Foley’s municipal airport will soon carry the name of one of the city’s most influential leaders after the City Council approved renaming the facility Holk Field at Foley Municipal Airport in recognition of former Mayor Arthur Holk.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the decision reflects Holk’s long record of public service and his role in shaping the city’s aviation presence.

“Arthur had such a connection with the airport. He was literally the first person to land a plane at that airport,” Hellmich said. “He was very instrumental in the creation and development of Foley Municipal Airport. Renaming it Holk Field at Foley Municipal Airport is very appropriate.”

Holk served five terms on the Foley City Council from 1952 to 1972, then held the mayor’s office for five terms from 1976 to 1996. His mark on local aviation dates to 1967 when he became the first pilot to touch down at the newly opened airport, a milestone that city officials still cite as part of Foley’s development into a regional hub.

The city plans to install a new sign with the Holk Field designation at 510 Airport Drive near Underwood Road (Baldwin County 24), about five miles from Tanger Outlet Center and roughly 15 miles from the Gulf beaches. A dedication ceremony is expected sometime this month or in January and will include members of the Holk family.

The renaming follows a broader effort to highlight Foley’s history and its longtime civic leaders as the area continues to grow.