Drivers in Foley will soon see improved visibility at several locations after the City Council approved the installation of new street lights aimed at reducing hazards and improving safety.

One of the most significant additions will illuminate the intersection of James Road and Baldwin County 12, where a four-way stop was installed in early 2025. The stop sign was added after traffic patterns shifted during construction of intersection improvements at Baldwin County 12 and Alabama 59.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the intersection remains difficult to navigate, particularly at night, and some drivers are still adjusting to the new traffic control.

"The point is that it is a dark intersection and every improvement for safety that we can make would be good," Hellmich said. "This is one of these new four-way stops where people have to learn to be attentive."

Baldwin EMC will install an LED street light and a transformer on an existing utility pole at the intersection. LED lighting is commonly used by utilities for its energy efficiency, longer lifespan and improved visibility compared to older fixtures.

The lighting project comes as the city and Baldwin County continue working together on a longer-term transportation plan for the area. Officials are coordinating on a joint project to extend James Road south from its current endpoint at Brinks Willis Road near the County 12 intersection toward Gulf Shores, a move expected to improve connectivity and traffic flow as the region grows.

The council also approved a street light at the entrance to Meadow Run Estates subdivision. City Engineer Taylor Davis said the Meadow Run Estates Home Owners Association requested the light to improve visibility and safety for residents and visitors. Baldwin EMC will handle the installation.

Another street light was approved for a location near 525 Hamilton Boulevard. That light will be installed on an existing pole by Riviera Utilities.