FOLEY – Crossing U.S. 98 in downtown Foley will soon be safer and more convenient thanks to a collaborative project between the City of Foley and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT).
The city and ALDOT have partnered to implement pedestrian safety enhancements along U.S. 98, also known as Laurel Avenue. These improvements will span from the intersection of Cedar Street, near Foley Elementary School, eastward to Chicago Street, close to Heritage Park.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich emphasized that this initiative aligns with Foley’s ongoing commitment to enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility.
“We are continuously working to upgrade pedestrian safety across our entire city,” Hellmich said. “This is another great step.”
In addition to this project, the Foley City Council has allocated $1 million in each of the last two budgets to expand sidewalks throughout the city.
Under the agreement, ALDOT will cover approximately 90% of the cost for the U.S. 98 pedestrian improvements.
Key crossings set for enhancement include Cedar Street, Oak Street, Pine Street, Chicago Street and the Rose Trail at Heritage Park. Notably, three of these locations are near Foley Elementary and Foley Middle schools, where many students cross the highway daily.
Planned upgrades include the installation of flashing beacons at multiple intersections to alert drivers when pedestrians are present. Additional enhancements will involve improved access to nearby driveways, raised medians, and additional signage.
According to ALDOT data, traffic on U.S. 98 through Foley averaged more than 8,500 vehicles per day in 2023. Since 2020, five traffic accidents have been reported along the stretch between Cedar and Chicago streets.
These improvements will provide a safer and more accessible environment for pedestrians, ensuring a safer commute for students and residents alike.