Happy fall season to all here in Foley. It is finally nice weather after a very hot summer. We are moving full speed ahead here at the city. Let me tell you about some things we have going on.

I am appreciative of the support of the City Council in addressing our growing city’s needs. The 2024 budget includes more than $50 million in capital projects, plus $22 million in carryovers from last year. These projects address quality of life, infrastructure, public safety and education. You will see these projects all around town.

Road construction on South Juniper and S.outhPecan streets should be finished before December. Both of these have been challenging. We are still waiting on outside approval on the County Road 12/Hwy. 59 intersection improvements and the repaving of the Foley Beach Express. We will give plenty of notice to citizens when they begin. I ask for your patience with this progress.

I’m happy to report that our long-awaited pickleball project is off the ground. The adjacent road is nearly constructed and court construction will begin soon.

Construction on the new Public Works campus is underway. Plans for the new library are moving forward. We expect to see construction on that begin in the spring of 2024. Several city parks are getting upgrades that include new bathrooms and playground equipment. There are more details on capital projects inside this newsletter and on our city website.

Downtown is thriving. Our award-winning Main Street program is rolling out both mural and Cat Alley projects. The city fully supports our historic downtown and its businesses. This is the heart of the city. Let’s please all remember to shop Downtown Foley!

We had a very successful visit from our friends from Hennef, Germany. They were impressed during their visits to Foley schools, celebrations, Collins/Ascend campus and surrounding areas. Thanks to everyone involved for their kind reception. Yet, as I tell folks, that’s who we are every day.

You have certainly noticed all the new businesses opening up, and several new ones under construction. Every new business gives residents another choice. We work hard to support our existing businesses while welcoming new ones. I congratulate OWA for their latest expansion, the new Tropic Falls RV Park. It is adjacent to the Sports Tourism facilities and offers another accommodations option for visitors.

I’m often reminded that ours is a caring community. We understand that connecting with our neighbors—checking on each other and calling when you see that someone needs help—benefits us all. These are challenging times in our world. Let’s continue to look out for each other.

The holidays are upon us! Let’s enjoy the season and our families. Remember to shop local. And, go Lions!