Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Foley plans to add new features to Wolf Creek Park. A state grant will help fund the work. Plans include an elevated boardwalk and an observation tower. The project also calls for a parking area and additional signage.

Gov. Kay Ivey announced the $168,620 grant as one of six awards under the federal Recreational Trails Program. The six grants total about $1.2 million and will fund work to build or improve recreational trails across Alabama. Other municipalities receiving grants include Anniston, Decatur, Garden City, Melton and Sylvania.

Foley will use its grant to build a 115-foot elevated boardwalk, an observation tower, and a parking area at Wolf Creek Park. The boardwalk and parking area will comply with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

The city will also install additional signs at the park and provide $40,905 in local matching funds for the project.

Wolf Creek Park spans 20 acres on Hance Road, south of Baldwin County 20. Its features include a canoe and kayak launch, a fishing pier, picnic tables, and a small pavilion.

“These projects will encourage exercise and boost the quality of life for residents,” Ivey said. “I am pleased to award these funds, which will help create new opportunities for residents and visitors alike to appreciate the state’s natural beauty.”

The Recreational Trails Program receives funding from the Federal Highway Administration. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) manages the program in Alabama.

“Well-maintained trails are beneficial to people of all ages and make communities more attractive places to live,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of these projects offering new ways to enjoy the outdoors.”

Beyond recreational programs, ADECA manages programs supporting law enforcement, economic development, energy conservation, and water resource management.