Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Crews in Foley are busy changing the look of the city’s main roads for the winter season. Workers are removing warm-weather flowers and putting in new plants that can handle colder nights. The work is part of the city’s landscaping schedule. Drivers can see changes along town routes.

City officials said winter plantings are usually done in November, before the start of the Christmas holiday season. The plants are scheduled to be in place ahead of events such as Christmas in the Park and the Foley Christmas Parade on the first weekend in December.

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Several times a year, the Foley Horticulture Department teams up with crews from Landscape Workshop to replace decorative plants around the city. New species are chosen that are suited to each season, so beds can stay colorful in summer heat and in winter cold.

Much of the work is focused on some of Foley’s most visible public spaces. Crews are planting beds at the Foley Welcome Center and Centennial Park. Workers are also updating landscaping at the city flagpole on Alabama 59 and near the Foley Art Center and Pedestrian Bridge.

New plants are going in along Chicago Street and at key intersections on Alabama 59 and U.S. 98. The city is also placing winter flowers in the beds around gateway signs, giving visitors a bright welcome as they drive into Foley from every direction.

At least 14 varieties of winter plants are part of the current project, according to the city. Using many types allows horticulture staff to mix colors, heights and textures in each bed. The goal is to keep major routes attractive for residents, businesses and tourists during the colder months.

The seasonal changeout is repeated several times a year. In warmer months, beds hold plants that can stand up to high temperatures and strong sun. As winter approaches, those flowers are removed and replaced with species that can survive lower light and cooler air.

The Foley Revitalization and Beautification Advisory Board oversees the seasonal planting program. The board helps guide decisions on how public spaces look, from street corners to gateways. Members work with city staff to make sure plant choices fit the climate and match the character of Foley’s neighborhoods and districts.

At the Foley Welcome Center, workers can be seen placing new plants in beds that greet people arriving from Laurel Avenue and McKenzie Street. City officials said these highly visible locations are important first impressions for guests. The plantings also give residents a brighter view on their daily drives.

With the holiday season approaching, the city wants its parks, walkways and main corridors to look their best. The winter flowers are expected to remain in place through the colder months. When spring returns, crews will again change out the beds as Foley’s seasonal planting cycle continues.