Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Foley is making progress in bringing back the trees lost nearly five years ago when Hurricane Sally hit the area. City crews have started replanting trees to help restore the urban forest.

When Sally struck in September 2020, the powerful storm knocked down many large trees and stripped away vegetation. This caused major changes to how the city’s streets and public areas looked and felt.

City officials estimate that about 40% of Foley’s tree canopy was destroyed during the storm. 

Now, city crews are planting trees in locations such as the southwest corner of Alston Street and Section Avenue. Before the project began, the bare lot was bordered by a small stream that runs into the headwaters of Wolf Creek. 

The work is transforming the parcel into an attractive part of the Foley streetscape. 

In response to Sally’s damage, the Foley City Council approved the launch of a long-term effort to restore the city’s urban forest. 

The Foley Public Works Department, with support from City Horticulturist John Graham, recently completed several tree planting and landscape enhancement projects. 

The project at the corner of Alston and Section is an example of urban design and community place making—demonstrating how small, well-planned improvements can deliver environmental benefits and visual appeal.

The trees planted at the site were selected to provide year-round color, seasonal interest, and suitability to site conditions. Bald cypress were planted in low-lying areas to aid stormwater absorption. Other trees include northern red oak, magnolia, yellow poplar, magnolia, wax myrtle and live oaks.

The plantings add structure, diversity and lasting beauty. The improvements not only help restore the city’s lost canopy but also support better drainage and enhance the character of the neighborhood.

“This project is a good example of how a little planning can turn a space that wasn’t being used into something that really adds value to the neighborhood,” said Darrell Russell, director of Public Works. “We picked tree types that could handle the conditions, bring color throughout the year, and help with drainage. Reestablishing Foley’s urban forestry tree canopy has been a major priority since Hurricane Sally, and this project lets us do that while also improving how the city looks and functions.”

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the effort is part of the city’s broader commitment to enhancing the community. 

“Foley is focused on making smart, long-term investments that not only replace what was lost, but create stronger, more beautiful places for our residents,” Hellmich said. “This corner at Alston Street and Section Avenue is a great example of how strategic, well-designed improvements can serve multiple purposes—improving environmental function, strengthening neighborhood identity, and elevating the quality of life. Small, consistent, incremental projects like this—carried out over time—can lead to meaningful, positive change for the entire community.”

This completed project reflects Foley’s continued focus on restoring its tree canopy, upgrading public spaces, and enhancing the city’s overall character. As the trees mature, the site will evolve into a more vibrant, welcoming place that offers long-term value to both nearby residents and the broader community.