Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Foley is moving forward with plans to improve signage at one of its busiest intersections. City officials say the changes will help drivers navigate the area more easily and improve the site's overall appearance. The project focuses on the intersection of Alabama 59 and U.S. 98 in downtown Foley. Leaders say the effort will reduce clutter and make information easier to read.

The Foley City Council approved the improvements as part of an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). Under the agreement, the city will cover the cost of producing the new signs, while ALDOT will handle installation. The work will focus on updating Scenic Byway wayfinding signage at the intersection.

Taylor Davis, Foley city engineer, said the current signs have been in place for years and are beginning to show wear. “The wayfinding signage for the intersection has been there for a number of years. The signs are starting to fade,” Davis said. He added that the city has worked with ALDOT for years to finalize the design and agreement.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich stated that the project also seeks to reduce the number of signs at the intersection. “We have been working for 20 years to minimize sign clutter at the corners, and Taylor was able to collaborate with ALDOT to reach an agreement,” Hellmich explained. “While there will still be some signs, we will significantly reduce their number, resulting in a much more aesthetically pleasing appearance.”

Davis said ALDOT officials support the new approach. “They are in agreement,” Davis said. “They feel this is the most efficient way to replace the signs and to summarize what's going on with the intersection.” He said the updated system will still provide needed directions while simplifying the layout.

City officials studied sign systems used at major intersections in other cities before creating the plan for Foley. The goal was to find a design that balances clear directions with a cleaner appearance. Officials said the new system reflects those efforts.

Currently, six signs and directional arrows are located at the southwest corner of the intersection. Once the project is complete, that number will be reduced to three. City leaders said the reduction will improve visibility and create a more organized look at the busy crossing.