Baldwin County city planning new Civic Center, Aquatic Center, and Senior Center. – fox10tv.com

State of the City Address: Foley’s Progress and Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich presented the annual State of the City address, highlighting significant progress on upcoming projects aimed at meeting community needs while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The city’s initiatives focus on sustainable infrastructure, community well-being, and economic growth.

Infrastructure Development and SDG Alignment

1. Public Works Campus Expansion (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure)

   The new Public Works Campus on North Poplar Street is scheduled for completion by spring, with partial completion by January. This facility will provide expanded space and modern technology for multiple city departments, supporting sustainable urban development for the next 30 to 40 years. The renovation of the existing Public Works facility will create a modern home for the Parks and Recreation Department, enhancing community services.

2. New Library and Community Center (SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities)

   The upcoming 40,000-square-foot library and community center on East Orange Avenue will double the current facility’s space. Beyond traditional library functions, it will host educational programs, computer labs, and genealogy research, fostering lifelong learning and community engagement.

3. Transportation and Accessibility Improvements (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being)

   • Extension of Jessamine Avenue and creation of a new park gateway.
   • Ongoing improvements on South Chicago Street.
   • Expansion of sidewalks, including new walkways on North Cedar Street, to enhance pedestrian access and safety.
   • Approved $1 million for roadway repaving and enhancements.

Upcoming Projects Supporting Sustainable Growth

• New Fire Station in the northeast area to improve emergency response (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being).
• Access Road for Industrial Park to support economic development (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
• Extension of James Road in collaboration with the county to improve connectivity (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
• Plans for a New Civic Center and Aquatic Center to enhance community facilities (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities).
• Development of a New Senior Center to support aging populations (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being).

Funding and Economic Impact

Growth-driven impact fees from developers have financed projects such as the pickleball and sand volleyball complex and new soccer fields in west Foley, promoting inclusive recreational opportunities (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities).

Foley Sports Tourism has hosted 85 events, attracting over 250,000 visitors and generating substantial economic benefits:

• $44.5 million in business sales
• $11 million in food and beverage sales
• $5.5 million in lodging sales
• $2.5 million in local tax revenue

This growth supports SDG 8 by fostering sustained economic growth and job creation.

Healthcare Expansion and Community Well-being

The city’s development has facilitated a $300 million hospital expansion at Baldwin Health, improving local healthcare access and reducing the need for residents to travel to distant cities for medical services (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being).

Challenges and Future Outlook

Mayor Hellmich emphasized that continued growth will increase demand for city services, including fire, police, and sanitation. Foley is projected to become the largest city in Baldwin County within the next decade, underscoring the importance of sustainable urban planning and resource management (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Conclusion

Foley’s strategic projects and investments demonstrate a commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals by enhancing infrastructure, promoting inclusive community services, supporting economic growth, and improving quality of life for residents. The city’s proactive approach ensures readiness to meet future challenges while fostering sustainable development.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Expansion of hospital facilities and medical parks to meet healthcare needs.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Development of new infrastructure projects including Public Works Campus, library, community center, fire station, access roads, and civic centers.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Improvement of pedestrian access with sidewalks, park gateways, crosswalks, and recreational facilities.
   • Development of parks, sports complexes, and community centers.
   • Urban planning to accommodate growth and enhance quality of life.
4. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Promotion of sports tourism generating significant economic benefits.
   • Creation of jobs and business opportunities through city growth and development.
5. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Enhancement of library facilities providing educational programs, computer labs, and community learning resources.

2. Specific Targets Under Identified SDGs

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential healthcare services.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory planning and management.
   • Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible green and public spaces.
4. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.9: Promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
5. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults with relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. SDG 3 Indicators
   • Number and capacity of healthcare facilities (e.g., new $300 million hospital complex).
   • Access to medical services within the community.
2. SDG 9 Indicators
   • Completion and operational status of infrastructure projects (Public Works Campus, fire station, roads).
   • Technological upgrades in city facilities.
3. SDG 11 Indicators
   • Length and quality of sidewalks and pedestrian pathways added.
   • Number and size of public spaces and recreational facilities developed (parks, sports complexes, library).
   • Accessibility improvements such as crosswalks and gateways.
4. SDG 8 Indicators
   • Number of sports tourism events hosted (85 events).
   • Visitor numbers to the city due to events (250,000 visitors).
   • Economic impact measured by business sales ($44.5 million), food and beverage sales ($11 million), lodging sales ($5.5 million), and local tax revenue ($2.5 million).
5. SDG 4 Indicators
   • Number of participants in library programs, including children and other community members.
   • Availability of educational resources such as computer labs and genealogy research facilities.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: fox10tv.com