Sewell presents check for Craig Field, renovation of 14 Alabama Avenue buildings

US Rep. Terri Sewell made two funding announcements in Selma-Dallas County last week that included $1.6 million for improvements along Alabama Avenue and $250,000 for the Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority.

Sewell presented a check to the city of Selma on Friday for a project that involves assessing, renovating and converting 14 historic buildings on Alabama Avenue. 

Later that day, she presented funds to Craig Field leaders for funds that will be used for upgrades, including a precision approach path indicator system, taxiway and runway signage and parking lot asphalt repairs. 

"For more than 85 years, Craig Field has stood as a hub of business and aviation here in Dallas County and in Selma," Sewell said. "It has been a hub of business and aviation advancement, empowering our local economy and supporting livelihoods across Dallas County."

The airport funding is part of $9.5 million in community projects secured across Alabama's 7th Congressional District. 

The $1.6 million for improvements along Alabama Avenue will help revitalize a downtown street that has seen decline and is a frequent hangout spot on weekends that has led to shootings, including one in March that launched the weekend of Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee activities.

Also presented on Friday was $500,000 from that fund to Auburn University to design and build weather-resistant homes in Selma, which was hit by an EF-2 tornado in 2023. 

"As a home girl from Selma, Alabama, it does a heart good to be able to provide resources and invest right here in Selma and Dallas County," Sewell said.

Sewell also highlighted previous investments connected to Craig Field, including a $500,000 Environmental Protection Agency brownfield grant and a $2.4 million grant awarded in Fiscal Year 2023 to renovate facilities for the air traffic control training academy located at the site. 

James Thomas, executive director of the airport authority, said the funding will help continue ongoing improvements at the facility.

"This means a great deal for us," Thomas said. "We're keeping us on the right path. We've been making a lot of improvements." 

Sewell said continued investment in the airport will have benefits beyond aviation.

"We know that when we revitalize Craig Field Airport, we are revitalizing our entire community and allowing economic development to grow and flourish," she said.