Ala. Code § 33-2-1
In addition to the authority granted to the State of Alabama by the provisions of Section 93 of the Constitution of Alabama as amended, and any other laws of this state, the state is hereby expressly authorized and empowered to engage in works of internal improvement by promoting, developing, constructing, maintaining and operating along navigable rivers, streams or waterways now or hereafter existing within this state, all manner of dock facilities, elevators, compresses, warehouses, water and rail terminals and other structures and facilities and improvements of every kind needful for the convenient use of same, in aid of commerce and use of the waterways of this state; provided, that all such works, improvements and facilities shall always be and remain under the management and control of the Alabama State Docks Department. The Alabama State Docks Department shall be the agency of the state under which the state shall accomplish all the purposes of this article and the acquisition, construction, maintenance and operation of all the improvements and facilities acquired or constructed or enlarged pursuant to the provisions of this article.
Ala. Code § 33-2-1 (1975)