New census estimates show that Baldwin County is in the top five fastest growing counties in the state of Alabama.
According to 2018 Census estimates, Baldwin County had the fastest growth over the last year of any county in Alabama in terms of both total population growth (an estimated 5,403 people between 2017 and 2018) and in growth percentage (2.5 percent).
Baldwin County is currently the fifth most populated county in the state, with an estimated 218,022 residents. Montgomery County comes in fourth, with an estimated 225,763 residents.
State Senator Chris Elliott said the continued growth is an opportunity for Baldwin County.
“The secret is out about Baldwin County, and these census estimates back that up,” Elliott said. “With this level of growth, we have a tremendous opportunity to continue to make a large economic impact on the state and the region as people look to our county as a place to live, work, and thrive.”
Elliott said one benefit that will come to Baldwin County as a result of the increase growth will be additional funding from the recently passed gas tax adjustment.
“Because of language we got in the bill, the allocation numbers for how those funds are disbursed are tied to census estimates,” Elliott said. “Even with our continued growth, that makes sure we’re getting our fair share of funding for roads and infrastructure that we’re going to need to continue to be an economic powerhouse for all of Alabama.”
Elliott said the county would have to continue to be proactive in addressing the needs presented with the increased growth.
“We’re going to have to continue to make sure that we’re growing in a way that protects the quality of life that is drawing people to our county,” Elliott said. “To that end, as a member of the Senate, I’m involved in every possible committee regarding transportation and roads to make sure Baldwin County is represented, heard and absolutely making sure we get our fair share of funding and attention from the state.”
Elliott said another concern about the continued growth is capacity for Baldwin County’s schools, which is why he introduced a bill that requires large-scale subdivision developers to seek input from the county’s superintendents about potential school capacity issues and allows the county’s planning commission to consider that information when those developers seek approval.
“This is great news for our economy but we must redouble our efforts to properly plan for this growth,” Elliott said. “Today, the Senate passed my bill which will make sure our school capacity is considered when approving new developments. It heads to the House. Please let our House members know of your support.”
