Construction is underway on the final segment of a nearly four-mile sidewalk network along Alabama 59, marking another milestone in the City of Foley's work on connectivity, pedestrian safety and quality of life.

The project will complete the remaining 1.25-mile gap between Azalea Avenue and Pride Drive near Foley High School. Once finished, residents and visitors will have access to a continuous sidewalk stretching from Miflin Road (Baldwin County 20), south of Tanger Outlets, to Peachtree Avenue in north Foley.

The project represents years of planning, design work and coordination by the City of Foley, the municipality said in a press release. City staff secured outside funding through the federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), administered by the Alabama Department of Transportation. The grant covers 80% of construction costs, with the city providing the required local match.

"This project is the result of years of planning and persistence," Mayor Ralph Hellmich said. "Our staff has worked hard to pursue grant opportunities that allow us to maximize local tax dollars while continuing to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life for our residents. Completing this sidewalk network is another step toward creating a more connected Foley."

Foley has provided between $3 million and $4 million in municipal funding for sidewalks since 2022 in addition to money received from grant programs, such as TAP.

The Alabama 59 corridor serves as one of the city's primary transportation routes, connecting neighborhoods, schools, businesses and shopping destinations. Completing this final section creates safer and more convenient pedestrian access throughout one of Foley's busiest corridors, the city says.

The Alabama 59 project is part of a broader effort to expand pedestrian infrastructure citywide. Recognizing the importance of walkability, the Foley City Council has committed approximately $1 million annually in recent years toward sidewalk construction and expansion projects.

Recent improvements include the completion of sidewalks along North Cedar Street, creating pedestrian access from Peachtree Avenue to U.S. 98 to West Fern Avenue. Additional projects are also moving forward, including plans to extend sidewalks into the Mills community, connecting west Foley neighborhoods to the city's growing sidewalk network.