas.

According to a news release from teh Baldwin County Commission, the funding was secured by U.S. Congressman Barry Moore as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. County leaders said the investment will allow for the future design and installation of clearly marked reference points at public beach access sites and nearby streets, giving beachgoers a precise location to share with 9-1-1 dispatchers during emergencies.

Because Fort Morgan features long, unmarked stretches of shoreline and few visible landmarks, first responders often face challenges pinpointing callers’ locations. Per the release, the peninsula is served by the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office. With no full-time lifeguards and access points spread across miles of coastline, officials expect the markers will help reduce response times in critical situations.

“Baldwin County is one of the fastest-growing areas in our state, and I’m proud to have worked alongside the County Commission to help secure these critical investments for our community,” Moore said in the release. “The beach safety markers in Fort Morgan will help protect families and visitors who enjoy our beautiful Gulf Coast.”

Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency Director Tom Tyler said the initiative removes barriers that can slow emergency response.

“Emergency management is about preparedness and removing barriers before an emergency happens. These markers eliminate confusion and give both callers and responders clarity in high-stress situations. It’s a simple solution that strengthens our overall safety network,” Tyler said.

Tourism officials also emphasized the importance of the project in an area where rental homes dominate and public beach access points are limited. Beth Gendler, President and CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, said safety education has long been a priority for local governments and tourism leaders.

“Educating our visitors and residents on how to enjoy our beaches safely has been a key focus for our organization, the cities, and Baldwin County for many years. With Fort Morgan’s lodging mix being heavily rental homes with very limited public access points, this funding is vital to expanding BEACH SAFE messaging in this area. This signage will greatly assist the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and the Baldwin County Sheriff deputies in alerting people to potential hazards and how to enjoy their day at the beach safely,” Gendler said.

Fort Morgan Fire Chief Lee Steiner said the markers will not only improve day-to-day emergency calls but also assist in more complex incidents.

“By labeling beach access points and adding safety markers, we can reduce emergency response times and help responders from other agencies reach locations more quickly. These markers will also provide crucial reference points for missing persons cases and other emergency calls,” Steiner said.

As Baldwin County continues to see steady residential growth and rising visitor numbers each year, officials said the county must adapt its public safety infrastructure to meet increasing demand. The beach marker project reflects that broader effort to modernize emergency response capabilities along the Gulf Coast.

Once federal requirements are met and funds are formally released, the county will move into the design and implementation phase. Additional updates, including anticipated timelines, will be announced as more information becomes available.