Through the Alabama State Docks Department, the state, in engaging in the works of internal improvements authorized by this article, shall have the power to acquire, purchase, install, lease, construct, own, hold, maintain, equip, control and operate along navigable rivers, streams or waterways and at river ports or landings along navigable rivers, streams or waterways now or hereafter existing within the state, wharves, piers, docks, quays, grain elevators, cotton compresses, warehouses, improvements and water and rail terminals and such structures and facilities as may be needful for convenient use of the same, in aid of commerce and use of navigable waterways of the state, to the fullest extent practical and as the State Docks Department shall deem desirable or proper. This authority shall include dredging of approaches to any facilities acquired, erected, maintained or operated pursuant to this article; provided, that before the State Docks Department shall exercise the authority invested in it hereby, the director of state docks shall first submit plans, including estimates of cost, prepared by competent engineers or architects, and a survey made by competent independent and professional engineers showing the economic feasibility of exercising its authority, to the Governor for his approval or disapproval in reference thereto, and, as to dredging, the state docks director shall likewise confer with proper United States authorities; provided, that the State Docks Department shall have no authority to condemn or acquire by exercise of the right of eminent domain any privately owned ports, terminal, docks or loading facilities located on any navigable river or stream except at the Port of Mobile.
Structure Code of Alabama
Title 33 - Navigation and Watercourses.
Chapter 2 - Development of Docks and Other Facilities Along Inland Waterways.
Article 1 - 1957 Provisions for Facilities Along Inland Waterways.
Section 33-2-1 - Authority of State and State Docks Department Generally.
Section 33-2-2 - Maximum Cost of Development.
Section 33-2-4 - Powers and Duties of Department Under Article Cumulative.
Section 33-2-5 - Power of Eminent Domain Generally.
Section 33-2-6 - How Property and Rights-of-Way May Be Acquired; Eminent Domain Proceedings.
Section 33-2-7 - Department May Contract Current Indebtedness.
Section 33-2-10 - Cost of Each Unit to Be Ascertained, etc.; Sinking Fund.
Section 33-2-11 - Faith and Credit of State Pledged to Payment of Bonds.
Section 33-2-12 - Rates and Charges for Use of Facilities.
Section 33-2-13 - Department to Make Reports to Legislature.
Section 33-2-15 - No Prior Indebtedness to Be Paid From Funds Received.
Section 33-2-16 - Revocation and Suspension of Licenses to Occupy State Property.