FOLEY – Pedestrian access continues to improve along one of Foley’s busiest corridors, thanks to a new sidewalk expansion project approved by the Foley City Council.
The council recently approved funding to extend sidewalks on Alabama Highway 59 from Roosevelt Avenue to East Azalea Avenue—a span of approximately four blocks. This extension brings the city closer to completing a continuous pedestrian route from downtown Foley to the Azalea area.
“This project completes most of the sidewalk network north of Azalea,” said Mayor Ralph Hellmich. “There may be one small gap remaining, but we’re working to close that as well.”
City Administrator Mike Thompson noted that one undeveloped parcel is not currently included in the sidewalk program. However, once development occurs on that property, the developer will be required to install sidewalks, completing the connection.
Future sidewalk expansions are also in the works. Mayor Hellmich said the City is actively pursuing federal funding through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) to extend sidewalks southward to Pride Drive, near Foley High School.
“We’re working on it,” Hellmich said. “This new section is part of a larger effort, and with TAP grant support, we’ll eventually connect all the way to Pride Drive and link up with existing trails in the area.”
The project, which the City Council began planning in 2024, will include newly designed 6-foot-wide sidewalks and ADA-compliant ramps to ensure accessibility for all residents.