Transforming Foley’s Former National Guard Armory Into a Community Hub

The heart of Foley, Alabama, is about to receive an exciting new addition that promises to offer fresh opportunities for recreation, learning, and community engagement. The Foley City Council has approved a renovation project that will breathe new life into the former Foley National Guard Armory, a building that has served the community for over 50 years. Located at 315 E. Jessamine Ave., just behind City Hall, this historic structure is set to be transformed into a modern recreation and office space.

For years, the Foley National Guard Armory was a cornerstone of the community, providing a home for the Alabama Army National Guard’s Foley unit. But with the Guard’s relocation to a new facility near the Foley Beach Express in 2023, the city saw an opportunity to repurpose this valuable space. The plan is to revitalize the armory into a hub that will cater to the growing needs of the city’s residents while maintaining its connection to Foley’s history. This exciting $1.88 million renovation project is just the beginning of a new chapter for the building, one that promises to enhance the city’s recreational offerings and provide office space for several important city departments.

A Smart Investment for the Future of Foley

While a price tag of $1.88 million may initially sound like a significant investment, Mayor Ralph Hellmich assures the public that the project is both cost-effective and strategically advantageous. When you break it down by square footage, you’re getting it for one-third the cost of new construction, Hellmich explained.

This renovation will not only save the city money compared to building a new structure from the ground up, but it will also offer a chance to provide the community with much-needed amenities that have been lacking in the area. The transformation of the former armory will allow the city to expand its recreational and office facilities, all while maintaining the building’s central location, which is easily accessible for residents.

A New Indoor Gymnasium for Foley’s Active Community

One of the standout features of the renovation is the creation of a new indoor gymnasium, a much-needed addition for Foley’s growing population. Currently, the city lacks an indoor space for many recreational activities, which is especially important during the hot and humid summer months when outdoor sports can be difficult to enjoy. The gymnasium will provide a versatile space that can be configured to accommodate a variety of sports and activities, from pickleball and basketball to volleyball and more.

The gym will feature enough space to set up four pickleball courts, a basketball court, or a volleyball court, giving residents the opportunity to participate in indoor recreational programming throughout the year. This flexible space will allow for both individual and team sports, fostering a sense of community through physical activity. Moreover, the gymnasium will be open to people of all ages, with dedicated time slots for youth programs as well as larger recreational classes for senior citizens.

A Space for the Parks and Recreation Department

In addition to the gymnasium, the renovated armory will house offices for the Foley Recreation Department and the entire Leisure Services Department. These departments play a crucial role in providing activities, programs, and events that enhance the quality of life for residents. By relocating these offices to the newly renovated space, the city will not only streamline its operations but also create a more central and accessible location for residents to engage with the city’s recreational services.

Moreover, the facility will include a classroom designed for a variety of programs, such as recreational classes and senior citizen activities. This new space will provide a safe, comfortable environment for learning, allowing the city to offer a wider range of classes and events that will benefit both younger and older residents. Whether it’s a fitness class, art workshop, or educational seminar, this space will become a hub for learning and personal growth in the community.

Supporting Special-Needs Programming

Another significant feature of the renovation is the addition of a sensory space for special-needs programming and events. This will provide a safe and inclusive environment for individuals with sensory processing disorders, autism, and other special needs. The sensory space will be specifically designed to accommodate the unique needs of these individuals, offering a calming atmosphere with sensory tools and materials that can help them engage in activities in a supportive setting.

Creating this type of space demonstrates the city’s commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their abilities, have access to programs and resources that promote their well-being. It’s a step forward in fostering inclusivity within the community and ensuring that everyone has a place to belong.

Meeting the Needs of the Foley Police Department

The renovations aren’t just focused on recreation; the building will also serve a functional purpose for the Foley Police Department. As part of the project, the facility will include a weight room for the department’s officers. Currently, the police department uses a weight room at the Fire Department building, but the space is located near the sleeping quarters for firefighters. This proximity can limit the times when officers are able to use the weight room due to shared use and the need to avoid disrupting the firefighters.

By moving the weight room to the armory, the police department will have a dedicated, accessible space for physical fitness, which is crucial for officers in maintaining their health and readiness. This additional amenity will not only benefit the police force but also help improve the overall efficiency of the city’s emergency services.

Preserving History While Planning for the Future

The Foley National Guard Armory has a rich history that spans more than five decades, and the city is committed to preserving the building’s legacy while repurposing it for modern use. Originally opened in 1969, the armory served as the headquarters for the Foley contingent of the Alabama Army National Guard until the unit moved to a new facility in 2023. In exchange for the land on which the new armory was built, the National Guard generously gave the city the former armory site.

Now, this historical building is being revitalized to continue serving the community for generations to come. The renovation will allow the structure to maintain its connection to the past while being transformed into a space that meets the needs of a modern, vibrant city. By repurposing the building rather than demolishing it, the city is able to honor its history while making smart, forward-thinking investments in its future.

A Bright Future for Foley

The renovation of the former National Guard Armory is an exciting step forward for Foley. With its new indoor gymnasium, office spaces for the Parks and Recreation Department, classrooms for educational programs, and sensory spaces for special-needs events, the building is set to become a cornerstone of the community.

This project is an example of how cities can breathe new life into existing buildings, preserving their historical significance while creating spaces that meet the evolving needs of their residents. The thoughtful renovations will not only provide more recreational opportunities but also serve as a hub for learning, health, and community engagement.

For residents of Foley, the transformation of the armory is more than just a renovation project – it’s a promise of a brighter, more connected future. With these new spaces and programs, the city is setting itself up to continue growing and thriving for years to come. Whether you’re looking for a place to play pickleball, take a fitness class, or simply connect with others, the new Foley recreation and office space will offer something for everyone. And, as the project moves forward, it will be exciting to see how this revitalized space begins to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.