Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  The City of Foley is moving ahead with a new industrial site. City leaders said it could create jobs and revenue for Foley and Alabama. State funding will help purchase the land. Officials called the purchase an investment in the area's future.

On Monday, June 1, 2026, Greg Blalock of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama presented Foley with a check for nearly $3.33 million. The grant was awarded through the state's Site Evaluation Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) program.

The money will help purchase a 121-acre parcel that will become Baldwin County's newest industrial development property. The site is a joint project among Foley, Baldwin Alliance, and the State of Alabama.

Foley purchased the property near the southwest corner of the intersection of the Foley Beach Express and the Baldwin Beach Express. The site is also on the Foley Beach Express east of the intersection with Alabama 59.

Gov. Kay Ivey said the project will benefit the city and region. "Foley and Baldwin County are among the fastest-growing areas not just in Alabama but in the nation," Ivey said in a statement.

"This targeted investment in development guarantees sustainable economic growth and quality jobs for the region," she said. Ivey said the SEEDS program's goal was to help communities acquire and prepare industrial spaces.

The Alabama Industrial Development Authority approved a grant to cover part of the purchase price. Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the project is an investment in Foley's economy and the community's future. "As our area develops, this will provide opportunities for quality employment for not only our current residents but also upcoming generations," Hellmich said. He said new industries and businesses will need places where they can build.

Hellmich said Foley's current industrial park is filling up as the city grows. He said the project reflects the work of Foley, Baldwin Alliance, Alabama Economic Development, Gov. Kay Ivey, Riviera Utilities, Baldwin EMC, and other supporters.

Hellmich said, "This is another example of how we are working with the state and county to improve our economy and prepare for the future." Lee Lawson of Baldwin Alliance said that industries are seeking sites like Foley's.

Lee Lawson, president and chief executive officer of Baldwin Alliance, said, "This is a major win for Foley and for Baldwin County." He added that development-ready sites are critical for attracting large-scale, high-impact industries and quality, high-paying jobs.

State Sen. Chris Elliott said that past county investment in the Mega Site and the success of the Novelis project underscored the importance of development-ready sites in global competition. He said the Legislature's SEEDS strategy encourages the same foresight among local communities.

Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair said, "We know that U.S. and global manufacturers are seeking spaces where they'll find the prepared infrastructure, trained workforce, and proximity to transportation thoroughfares they need to be successful."

She said Foley and Baldwin County leaders should be commended for creating a space that meets those needs. A state committee determined that the Foley property was the best among 16 potential industrial sites in Alabama.

The release said Foley is among the fastest-growing cities in Alabama and the United States. It said demand for development-ready industrial sites continues to grow, making the investment important for growth and for attracting new employers.

Other recent SEEDS funding announcements also included sites in Covington County and Colbert County.