FOLEY – The City of Foley is proud to announce the reopening of North Chicago Street and opening of the newly extended East Jessamine Avenue, following a nine-month enhancement project at Heritage Park.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich and city leaders dedicated the improvements on Friday, marking another milestone in Foley’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts. The upgrades significantly enhance pedestrian access throughout the heart of the city.

“We’ve added a continuous sidewalk that now connects City Hall to Foley Middle School, running directly through Heritage Park,” said Mayor Hellmich. “The Centennial Clock Tower remains the central point of the park, and with these improvements, we now have symmetrical walkways extending in all directions.”

The project, part of a long-term streetscape initiative, includes:

  • A new eastern brick gateway and column entrance that complements existing entrances on all sides of the park

  • Extension of East Jessamine Avenue from Heritage Park to Cypress Street

  • A pedestrian pathway linking Foley City Hall to the pedestrian bridge over Alabama 59

  • Decorative black LED lighting installed along Jessamine Avenue in partnership with Riviera Utilities

  • Additional landscaping, including six new trees to be planted by the Foley Horticulture Department

  • Approximately 20 new downtown parking spaces along the Jessamine extension

North Chicago Street, which had been closed during construction, is now fully reopened. To improve traffic flow and safety, two new four-way stop signs have been installed at East Jessamine’s intersections with North Chicago Street and North Cypress Street.

“This was more than just opening a new street,” Mayor Hellmich said. “It was a collaborative effort involving multiple city departments, council members, and community input. The result is a beautiful, functional addition to our downtown area that reflects 15 years of planning and vision.”

The enhancements not only improve connectivity and safety for pedestrians but also contribute to the continued beautification of Foley’s vibrant downtown district.

For more information on city projects and updates, visit www.cityoffoley.org.