FOLEY – As construction moves forward on Foley’s new library, the city is also planning streetscape improvements to better connect the site with Heritage Park and other downtown destinations.
The city is preparing to go out for bids on upgrades to Chicago Street from U.S. 98 south to Orange Avenue. The project will continue the city’s efforts to enhance the downtown area through beautification and improved pedestrian access.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the work will build on recent projects, such as the extension of Jessamine Street and the new walkways and gates at Heritage Park.
“This corridor on Chicago Street is very important,” Hellmich said. “The work at Jessamine Street really improved the east side of that area. We’re also looking at Orange Avenue going east and Cypress Street as part of this quadrant around the new library.”
Plans call for the streetscape project to be completed in time for the library’s opening in 2026.
“All of this corridor will be similar to what we’ve done on the north side,” Hellmich said. “We hope to start the project and complete it with the library, so everything is finished when the library opens. This will be another phase in our ongoing streetscape improvements downtown.”
The new Foley Public Library will include about 40,000 square feet of space—roughly twice the size of the current facility.
Taylor Davis, deputy city engineer, said the Chicago Street improvements will include new walkways, green spaces, and additional street trees.
“This project is not just a streetscape project, but also a traffic-calming effort and a gateway into the new library,” Davis said.
Brick pavers, decorative columns, and lighting—similar to those near Heritage Park—will be incorporated into the design. Foley is working with Riviera Utilities on the decorative lighting.
City Councilman Charles Ebert III said he supports the project but raised concerns about the potential loss of parking spaces in the area.
“It’s going to be a nice beautification project,” Ebert said. “We’ll just have to see how it works out with the number of spaces we’re losing. Long term, we need to make sure there’s enough parking if the post office building is ever used for another purpose.”
Hellmich said the city plans to add more parking nearby, including on Cypress Street and in the alley behind the library site.
“We’re looking at adding another 20 to 25 spaces as part of the project,” Hellmich said.
Wayne Dyess, executive director of infrastructure and development, said the city has additional opportunities to add parking if needed.
“We have wide rights of way on several nearby streets that could accommodate more parking,” Dyess said. “That gives us flexibility for the future.”