Foley, Ala. - (OBA) - Foley's Veteran's Memorial, a key city monument honoring service members, is set to receive significant enhancements, as confirmed by the Foley City Council. These planned updates include the installation of a new 40-foot flagpole at the memorial site in Max Griffin Park, replacing the existing 20-foot one, and repositioning two 76-millimeter anti-tank cannons at the site.

The city council approved the procurement of the flagpole, including its installation and lighting, at an estimated cost of around $18,000. The current flagpole will be declared surplus and donated to the Foley Masonic Lodge, as part of the council's resolution.

In addition to the flagpole, the city has also decided to relocate two anti-tank guns from their present location at the former National Guard armory building, now acquired by the city, to the park. The artillery pieces will be situated next to the memorial monument on South Alston Street.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich expressed that these upgrades, including the new flagpole and artillery pieces, will serve as a more fitting tribute to local veterans. "We hope that the addition of the Army guns, the new flagpole, and the LED lighting will enhance the Veterans Park, making it more impressive as a veterans memorial and reflecting our support for our military,” said Hellmich.

The city's upgrade plans also encompass moving several existing flagpoles to new sites. However, the estimated cost to remove an 80-foot pole on South McKenzie Street was deemed too high at $5,800. Consequently, Riviera Utilities crews will cut the pole at no cost and move it to the city public works yard.

Other enhancements include new plaques being added near the World War II Memorial at Heritage Park, another tribute to veterans located at the intersection of North McKenzie Street and East Violet Avenue.