FOLEY – A new gateway to Foley’s downtown arts alley will greet visitors on North Alston Street under plans approved by the City Council.
The council approved a professional services contract for WAS Design. Under the contract, the company will design a new entrance to Cat Alley from North Alston Street as part of the second phase of the project to improve the downtown walkway.
Cat Alley extends from West Laurel Avenue to West Jessamine Avenue between North McKenzie Street and North Alston Street.
Earlier work included lighting, landscaping, public seating and fencing. Foley Main Street, the city’s downtown improvement organization, also added murals by professional artists and local school students along the alley.
Cat Alley opened in 2023 as a public gathering place, events location and arts area. An extension leading from the alley to Alston Street was dedicated in 2024.
The alley is located near the former offices of the Gulf Telephone Company. Gulf Telephone owner John Snook and company employees often fed and supported the cats that lived near the alley.
The cats inspired the name of the walkway. Several murals now on the site include images of cats hidden in the artwork.