As plans move forward for Foley’s new indoor Aquatic Center, the city is preparing additional improvements at Max Griffin Park, where the facility will be built.
The Foley City Council approved plans to upgrade lighting at the park’s softball field, relocate overhead power lines underground and improve electrical infrastructure.
The plans also include exterior restrooms at the new Aquatic Center, allowing park visitors to access restroom facilities without entering the building.
Foley Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Lee said available funding will help support lighting improvements at the park.
“We would like to use this available funding and put LED lighting on the softball field that is going to remain in Max Griffin Park,” Lee told council members.
The project will allow $204,000 to be used for upgraded lighting and other park improvements.
As part of the project, the city will replace overhead power lines with an underground electrical system. Foley and Riviera Utilities will also work together to upgrade electrical service and transformers to accommodate the new Aquatic Center and lighting systems.
The indoor Aquatic Center will replace Foley’s municipal swimming pool, which opened at Max Griffin Park in 1953. The new facility will provide opportunities for swimming and other aquatic activities year-round.
City officials hope to seek construction bids later this year, with construction expected to take approximately 18 months once work begins.
The existing outdoor pool will remain open until the Aquatic Center is completed. After the new facility opens, the current pool will be replaced with another park amenity.