The Hotel Magnolia Restaurant served as the backdrop for the October meeting of Foley Main Street, where community leaders gathered to discuss recent achievements and upcoming initiatives aimed at revitalizing Downtown Foley.

Incoming Foley Main Street President Wes Abrams, Mayor Ralph Hellmich and Foley Main Street Executive Director Darrelyn Dunmore shared updates that showcased the collaborative efforts of local organizations.

Foley Main Street is a nationally accredited program focused on enhancing the vitality of Downtown Foley through its four strategic pillars: promotion, economic vitality, design and organization. Abrams emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance among these pillars to ensure continued community growth. He commended the effective teamwork among key partners, including the City of Foley, the Historic Commission, the Beautification Committee and community allies such as the Foley Art Center.

A highlight of the promotion pillar is the introduction of "Third Thursdays," a new monthly downtown event initiated by local businesses. Set for Nov. 21 from 5 to 7 p.m., the inaugural event will feature tastings, art displays and special promotions. Attendees can participate in a physical turkey hunt, where they will search for six hidden turkeys at various local businesses. Complementing this, a virtual Downtown Foley Turkey Hunt launched on Nov. 1 via the Foley Main Street Facebook page.

As the holiday season approaches, Downtown Foley Christmas Fest is scheduled for Dec. 7 following the Christmas parade. The event promises to be festive, featuring caroling by the Foley High School Choir and exclusive holiday specials from local merchants.

Abrams also reported on the economic vitality pillar, noting the addition of 16 new businesses in Downtown Foley this year, with two more on the horizon. The new Downtown Foley Arts and Entertainment District is set to officially open on Nov. 21, coinciding with the launch of the "Cat Alley Walkway."

During the meeting, attendees discussed the envision plan, a blueprint developed by Foley Main Street in collaboration with the city and Main Street Alabama. This plan outlines goals for downtown development, with Dunmore highlighting Foley Main Street's commitment to supporting local businesses through resources, façade grants and marketing assistance. The organization has also created a business development section on its website to further assist entrepreneurs.

In an effort to boost local businesses, Foley Main Street, in partnership with Main Street Alabama, will award five $1,000 marketing grants to businesses within the district by January 2025. Additionally, a pitch contest will be launched, offering a $10,000 grant opportunity for eligible businesses, with the winner advancing to regional and state competitions.

The design pillar was highlighted with plans for the installation of 11 wayfinding signs by the end of December, each featuring QR codes that link to Google Maps. The seating area at the Cat Alley Walkway has also been completed.

Hellmich concluded the meeting with updates on various capital projects, including a larger comfort station in Heritage Park and a planned WWII Museum Display. He also discussed the Downtown Foley oak tree lighting initiative, which will commence on Alston Street, and a collaborative project with downtown property owners to outline building tops with decorative lights.