Dauphin Island Sea Lab Proposes New Building

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab has proposed constructing a new hurricane-resistant building, Business Alabama reports. Researchers at the University of South Alabama have estimated a construction cost exceeding $7 million. Construction would provide a total value-added impact of $4.6 million, a total revenue impact of $11.2 million, a total employment impact of 71 jobs, a total personal earnings impact of $3.3 million and a total tax impact of $30,872. The lab said it delivers $56 million in total economic impact to Alabama. It is expected to seek grant funding this year to help with the construction costs of the new building, which it hopes to complete in 2022 or 2023. The state institution is celebrating 50 years and looks to rebuild stronger following significant damage to its campus during Hurricane Sally, sources including AL.com have reported.