Ala. Code § 33-16-11

In connection with the navigational use of the waterway, the authority is hereby authorized to construct, improve, maintain and operate suitable and adequate river and canal terminals in accordance with plans approved by the Secretary of the Army of the United States and the Chief of Engineers of the United States army; provided that any obligations undertaken by the authority in connection with the provision and maintenance of such terminals may be delegated by the authority to the State Docks Department.