Design Alabama Study Looks At Future Of Foley

Attainable housing, improved public places and connectivity between areas of the City of Foley are some ways to prepare it for the future, according to a Design Alabama study that examined Foley’s needs and ways to meet upcoming challenges. Foley was one of the Alabama cities selected for the citizen-led not-for-profit’s Design Place program. As part of the program, the report observed how some areas of the city could be developed and how connections could be improved between areas of Foley for pedestrians and vehicles. It identified a network of alleys that could be useful for improving pedestrian access in Downtown Foley. Connectivity plans could use existing routes, such as alleys, the Rose Trail or Graham Creek, to provide better access around Foley. Additionally, Max Griffin Park could include more aquatic activities and a stage, and an extended-stay hotel for people staying in the area while relatives are receiving medical care was seen as useful. During a public discussion of the study, several participants said housing is an issue that needs to be addressed. It was pointed out that some cities are changing zoning ordinances to allow smaller homes to be built on smaller lots.