Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Work along Pilgrim Street in southeast Foley will soon include more improvements after the Foley City Council approved additional upgrades to the street extension and walking trail near Beulah Heights Park. The project is part of the city’s efforts to improve access while preserving natural features in the neighborhood. City leaders said the enhancement will benefit nearby residents who use the area regularly. The new work will include added lighting and extended sidewalks to make the trail safer and more useful for pedestrians.

During the Foley City Council meeting on November 4, 2025, members voted to move forward with upgrades to the Pilgrim Street extension. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said residents had long requested that the right-of-way be opened to improve local access. The project connects neighborhood streets with Beulah Heights Park, located in southeast Foley.

Hellmich said the original work included building a new street section with a sidewalk that transitions into a multi-use walking path leading to the park. Part of the extension was designed as a pedestrian trail rather than a full roadway to preserve large scenic oak trees along the route. The mayor explained that residents asked to keep the trees standing, prompting planners to modify the design.

To ensure safety, city engineers also made changes that keep vehicles off the walking path. Hellmich said the design prevents drivers from mistakenly turning onto the trail or using it as a shortcut. “They lined it up so a car won’t see that path and try to go down it,” he said during the meeting.

The newest phase of improvements will bring additional sidewalks and install lighting along the road and trail. “We did not have lights on this road,” Hellmich said. “We would like to add those to the road and we’d like to finish out the sidewalks.” City officials believe these additions will improve visibility and pedestrian access, especially for families using the park and nearby paths.

The Pilgrim Street extension and trail reflect Foley’s broader effort to enhance walkability while maintaining the city’s natural scenery. Officials said the planned upgrades are part of an ongoing commitment to neighborhood connectivity and safety in southeast Foley.