Foley breaks ground on new library, community center

GCM Staff Report
Posted 2/3/25

City leaders and residents gathered Thursday, Jan. 30, to break ground on Foley's new library and community center, a 40,000-square-foot facility that will double the size of the city's current …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Subscribe to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Get the gift of local news. All subscriptions 50% off for a limited time!

You can cancel anytime.
 

Please log in to continue

Log in

Foley breaks ground on new library, community center

Posted

City leaders and residents gathered Thursday, Jan. 30, to break ground on Foley's new library and community center, a 40,000-square-foot facility that will double the size of the city's current library and provide modern spaces for learning, gathering and recreation.

The ceremony took place at 11 a.m. at the site of the future building, located at 230 E. Orange Ave., next to the Foley Dog Park. Once completed, the two-story facility will serve as both a library and a community hub, expanding services and resources for all ages.

The ground floor will include a dedicated children's area with computers and an activity room for storytimes and educational programs. A multipurpose room, designed for meetings and events, will also be part of the first floor.

Upstairs, the adult section will feature computer labs, additional study rooms and private workspaces. Teens will have their own dedicated area, and plans include a STEAM-STEM lab to support programs in science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

Previous reports also indicated the building would include a bookstore, though it was not mentioned in the latest project details.

Beyond its library services, the facility will offer spaces for special-needs programs and other community-focused activities.

Gulf Coast Media previously reported in 2024 that Foley City Council voted Nov. 18 to accept a nearly $18 million bid from White-Spunner Construction to build the facility. Foley Public Library Director Kate Norris said the bid came in under the city's initial $22 million projection, resulting in savings.

"We had originally planned this project to be about $22 million," Norris said at that time.

According to the article, the bid does not cover additional costs such as furniture, audiovisual equipment and architectural fees.

The new library will replace the current facility near City Hall and represents a major investment in Foley's educational and recreational resources. City officials anticipate the expanded space will provide residents with enhanced opportunities for engagement, study and collaboration.