Relocating Mobile’s commercial airline services to a new terminal close to downtown has been described as a “transformational” project for the city and region and one that will lead to lower air fares and more direct flight options in coastal Alabama.

Rich said she hopes the new airport can be a transportation hub that includes a bus terminal and a passenger rail stop. Amtrak is currently pushing for a return of a Gulf Coast rail route connecting New Orleans to Mobile, and their request is currently being weighed by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board.