A city initiative is helping keep downtown sidewalks cleaner and brighter as part of ongoing efforts to enhance Foley’s historic business district.

Crews recently completed soft washing along North and South Alston streets and Laurel Avenue west of Alston Street on the evenings of Sept. 24 and 25. Work began after 8 p.m. to avoid disrupting businesses and foot traffic in the area.

The project, approved by the Foley Beautification and Revitalization Committee, was coordinated with Foley Main Street, the city’s downtown improvement organization. Both groups have worked together in recent years to maintain and refresh public spaces.

In addition to the latest cleaning, crews have washed other heavily traveled downtown spots, including the sidewalks near the Foley Welcome Center at the intersection of U.S. 98 and Alabama 59.

The sidewalk cleaning program began about three years ago and quickly gained support from downtown merchants, residents and visitors who welcomed the brighter, cleaner look. City officials plan to continue the effort on a yearly schedule to help preserve the appearance and walkability of Foley’s historic downtown.