Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The City of Foley is planning a series of upgrades at the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market and the city’s sports tourism complex. City officials said the improvements will add new amenities for visitors and vendors. The projects are intended to support both recreation and local business growth. Plans include new facilities, expanded features, and aesthetic upgrades at both locations.

The Foley City Council recently approved proposals to design a commercial kitchen at the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market. The city will also move forward with installing permanent restrooms and other property-wide enhancements. These improvements will take place at both the market and the Foley Sports Tourism multi-use fields complex.

Expansion plans include several new recreational and visual features for the market. A scenic detention pond and a new fountain are part of the project. The fountain will face Baldwin County 20 and is expected to serve as a landmark. A walking path will also be added for visitors.

David Thompson, executive director for leisure services, said combining projects could reduce costs. "The bid for the restroom facility for the CAFFM will be combined with one for the Sports Tourism Fields so we can reduce some overhead and make it more attractive for bidders," Thompson said. He said the work will include two restroom buildings.

One restroom facility will be built between the pickleball courts and the beach volleyball court at the market, and the second will be constructed at the city soccer fields near Juniper Street. Thompson said the sports complex restrooms will replace the temporary facilities, which are no longer adequate.

The commercial kitchen is expected to help local food businesses grow. City officials said it will serve as an incubator for entrepreneurs. The space will provide vendors with professional equipment and infrastructure. It is intended to help businesses expand and meet demand.

"We view this kitchen as a vital resource for our community," Thompson said. "It will not only assist the market's daily operations but also serve as a 'jump start' for local culinary businesses looking to expand."

Under the approved resolution, McCollough Architects will prepare plans for the kitchen project. The Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market is at 781 Farmers’ Market Lane in Foley and operates each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.