Foley's efforts to revitalize its downtown with a new green space and floral trail earned the city a prestigious state award, highlighting the community's dedication to preserving its historic charm while promoting economic growth.

At the 11th-annual Awards of Excellence Banquet in Monroeville, Foley was honored with the Planning and Public Space Award of Excellence by Main Street Alabama. The award recognized the city's completion of the Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail, a project that transformed an underused parking area into a connector for the scenic trail that winds through the heart of downtown.

The Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail, originally opened in 2007, follows the former track of the L&N Railroad line, offering a picturesque walking path filled with antique roses, native plants and flowers. The recent project connected the trail's north and south sections with a new walkway between East Laurel Avenue and East Orange Avenue.

Local businesses on the west side of the trail have already noticed an increase in visitors since the completion of the project, which has helped boost the economic vibrancy of the downtown district.

In addition to the city's award, Foley Main Street celebrated another achievement at the event. Chad Watkins, president of Foley Main Street since its inception in 2018, was named the 2023-24 Main Street Hero. Watkins, known for his humor and leadership, has been instrumental in guiding the organization's efforts to revitalize downtown Foley. His contributions, including his landscape design expertise, have provided invaluable support to multiple downtown projects.

"If there is a hiccup in any of the Foley Main Street strategies, Chad does not hesitate. He asks what he can do, who he can talk to and what support can he give," said Darrelyn Dunmore, executive director of Foley Main Street Inc. "He has Downtown Foley's back and mine. You cannot ask for anything more from a president."

The annual Main Street Alabama event, sponsored by Alabama Municipal Electric Authority and the University of West Alabama Division of Economic and Workforce Development, recognized outstanding projects and individuals from across the state. Main Street Alabama President and State Coordinator Mary Helmer Wirth praised the honorees for their significant contributions to their communities.

"Last night's event was a heartwarming celebration of the remarkable achievements of our local Main Street programs," Wirth said. "The inspiring success stories shared at the event truly highlighted the essence of community spirit and collaboration. It's a testament to the effectiveness of Main Street's Four-Point Approach in fostering economic development and preserving historic areas."

Foley Main Street's recognition is part of a broader effort by the organization to increase awareness and economic vibrancy in the downtown district. As a Main Street America™ Accredited program, Foley Main Street is recognized as a leader among more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities nationwide that are committed to creating high-quality places through preservation-based economic development.

For more information on Foley Main Street and its initiatives, visit www.foleymainstreet.com.