Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Downtown Foley could see a major utility project with more than $2 million set aside for the work. The goal is to improve storm resiliency. City leaders say the project would help protect key services during major tropical storms.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt’s office said the funding was secured through the Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. Britt chairs the Subcommittee on Homeland Security Appropriations. The announcement was made in Washington, D.C.

The package includes $2.063 million for the City of Foley. According to the release, the funding would be used to bury vulnerable utilities before hurricanes. The money would cover construction and operating costs tied to the project.

Plans call for existing overhead utilities to be placed underground in downtown Foley. The work would cover six blocks, from West Magnolia Avenue to Myrtle Avenue. In total, the project area spans about 2,300 linear feet.

The release says the project is intended to speed recovery for residents after a tropical storm. It also aims to safeguard jobs and help restore the regional economy. Foley sits along the northern Gulf Coast, an area often threatened by tropical weather.

Britt said, “Alabama communities along the Gulf of America know well the destruction tropical storms can bring.” She added, “I’m proud to have secured over $2 million in federal funding to help the City of Foley strengthen its infrastructure before, during, and after major storms.”

She also said, “This investment will result in a safer, more resilient community.” Britt said she was eager to see the effect of the project across Foley and the broader region.

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich thanked Britt and said the funding reflects “a vital partnership between Congress, Foley and Riviera Utilities.” He added that underground utilities would protect the central corridor powering the hospital and downtown businesses.

Hellmich also called the award “a huge boost for our community.” He said the project would improve storm safety and support the continued beautification of Foley’s historic downtown. He added that Britt understood the community’s needs.

Britt’s office said it has secured more than $14.97 million for Alabama in Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security appropriations. The Foley utility project was one part of that statewide total.