City planners are set to engage with residents and officials in Foley during the month of February, marking a significant step in the formulation of a strategic plan aimed at steering the community's growth and development. The plan, once finalized, will serve as a roadmap for the city's future, outlining key goals and objectives while aiding in the efficient allocation of resources.

To foster community involvement, Foley will host three community forums on Feb. 7 and 8 at various locations across the city. Residents will have the opportunity to engage with organizers, sharing insights on Foley's forthcoming challenges and opportunities.

The initial forum is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 7, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Graham Creek Nature Preserve located at 23030 Wolf Bay Drive. On Thursday, Feb. 8, two additional forums will take place – the first from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Foley Senior Center (304 East Rose Ave.), and the second from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Well at the Foley United Methodist Church (915 North Pine Street).

The overarching aim of the Foley plan is to establish a clear direction for the city's future, defining priorities and optimizing resource utilization. Identified critical areas will guide city efforts, with flexibility to adapt the plan as circumstances evolve.

As part of the planning process, Foley has been actively soliciting feedback from residents and stakeholders through an ongoing survey, accessible at the top of the city's website located at cityoffoley.org/. The survey will remain open throughout the plan's development.

During the community forums, planners will present initial survey responses and discuss how city officials are addressing concerns raised by residents. Notable concerns from survey participants include apprehensions about the pace of growth in Foley, with the city's population currently estimated at 25,000, up from 20,335 in the 2020 census.

Respondents also emphasized the need for more affordable housing, prompting the city to explore additional construction projects. Addressing traffic concerns, Foley is actively working on enhancing north-south routes, exemplified by projects such as the extension of North Pecan and South Pecan streets, and the extension of Juniper Street to Alabama 59.

Survey feedback also indicated a demand for expanded recreational facilities, including indoor sites. In response, Foley is developing plans for an indoor aquatic center at Max Griffin Park and the renovation of the former National Guard armory, now city property, to create indoor recreation spaces.

City planners are set to meet with Foley elected officials and city directors as part of the collaborative effort to shape the strategic plan, signifying the commitment to inclusive governance and community input.