Foley, Ala. - (OBA) - In response to the growing healthcare needs of the population, officials in Foley are contemplating the establishment of a medical overlay district. The proposed district will center around South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, in the city's northern region, which is currently under a $200-million expansion to increase its capacity to 142 beds.

Wayne Dyess, the city's Executive Director of Planning and Infrastructure, suggested that the ongoing expansion of the hospital offers an opportune moment to stimulate the development of additional medical facilities in the vicinity. "We are seeking to foster a cluster of medical services close to the hospital, promoting synergy between the expanding hospital, potential growth, and the rising demand for medical care," said Dyess.

The plan is currently in its formative stages, and discussions have been held with developers and representatives of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance to further explore the proposal. Dyess pointed out that the goal is to incentivize a broader range of healthcare resources in the area, including ancillary services like assisted living facilities, to cater to the increasing population.

Dyess reassured that the creation of the medical overlay district would not interfere with the city's existing zoning. The envisioned district will primarily house healthcare-related establishments such as clinics, therapy facilities, and support services for the hospital. It will also accommodate ancillary medical uses, including residential care facilities and assisted living facilities. Dyess also noted that the district could include auxiliary services like food and coffee shops and temporary accommodations for healthcare workers, such as traveling nurses.

The South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, which has been serving the community since 1958, is located close to residential areas. According to Dyess, the proposed medical overlay district could act as a buffer against the encroachment of expanding medical offices into these neighborhoods.