FOLEY – Foley is enhancing public parking and beautifying downtown with the help of a contribution from Riviera Utilities and Energy Southeast Inc.
The Foley City Council approved the donation to help pay for improvements to the Dyas parking lot, located near the southwest corner of the intersection of Alabama 59 and U.S. 98. The city purchased the property earlier this year after leasing it for several years. Officials said the acquisition will provide long-term savings and ensure continued access to public parking in the downtown area.
The planned upgrades will support local businesses by offering convenient, accessible parking for customers, employees, and visitors. Enhancements will include streetscape features along Alabama 59 with new trees, flower beds, and shrubs, as well as landscaped islands within the lot to provide shade, visual appeal, and improved storm-water management. Drainage upgrades are also part of the project to help reduce runoff and enhance environmental performance.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the funding from Energy Southeast has played a key role in several city improvements, especially downtown revitalization efforts.
“These grants have been used in the past for various economic development projects throughout Foley,” Hellmich said. “Riviera provides this support annually, and we make sure it benefits our community in meaningful ways.”
Construction and landscaping work at the Dyas lot will begin soon as part of Foley’s ongoing efforts to make downtown more inviting and accessible.