Ala. Code § 33-2-33
The state, acting through the department, shall, in engaging in the works of internal improvement authorized by this article, have the power to acquire, purchase, install, lease, construct, own, hold, maintain, equip, control and operate along navigable rivers, streams or waterways now or hereafter existing within the state, and at river ports or landings along such navigable rivers, streams or waterways, dock facilities of all kinds, in aid of commerce and use of navigable waterways of the state, to the fullest extent practicable and to such extent as the department shall deem desirable or proper. The authority herein granted shall include the completion of any dock facilities originally acquired under the provisions of the 1957 Docks Act, and also the dredging of approaches to any dock facilities acquired, erected, maintained or operated pursuant to this article or the 1957 Docks Act. Before the department shall exercise the authority vested in it hereby with respect to any dock facilities or any dredging of the approaches thereto, the department 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 the proposal envisaged by such plans, to the Governor for his approval or disapproval. In the event of the Governor's disapproval, the plans shall either be abandoned or be revised and again submitted to the Governor for his approval or disapproval. Prior to the commencement of any construction, dredging or other work hereunder for which a permit from, or the consent of, any United States authorities may be required by law, the department shall obtain the requisite permit or consent.
Ala. Code § 33-2-33 (1975)