Gulf Shore, AL – The largest part of the oil spill cleanup is wrapping up on Alabama's main tourist beaches.
The heavy machinery that's been used to dig out oil and tar mats buried deep in the sand is expected to be removed later this week from city beaches in Baldwin County. As the work concludes, BP is laying off more of the contract employees who worked on the project.
While the workforce is being reduced, BP spokesman Justin Saia said almost 900 people are still working to remove oil from Alabama's coast.
City officials want all the work done before tourists begin returning to the coast in large numbers for spring break.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)