Construction is underway on the final segment of a nearly four-mile sidewalk network along Alabama 59, marking another milestone in the City of Foley’s long-term commitment to improving connectivity, pedestrian safety and quality of life.
The project will complete the remaining 1.25-mile gap between Azalea Avenue and Pride Drive near Foley High School. Once finished, residents and visitors will have access to a continuous sidewalk stretching from Miflin Road (Baldwin County 20), south of Tanger Outlets, to Peachtree Avenue in north Foley.
The project represents years of planning, design work and coordination by the City of Foley. City staff have worked diligently to secure outside funding through the federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), administered by the Alabama Department of Transportation. The grant covers 80 percent of construction costs, with the City providing the required local match.
“This project is the result of years of planning and persistence,” said Mayor Ralph Hellmich. “Our staff has worked hard to pursue grant opportunities that allow us to maximize local tax dollars while continuing to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life for our residents. Completing this sidewalk network is another step toward creating a more connected Foley.”
The Alabama 59 project is part of a broader effort to expand pedestrian infrastructure citywide. Recognizing the importance of walkability, the Foley City Council has committed approximately $3 million to $4 million since 2022 toward sidewalk construction and expansion projects.
The Alabama 59 project is part of a broader effort to expand pedestrian infrastructure citywide. Recognizing the importance of walkability, the Foley City Council has committed approximately $1 million annually in recent years toward sidewalk construction and expansion projects.
Recent improvements include the completion of sidewalks along North Cedar Street, creating pedestrian access from Peachtree Avenue to U.S. 98 to West Fern Avenue. Additional projects are also moving forward, including plans to extend sidewalks into the Mills community, connecting west Foley neighborhoods to the city’s growing sidewalk network.
By combining local investment with competitive grant funding, Foley continues to build infrastructure that enhances safety, encourages healthy lifestyles and strengthens connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks and commercial areas throughout the community.