Foley Safe Room Design Approved

Plans for a shelter to protect Foley first responders during a hurricane or other emergency are moving forward, the city announced. The Foley City Council approved a plan of the low-maintenance safe room that includes an all-brick façade. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the design will be practical and match the appearance of other structures in the area. Now expected to cost almost $6 million, approximately $5 million will be paid for by a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant. The city has been working on the project for more than four years. Hellmich said the council approval is a major step toward construction. The facility will provide a safe location for firefighters, police and other emergency responders to take shelter during a hurricane or other event and can be used as a training center when not being utilized as a shelter.