The Mobile Airport Authority (MAA) announced today that a $2 million grant from Alabama’s SEEDS (Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy) program will be instrumental in its plans to expand Brookley Aeroplex and boost economic opportunities for the Mobile area.
The SEEDS funding allowed MAA to purchase 272 acres from the Mobile Housing Authority, earmarked for light industrial development, expanding Brookley and offering businesses easy access to multiple transport options.
The $2 million SEEDS grant was matched by $18 million in local funds.
“Receiving the SEEDS grant today reaffirms how important MAA’s work is to our community and state,” MAA Executive Director Andy Wilson said. “This funding moves our Brookley Expansion Project forward, giving us the resources to bring in new businesses, create jobs, and strengthen Mobile’s role in Alabama’s growth.
“I’m excited to help guide this effort and support a strong future for MAA and the region.”
MAA said it is committed to enhancing the capabilities of Brookley, which supports over 90 businesses. This includes Airbus’ only U.S. aircraft manufacturing facility, Airbus Engineering, VT MAE and Continental Motors, highlighting the complex’s prominent role in the aviation sector.
Commercial hub
This development project aligns with MAA’s broader vision to establish Mobile International Airport (BFM), located at Brookley, as a central hub for commerce and industry in Alabama, with strategic connections through air, rail, maritime and trucking.
“This investment underscores the transformative potential of BFM for Mobile and Baldwin Counties, and we look forward to delivering enhanced infrastructure that benefits our community,” Mobile Airport Authority Chairman Elliot Maisel said.
MAA is constructing a new terminal and parking garage at BFM that is expected to open early next year.
“The Mobile Airport Authority’s expansion of Brookley Aeroplex is a pivotal step forward for Alabama’s economic growth and regional connectivity,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “The $2 million SEEDS grant, along with the local funding, represents a major investment in Mobile’s future.
“By expanding Brookley’s capacity for light industrial development, this project will enhance Mobile’s attractiveness to new businesses, create high-quality jobs, and amplify the impact of the Mobile International Airport on Alabama’s economy,” she added.
“We’re proud to support initiatives like this that drive long-term growth and position Alabama as a leading destination for business and innovation.”
Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne said the SEEDS grant reflects momentum building within the region.
“This grant will catalyze growth at the Brookley Aeroplex, paving the way for new opportunities and reinforcing Mobile’s role as a key player in industrial development,” Byrne said.
Seeding growth
The SEEDS program is an important part of Alabama’s plan to prepare sites for new industries, driving job creating and economic growth. With over $30 million in allocations from the SEEDS program’s first round, matched with $38 million in local funding, the state is primed to attract significant new industry.
The SEEDS program, created as part of Governor Kay Ivey’s “Game Plan” initiative to supercharge economic growth across Alabama, is administered by the State Industrial Development Authority.
“We are immensely thankful to Governor Ivey and the State Industrial Development Authority for their commitment to the future of Mobile International Airport and the Brookley Aeroplex,” Maisel said.
A second round of SEEDS grants is now in the works.
This story originally appeared on Made in Alabama.
