FOLEY — Foley’s municipal airport has a new name honoring one of the city’s long-time public servants.
The Foley City Council has approved renaming the facility Holk Field at Foley Municipal Airport in recognition of former Mayor Arthur Holk.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the new name reflects Holk’s deep connection to aviation and to the city’s growth.
“Arthur had such a connection with the airport. He was literally the first person to land a plane at that airport,” Hellmich said. “He was very instrumental in the creation and development of Foley Municipal Airport. Renaming it Holk Field at Foley Municipal Airport is very appropriate.”
Holk served five terms on the Foley City Council from 1952 to 1972 and five terms as mayor from 1976 to 1996. He was the first pilot to land an airplane at the new Foley Municipal Airport when it opened in 1967.
The city will install a new sign at the airport displaying the Holk Field name. A dedication ceremony is planned for December or January and will include members of the Holk family.
Holk Field at Foley Municipal Airport is located at 510 Airport Drive, near Underwood Road (Baldwin County 24), about five miles from the Tanger Outlet Center and approximately 15 miles from the Gulf beaches.