Foley officials have taken a major step to expand city services and community spaces. The City Council approved buying more than two acres downtown. The site sits on East Violet Avenue, north of Heritage Park. Leaders say the land could host a new civic center and a city museum.

The property, known as the Gatlin Property, lies east of the Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail. It is also south of the current Foley Public Works site, which will shift to a new campus in early 2026. After that move, the present Public Works location will become offices for the Parks and Horticulture departments. City leaders say the newly purchased tract would help build a central campus in Foley.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the city has outgrown its Civic Center, which dates to the 1970s. He noted the building was constructed when Foley had about 5,000 residents. The mayor said the existing facility is not big enough for today’s needs. Plans call for a replacement that could seat around 800 people.

Hellmich said the Gatlin Property offers room for a modern civic center. He said the site could also allow the city to preserve most or all of the large oak trees. Officials are studying layouts that fit the setting while improving access and parking. The goal is a flexible venue that can handle big gatherings and community events.

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Foley leaders are also considering a museum on the site. The museum would honor the city’s designation as an American World War II Heritage City. That status is given by the National Park Service. Only one city in each state or territory can receive the AWWIIHC title.

The proposed museum would highlight Barin Field and the city’s wartime role. Barin Field opened in 1942 as a Navy training base in Foley. Exhibits would focus on naval aviation and the community’s contributions during and after the war. Hellmich said the museum could fit on the site if space allows.

Mike Thompson, the city administrator, said the former owners offered more help. The family agreed to donate an extra parcel just south of East Violet Avenue. The donated lot is about one-third of an acre and sits east of Heritage Park. City officials say the gift adds flexibility for future public use.

The land purchase and donation give Foley options as it plans for growth. Leaders aim to strengthen civic life and preserve local history. Next steps include detailed designs and public input. Officials said they will keep residents updated as plans advance.