Foley officials have moved ahead with plans for a fourth fire station after acquiring a five‑acre parcel on East Fern Avenue. The city issued a Request for Proposals to design the facility , which could break ground as early as next year to serve new neighborhoods and businesses near State Route 59 and the Foley Beach Express.

Five‑acre East Fern site donated for Fire Station No. 4

The land, recorded this week, was gifted to Foley and sits at a key intersection of two major highways.. City records show the parcel will give fire crews direct routes to both Alabama State Route 59 and the Foley Beach Express, a factor Mayor Ralph Hellmich says will "significantly improve emergency response times" in the rapidly developing north side.

Design RFP released by Fire Chief Joey Darby

Fire Chief Joey Darby confirmed the city council approved an RFP that invites architectural and engineering firms to submit concepts that fit the municipality’s budget. according to the report, officials expect strong interest from qualified firms, and the chosen design must balance cost with the functional needs of a modern firehouse.

Construction timeline hinges on design phase

If the design process stays on schedule, connstruction could begin in 2025 after the 2024 design work is completed. The city’s timeline, as outlined in the RFP, leaves little slack,meaning any delays in selecting a design could push the start date further out.

Potential multi‑use hub with Riviera Utilities

Beyond fire services, Foley is studying whether part of the site could host a water well and storage facility. Riviera Utilities is conducting a feasibility study that could turn the property into a shared public‑safety and utility hub, a concept that could maximize the city’s investment.

Who will fund the $X‑million project?

The article does not disclose the exact budget, leaving residents to wonder how the city plans to finance the station and any ancillary utilities.. As Mayor Hellmich emphasized, the project is a "critical component of the city’s infrastructure planning," but details on fudning sources remain unclear.