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Mobile County is moving forward with a $15.7 million shoreline restoration project aimed at protecting and rebuilding marsh habitat along Mobile Bay.

The Mobile County Commission approved a grant amendment and construction contract to advance the Salt Aire Shoreline Restoration Project on the western shore of the bay.

What’s happening at Salt Aire?

Saltairerestorationlocationaerial Alabama, Mobile — Salt Aire Shoreline Restoration project area on the western shore of Mobile Bay near Theodore. (Mobile County)

Here’s what that funding means for Mobile Bay:

Rebuild about 30 acres of marsh along the western shoreline
Install additional breakwaters to slow erosion
Use dredged material to help reshape and strengthen the marsh
Create a more resilient natural buffer against waves and storms

The entire $15.7 million project is being funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund, which uses Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement dollars to restore Gulf Coast ecosystems. Mobile County is not required to provide matching funds.

County commissioners also approved a $7.48 million construction contract with Viking Dredge, LLC to carry out the work. All construction costs will be covered by the grant.

Why this matters for Mobile Bay

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According to Mobile County officials, the project will strengthen marsh habitat that supports fisheries, wildlife and the region’s working waterfront. Healthy marshes also act as a natural buffer against wave action and coastal storms.

“These are oil spill settlement dollars being put back where they belong to restore and protect Mobile Bay,” said Mobile County District 3 Commissioner Randall Dueitt in a statement.