Baldwin County Commission has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence in local governance by receiving the Efficiency and Innovation in County Government award at the Association of County Commissions of Alabama (ACCA) Annual Conference Awards Ceremony. This accolade recognizes outstanding efforts in addressing community challenges through innovative and efficient approaches.

Baldwin County Commission’s award winning "30 Cubed Program" is a groundbreaking innovative local community approach to infrastructure challenges making the program a clear choice for the recognition. The program, which aims to enhance roadway capacity and connectivity, involves a collaborative effort between the County Commission and local municipalities. By matching $30 million in county funds with $30 million in municipal funds, the initiative seeks to complete $60 million worth of transportation projects by 2030. This innovative cost-sharing model has accelerated project timelines and significantly strengthened partnerships across the County.

The 30 Cubed Program is unique as it does not require state or federal funding, showcasing how communities can work together at a local level to expedite projects that might otherwise face significant delays or never receive funding. In addition, jurisdictional boundaries are not a factor in the program.  Whether the road is all county, all city or both, the only qualifying factor is the project must enhance roadway capacity and connectivity with a regional impact.  This model could be replicated not only across the state but also throughout the country. By fostering local collaboration and eliminating bureaucratic red tape, the program ensures that critical infrastructure improvements are made efficiently and effectively. This shows that Baldwin County is leading the way in community partnerships and sets an example for others on how to handle growth together.

To date, four projects have been committed to under the award winning 30 Cubed Program:

1. County Road 6 at State Route 59 Intersection Improvements: This first project, in partnership with the City of Gulf Shores, involves significant intersection enhancements to improve traffic flow and safety. The total cost is $11.1 million, with equal contributions from the county and the city.

2. James Road Extension: Partnering with the City of Foley, this project extends James Road to improve connectivity between Foley and Gulf Shores. The project cost is $4.2 million, shared equally by the county and the city.

3. County Road 49 Roadway and Pedestrian Improvements: In collaboration with the Town of Magnolia Springs, this project enhances roadway capacity and pedestrian safety along County Road 49. The total cost is $4.2 million, with equal funding from the county and the town.

4. Eastern Shore Boulevard to Old Highway 31 Roadway Improvements: The latest project, in partnership with the City of Spanish Fort, includes new roadways, pedestrian improvements, a roundabout, intersection safety enhancements, and infrastructure planning to accommodate a future public transit bus hub. The project cost is $7.1 million, equally funded by the county and the city.