Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley Main Street held its biannual "Idea Exchange" meeting, drawing elected officials, board members, volunteers, and local entrepreneurs to downtown Foley, Alabama. Led by Executive Director Wes Abrams, the event celebrated new funding, new technology tools, and a wave of new businesses. The gathering highlighted what organizers described as a historic stretch of growth for the district. Supporters and community partners filled the room to mark recent progress.

The meeting took place on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, following months of strong momentum for the nonprofit organization. Foley Main Street reported securing more than $44,000 in grants and program funding since November 1, 2025. That total includes $14,000 for advertising, downtown promotion, and expanded evening programming, as well as $10,000 for economic development education.

In spring 2026, an additional $20,000 was awarded to fund decorative crosswalks in the downtown area. The crosswalks are designed to beautify the district and make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists. The projects reflect a broader push to make downtown Foley more walkable and welcoming.

Abrams spoke during the welcome address about the organization's role in connecting businesses with available properties. "A large portion of what we do is economic development — matching businesses to buildings and working closely with property owners and investors," he said. "The growth we are seeing is a direct result of these partnerships and a shared vision for a vibrant, walkable downtown."

One of the biggest announcements at the meeting was the official launch of the Downtown Foley Digital Passport. The geolocation-based mobile tool lets visitors earn points as they explore downtown shops and restaurants. Those points can be redeemed for rewards, giving shoppers more reason to stay and explore. The launch aligns with the strong momentum of "Third Thursdays," which has seen record attendance in recent months.

Foley Main Street has also reported hosting four professional workshops since its last biannual gathering. The workshops equipped downtown business owners with the skills and tools to compete in a competitive market. The organization said that supporting the people behind local storefronts is just as important as attracting new ones.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich also addressed the crowd, providing updates on key municipal projects reshaping the downtown landscape. He highlighted progress on the new Foley Library, plans to move utilities underground to improve appearance and reliability, and an upcoming upgrade to the Dyas parking lot. These projects are expected to further support growth in the district.

The meeting also formally welcomed 12 new businesses that have joined the Foley Main Street family since November 2025. The new additions are Baldwin County Resources LLC, Beyond Measure Therapy, Grounded-Foley, Half Shell Oyster House, Lillian's Closet, Magnolia Salon, Melissa's Kitchen, Nerd Out, Quality Alterations, Storyfuse, Waffles R Wild-The SpeakEasy, and Wild Daisy Hair Salon.

Foley Main Street is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing and growing downtown Foley. The group builds community partnerships and supports local businesses while honoring the city's history and looking toward its future.