FOLEY – The City of Foley is taking steps to enhance the pedestrian experience in its downtown area with the addition of decorative bollards and lighting features.
The Foley City Council approved the purchase of bollards designed to prevent vehicles from entering or parking in pedestrian-only zones. These installations aim to improve safety and aesthetics in popular walkable areas, including the recently improved Cat Alley.
“On our Cat Alley project, for example, we’ve had vehicles parking where people are meant to walk,” said Jeff Phillips, Foley’s construction project manager. “These new bollards are not only decorative—they’re functional, too. They’ll help prevent vehicles from encroaching on sidewalks and other pedestrian zones.”
The bollards will be customized to reflect the character of each area. In Cat Alley, for instance, bollards will feature a cat emblem, while other locations may display the official City of Foley logo. The selected design is also more cost-effective than previous concrete-filled models, making them a practical solution for wider use throughout downtown.
The design mirrors that of the bollards recently installed at the eastern entrance of Heritage Park. However, while the Heritage Park bollards feature rounded tops, the new models will have flat tops to allow for emblems and customization.
In addition to the bollards, the City Council has approved plans to seek bids for the installation of decorative string lighting over West Jessamine Avenue. The lighting will span the roadway between Alabama 59 and North Alston Street, near the north entrance to Cat Alley.
“The cafe-style lighting will add a welcoming atmosphere to the area,” Phillips said. “We’ve spent the past two years refining the plan, ensuring the correct height and structure to accommodate trucks and city vehicles. Now we’re ready to move forward with bids.”
These improvements are part of Foley’s ongoing commitment to making its downtown area more pedestrian-friendly, vibrant, and visually appealing for residents and visitors alike.