Foley, Ala. — (GSN) — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Chair of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security Appropriations, recently directly secured $2.063 million for the City of Foley in the Fiscal Year (FY) 26 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. This funding will improve the city’s storm resiliency during major tropical storm events by burying vulnerable utilities.

The project will strategically place existing overhead utilities underground in downtown Foley, covering six blocks from West Magnolia Avenue to Myrtle Avenue, totaling approximately 2,300 linear feet. The funds requested will be used to cover the construction and operating costs necessary to implement this project.

The project seeks to increase storm resiliency by facilitating quicker recovery for residents, safeguarding jobs, and restoring the regional economy following a tropical storm event. The City of Foley is situated in the northern Gulf Coast area, a region highly susceptible to the impacts of tropical events.

“Alabama communities along the Gulf of America know well the destruction tropical storms can bring. I’m proud to have secured over $2 million in federal funding to help the City of Foley strengthen its infrastructure before, during, and after major storms,” said Senator Britt. “This investment will result in a safer, more resilient community, and I’m eager to see the impact of this strategic investment across Foley and the broader region.”

“I want to thank Senator Britt for understanding the needs of our community. This $2 million in funding represents a vital partnership between Congress, Foley and Riviera Utilities that directly addresses our city's resiliency. Putting these utilities underground protects the central corridor that powers our hospital and downtown businesses. It is a huge boost for our community, both for storm safety and the continued beautification of our historic downtown,” said Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich.

In total, Senator Britt directly secured more than $14.97 million for Alabama in FY26 Homeland Security appropriations funding.