Baldwin County, AL

05/08/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/08/2026 08:28

Baldwin County Receives Funding for Beach Safety Markers in Fort Morgan

Baldwin County Receives Funding for Beach Safety Markers in Fort Morgan

May 8, 2026, 09:25 AM

The Baldwin County Commission has secured federal funding to support the future installation of high-visibility beach safety markers at public access points along the Fort Morgan Peninsula. Once implemented, these markers will help first responders more quickly locate individuals in need during an emergency.

The project is funded through $500,000 in federal appropriations secured by U.S. Congressman Barry Moore as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 process. The County is deeply appreciative of his support in helping position this important safety initiative for future implementation.

The markers will be installed at public beach access points and nearby streets, giving beachgoers a clear reference point to share with 9-1-1 during an emergency. Because Fort Morgan has long, unmarked stretches of shoreline and few landmarks, pinpointing a caller's location can otherwise be challenging.

Fort Morgan is served by the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office. With no full-time lifeguards and many access points spread across miles of coastline, having clear reference markers is expected to improve critical emergency response times.

"Baldwin County is one of the fastest-growing areas in our state, and I'm proud to have worked alongside the County Commission to help secure these critical investments for our community," said Congressman Barry Moore. "The beach safety markers in Fort Morgan will help protect families and visitors who enjoy our beautiful Gulf Coast."

Baldwin County EMA Director Tom Tyler also weighed in on how the markers will benefit public safety:

"Emergency management is about preparedness and removing barriers before an emergency happens. These markers eliminate confusion and give both callers and responders clarity in high-stress situations. It's a simple solution that strengthens our overall safety network."

Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, added:

"Educating our visitors and residents on how to enjoy our beaches safely has been a key focus for our organization, the cities, and Baldwin County for many years. With Fort Morgan's lodging mix being heavily rental homes with very limited public access points, this funding is vital to expanding BEACH SAFE messaging in this area. This signage will greatly assist the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department and the Baldwin County Sheriff deputies in alerting people to potential hazards and how to enjoy their day at the beach safely."

Fort Morgan Fire Chief Lee Steiner said:

"By labeling beach access points and adding safety markers, we can reduce emergency response times and help responders from other agencies reach locations more quickly. These markers will also provide crucial reference points for missing persons cases and other emergency calls."

As Baldwin County continues to grow and welcome more visitors each year, we have a responsibility to adapt our safety infrastructure. This initiative reflects that commitment.

Once federal requirements are satisfied and funds are released, the County will move into the design and implementation phase.

Additional updates, including anticipated timelines, will be shared as more information becomes available.
Baldwin County, AL published this content on May 08, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 08, 2026 at 14:28 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]