Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – New sidewalks will be built on Ninth Avenue and other areas using money from a Transportation Alternatives Program grant approved recently.

After a wait of over three years, Foley is set to commence the expansion and construction of sidewalks spanning more than 1.5 miles. This initiative aims to connect Foley schools to the rapidly growing residential zones.

The project received a green light with the approval of a grant from the Alabama Department of Transportation under the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). The primary objective of this grant is to enhance pedestrian and bicycle access, particularly between Foley High School, Mathis Elementary School, and the western region of South Hickory Street.

TAP's vision is to ensure safer walking and cycling paths for students and residents, bridging the gap between homes, educational institutions, commercial hubs, and recreational spots. As part of this initiative, Ninth Avenue will see the construction of approximately 3,300 feet of new 10-foot-wide concrete pathways. Additionally, existing sidewalks on Ninth Avenue and South Pine Street, currently 4 feet wide, will be expanded to 10 feet, covering a distance of 1,195 feet. South Hickory Street will also undergo an upgrade, with its 3,860 feet of 5-foot-wide sidewalks being widened to 10 feet.

City representatives have indicated that they will be inviting bids for the project within the next month or two. It's worth noting that the City Council had given its nod to this project back in 2020, and the official go-ahead from ALDOT came through on September 15, 2023.