Foley's historic downtown continues to thrive with support from the city, business owners and residents, as recent improvements draw new investments and businesses to the area.

Darrelyn Dunmore, executive director of Foley Main Street, recently presented an annual report to Foley City Council, highlighting the progress made since the organization launched in 2018. She said the city's investment in downtown revitalization has helped spur private development.

"Right now, there's $3,267,000 that has been input by the city for investment into the downtown just since Main Street began," Dunmore said. "We know you did a lot of work before that. In this time period, the private investment is now at $14,687,000."

She noted that for every public dollar spent, $4.50 of private money has gone into downtown improvements, reinforcing the return on investment.

Among the latest enhancements is the newly opened Cat Alley extension, a pedestrian walkway and public seating area that transformed a previously fenced-off space between the main alley and North Alston Street. The city also established a downtown Arts and Entertainment District, allowing patrons to carry drinks from local restaurants and bars as they explore the area.

In December, a new LED lighting initiative brightened downtown as the city partnered with Foley Main Street and local business owners to install lights along building facades. That same month, the historic Foley Bakery building, which dates back to 1925, reopened following renovations, with Colt Grill launching in the revitalized space.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich praised the ongoing improvements, pointing to the influx of new businesses as a sign of progress.

"Y'all are really getting things done," Hellmich told Dunmore during the council meeting. "There is just so much happening downtown with the opening of various new restaurants and other things. It's all just really impressive."

Foley's efforts will soon be on display for state officials as representatives from Main Street Alabama visit in March for a downtown tour and training session. Dunmore said the city has made substantial progress since the organization's last visit, with once-boarded-up buildings now fully renovated and occupied.

"We can really highlight what we've accomplished," she said. "The last time they were all here, all we had was a boarded up plywood and brick building on the corner of Alston and Laurel. It's going to be great to show them everything we've accomplished."

Foley Main Street, part of the Main Street Alabama program, aims to preserve the city's historic character while promoting economic growth. As the southernmost participant in the statewide initiative, Foley is working to ensure its downtown remains a vibrant hub for businesses and visitors alike.