Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Downtown Foley is seeing continued growth thanks to strong public and private investment. City officials and local business leaders are working together to improve infrastructure, attract visitors, and support small businesses. Foley Main Street, a nonprofit group focused on revitalizing downtown, hosted its annual meeting recently to highlight a year of progress. Mayor Ralph Hellmich praised the group’s work and promised additional enhancements ahead.

Between 2023 and 2024, investment in downtown rose nearly 29%, jumping from $12.85 million to $16.55 million. Several projects were completed this year, including the East Gate at Heritage Park and the extension of East Jessamine Avenue, both finished in May. The city also added new lighting at Heritage Park and plans to install overhead café lights above West Jessamine Avenue near Alabama 59.

Hellmich said the lighting will make downtown more welcoming and allow for street parties and events. Additional lighting will be added to trees to brighten dark areas. The city is also planning upgrades along South Chicago Street, connecting U.S. 98 to the new Foley Public Library now under construction.

Efforts are also underway to improve parking downtown. The Jessamine Avenue extension added 27 new public spaces. The city also purchased a parking lot near the southwest corner of Alabama 59 and U.S. 98. When completed, the new library will include more parking for visitors and downtown workers.

A recent parking survey revealed 2,700 free parking spaces in the downtown area. Hellmich said that while some may not be close to every business, parking is available and will continue to improve.

Foley Main Street also supports local businesses through workshops and marketing efforts. Two training sessions are scheduled this summer. One focuses on improving businesses’ visibility on Google and Bing Maps. The second helps staff build better customer service skills.

The group is also marking one year of its Third Thursday events, which promote local businesses each month. What began with six participants has grown to 23 businesses, with city support helping the event thrive.

This year, the city created the Downtown Arts and Entertainment District, allowing visitors to carry drinks from participating bars and restaurants within the district in special logo cups. The City Council approved the project for one year. Since no problems have been reported, the city plans to extend it.

Another highlight is the ongoing development of Cat Alley. This pedestrian walkway now includes murals, new furniture, and a path to Alston Street. Foley Main Street President Wes Abrams said none of the success would be possible without help from the city, sponsors, and volunteers.

Foley Main Street continues working to match businesses with available spaces and support existing stores. For more information, visit the Foley Main Street website.