Downtown BHM Community Survey
We set out to hear from 1,000 voices. Thanks to you, we more than doubled that goal!
Your voice matters to Downtown BHM
The Downtown BHM Community Survey closed on September 12, 2025, and we’re grateful to the 2,147 respondents who shared their perspectives. Your feedback will help guide strategic priorities and improvements for downtown Birmingham over the next five years.
Developed as part of a strategic planning process led by the Downtown BHM Business Improvement District (BID) and REV Birmingham, the survey was open to anyone interested in Downtown’s future. Participants represented a broad cross-section of stakeholders, including residents, workers, business owners, property owners and visitors. Approximately two-thirds of respondents completed optional demographic questions, with representation across age and income ranges.
The survey was distributed via social media, digital newsletters, partner organizations, community groups and local media.
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Key Takeaways
Downtown is a daily destination
Most respondents live, work or regularly spend time downtown, with dining, arts and cultural events cited as the top draws. A majority visit downtown at least weekly, and many do so daily.
Overall sentiment is positive — with clear opportunities
Two-thirds of survey respondents feel positive about downtown Birmingham today. Dining, arts and cultural offerings rated strongest, while concerns around safety, cleanliness, parking and retail options surfaced most often as challenges.
Clear priorities for the future
Looking ahead to 2030, respondents envision a downtown that is safer, cleaner, more vibrant and more walkable. The most important priorities identified include:
- Redeveloping vacant buildings and lots
- Improving public safety
- Enhancing cleanliness and maintenance
- Increasing services for people experiencing homelessness
Respondents also expressed interest in better district connectivity, family-friendly amenities, affordable dining, convenience retail and more large-scale and family-friendly events.
Survey Results
Below is a detailed, question-by-question summary of survey responses, along with cross-tabulation analysis and additional insights shared by participants. These findings will help inform future initiatives and investments in Downtown BHM.
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Layers of good
Jacob Alan BellI love Birmingham because not only is it a great place to go see all these really cool events and people, but it has so much diversity of culture and things to see in general that there’s something new every single day.
So much to do
Jenny MellownI love Birmingham because it has a small town feel in the middle of a city. There is so much to do from local breweries to sporting events. There is always something going on and it is easy to find something to do!
Always something new
Amy MezzellThe variety of restaurants, hangouts, stores, venues, and places to explore is incredible for a city this size. You get all of the variety of a larger city with the pleasant atmosphere of a small town.
Vacation feels
Hillary KeyBirmingham has vacation feels even if you are a local. It is home and it is beautiful.