Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is moving forward with plans for a new industrial park. The project aims to boost economic growth and create jobs in the area. The city plans to acquire a 121-acre parcel near Foley Beach Express, with nearly $3.33 million in state grants helping to cover the cost.

The Alabama Industrial Development Authority approved the grant on Thursday, March 19. State officials announced the funding at the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Series. The money comes from Alabama's SEEDS program — short for Site Evaluation Economic Development Strategy.

Gov. Kay Ivey said the project will be a major benefit for Foley and the state. "Alabama is making smart, targeted investments to ensure communities like Foley continue to compete and win," Ivey said. She mentioned the SEEDS program is helping position the 121-acre site for long-term growth.

Ivey stated that Alabama will continue working to create good jobs and opportunities throughout the entire state. "Alabama will not be slowing down when it comes to bringing good jobs and opportunities to every corner of our state," she said.

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich stated that the city needed more space for industrial growth. "This announcement is a great step forward for Foley," Hellmich said. He thanked city staff and partners, including Baldwin Alliance, Riviera Utilities, EMC, Alabama Economic Development, and Gov. Ivey.

Hellmich stated that a state committee reviewed 16 potential industrial sites across Alabama before selecting the Foley location. The site near the southwest corner of the Foley Beach Express and Baldwin Beach Express was rated the best among all options reviewed.

Foley has expanded rapidly in recent years. It is now the fastest-growing city in Alabama and ranks seventh in the United States. As more businesses have moved in, space in the city's existing industrial park has filled up, making the new site even more important.

Lee Lawson, president and CEO of Baldwin Alliance, said having ready-to-use development sites is crucial for the area's future. "This is a major win for Foley and Baldwin County," Lawson said. He described the SEEDS grant as a strategic investment in the community's future.

Lawson said the grant will help attract large-scale industries that create high-paying jobs for the region. Baldwin Alliance said it plans to continue collaborating with state and local partners to strengthen the economy and develop long-term opportunities for residents of Foley and Baldwin County.

The SEEDS grant for Foley is part of a broader statewide initiative. Since the beginning of this year, Governor Ivey has announced $15.7 million in funding to support 21 industrial sites across Alabama. This is the third round of the SEEDS program.

The program prepares industrial sites for immediate use by purchasing land, clearing, grading, conducting environmental surveys, and improving infrastructure. Over three years, SEEDS combined with required local matches has mobilized a total of $138 million in investment across 77 sites statewide.

Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised the Foley project. "The SEEDS program is about ensuring communities have the tools they need to compete and win," McNair said. She highlighted that the North Foley Industrial Park project demonstrates strong leadership in the region.

McNair stated that the investment enhances Baldwin County's position as a top destination for high-impact economic growth in Alabama. She noted that Foley's strategy for developing the site demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of modern industrial companies.