Gulf Shores Secures $2.1 Million to Prepare Airport for High Skill Aerospace Jobs

The City of Gulf Shores has been awarded $2,140,570 through the Growing Alabama Tax Credit Program to advance major site development at Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). Gulf Shores was one of only 10 communities selected statewide in this highly competitive funding cycle.

The funding will prepare 10 acres of airport property and construct two aircraft apron pads totaling 121,500 square feet, creating flexible, market‑ready sites capable of supporting multiple 40,000‑square‑foot hangars or a single 120,000‑square‑foot facility. The project is designed to attract one large or multiple mid‑sized aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operators. The Growing Alabama grant significantly reduces upfront development costs and removes timeline barriers that often deter aviation companies from entering new markets.

“This investment doesn’t just prepare a site — it opens the door to high‑skill MRO jobs and a more diversified economy for Gulf Shores,” said Blake Phelps, Director of Economic Development and Public Affairs. “By completing these improvements now, we’re removing barriers for aerospace companies and positioning our community for long‑term economic success.”

This Growing Alabama funding was made possible through the partnership of Baldwin EMC, which allocated its eligible tax credit capacity to support the project. Their support ensures the airport project can move forward quickly and competitively, accelerating site readiness for future aerospace investment.

“We’re proud to stand alongside Gulf Shores on this project because investing in the airport’s growth is an investment in the people and businesses we serve,” said Lee Johnson, Baldwin EMC Vice President of External Affairs and Economic Development. “Supporting this aviation expansion reflects our commitment to powering economic opportunity and strengthening our communities.”

Once complete, the new apron areas will help transition Gulf Shores International Airport from a conceptual development site into a competitive aviation hub positioned to support high‑skill, high‑wage MRO operations. This project is expected to support 50 to 200 quality jobs and attract substantial private capital investment.

“This project positions Gulf Shores International Airport to attract highly skilled MRO providers capable of servicing mid-sized commercial and cooperate jets that require more advanced facilities than traditional maintenance operations,” said Jesse Fosnaugh, Airport Director. “This investment gives us the advanced infrastructure needed to compete for top‑tier aviation jobs and long‑term economic growth.”

The Gulf Shores Airport Authority will cover all soft costs and project management fees, ensuring no financial burden to the City. This project marks a major milestone in Gulf Shores’ long‑term strategy to grow and diversify the local economy through targeted aviation and aerospace development.

The Growing Alabama program uses private contributions – offset with state tax credits – to prepare publicly owned industrial sites for future economic development, helping communities accelerate site readiness and reduce barriers for new and expanding industries.

The City of Gulf Shores extends its appreciation to Governor Kay Ivey, the Alabama Department of Commerce, the Renewal of Alabama Commission, and Baldwin EMC for their continued support and investment in Gulf Shores International Airport.

Originally published by City of Gulf Shores.