Foley Fire Station Set for Major Renovations
FOLEY – Foley’s main fire station is slated for a series of significant upgrades and renovations following approval by the Foley City Council.
Originally constructed as a warehouse for the Gulf Telephone Company in the 1980s, the building now serves as the central hub for the Foley Fire Department. At approximately 40 years old, the facility is showing signs of age and in need of modernization.
David Wilson, Foley’s executive director of public safety, emphasized the importance of the updates. “We have outstanding personnel and top-notch equipment,” Wilson said. “Now, it’s time for the facility to reflect that same standard.”
The renovation plan begins with the replacement of the aging sheet metal exterior, much of which dates back to the original construction. Foley Fire Chief Joey Darby noted that the condition of the east side of the building is a particular concern and will be addressed first.
That area is also the planned location for a new Safe Haven baby box — a secure, anonymous drop-off site for infants. To ensure the installation proceeds smoothly, structural improvements must be completed in advance.
“Obviously, we didn’t want to start cutting for the baby box and then have to come back and replace the metal,” said Darby. “This will take care of that.”
The renovation will also include replacing any damaged insulation discovered during the project, as well as installing new gutters. The current gutter system was heavily damaged during Hurricane Sally in 2020, contributing to water issues on both sides of the building.
“Hurricane Sally pretty much took care of our gutters,” Darby said. “This project will replace them and help protect the structure going forward.”
Future phases of the renovation will address the station’s interior. Work will be carefully phased to allow firefighters to remain in the building and continue emergency services throughout the process.
These improvements represent a significant step in ensuring the city’s emergency response infrastructure remains strong, safe, and capable of serving the Foley community for years to come.