Ala. Code § 33-1-12
The port authority, in engaging in the work of internal improvement, or promoting, developing, constructing, maintaining and operating harbors, seaports, and riverports within the state and its jurisdiction, may acquire, purchase, install, lease, construct, own, hold, maintain, equip, use, control, and operate, at seaports, or at any ports located on any river or stream which is navigable for commercial traffic, or which may be made so navigable at any time in the future, wharves, piers, docks, quays, grain elevators, cotton compresses, warehouses, and other water and rail terminals and other structures, and facilities needed for the convenient use of the port authority in the aid of commerce, including the dredging of approaches thereto.
Ala. Code § 33-1-12 (1975)