FAIRHOPE — Former state Rep. Joe Faust will be permanently honored in Baldwin County for years to come.

In a ceremony held at the Fairhope Satellite Courthouse on Friday morning, local political leaders, elected officials, as well as Faust's family and friends gathered as a section of Alabama State Route 181 was officially designated "Representative Joe Faust Highway." The new designation will cover portions of State Route 181 from State Route 104 to County Road 32.

Born on Sept. 13, 1940, in Birmingham, Faust moved to Fairhope in 1942 and served in the Alabama National Guard from 1958 to 1966. He began his political career in 1996, serving two terms on the Baldwin County Commission before being elected to the Alabama House of Representatives for District 94 in 2002, a position he held until he lost reelection in 2022 to Jennifer Fidler.

During his tenure in the Alabama House, Faust played a vital role in passing legislation including the expansion of Alabama Highway 181, as well as efforts related to economic development and the development and growth of several sites in Baldwin County, such as Fort Morgan and Bicentennial Park.

Outside of his work in the House, Faust was also a board member of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce and the Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education. He is the founder of Clean Water Alabama, a non-partisan organization dedicated to water conservation in the state.

This year, a resolution was passed in the Alabama House approving the designation of "Representative Joe Faust Highway" in Baldwin County, recognizing his contributions over the years. Many leaders from local and state levels were present for the dedication ceremony, including County Commissioner Matt McKenzie, Tony Harris from the Alabama Department of Transportation, Baldwin County Probate Judge Tim Russell and state Rep. Donna Givens. Faust's family, including his wife, Sharon, was also in attendance.

"I feel like I'm the best loved man in town," Faust said, looking at all the leaders he helped create, as well as the future leaders in the room to come. "I appreciate all the kind words that have been said."

Throughout the ceremony, several people took turns sharing heartfelt words about what Faust has meant to them. The consensus was unanimous: Faust's legacy in Baldwin County is one of deep and lasting impact.

"You've been a blessing in my life, and we are just elated to be part of this effort to honor you and your service," Tony Harris said to Faust. "Baldwin County is fortunate to have had your leadership, and it's better for it."

"He's got the heart of an elephant, a very big heart, and I am very proud to stand here as a county commissioner, something that you've done and been proud of," Matt McKenzie said from the podium. "I'm very proud of you."