Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The Foley City Council has voted to move forward with plans to extend East Verbena Avenue. The project will connect two sections of the road between Alabama 59 and South Cypress Street.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich explained that the extension will continue improvements in the area. "The road could be completed down through there, which will support businesses in that area," he said.Hellmich said. “It will also clear out that property. This will help adjoining property owners with some of the issues they’ve had with misuse of their property.”

The project aims to enhance street connectivity and provide multiple routes across town. This will reduce congestion and increase walkability in the area, offering more efficient routes for residents and visitors.

Crews are already clearing the right of way for the extension. They are being careful to preserve large oak trees near the route. Hellmich mentioned, "There is one live oak that we've talked about. We can go around it, or we'll offset it."

Construction will not begin until the design is approved, and the project is added to the city's construction schedule. Earlier this year, the council approved improvements to drainage, lighting, and roadways on the existing section of East Verbena near Alabama Hwy 59.