The key tool for urban revitalization: Downtown Birmingham’s BID

By the time REV took on BID management in 2018, downtown had a new set of needs from its BID. Downtown Birmingham in the ‘90s had a population mainly of 9 to 5 employees. But the downtown of 2018 had a whole new population of residents and visitors throughout the day and night. We had new opportunities to create positive experiences, inviting them into more downtown businesses and public spaces, and to keep them coming back for more.


Introducing the six businesses that call Nextec home

On the corner of 3rd Avenue and 16th Street North, you’ll find Nextec, a redevelopment of the 90-year-old, 65,000-square-foot Edwards Motor Company building (also formerly known as the Sticks ‘N’ Stuff building). With experience in historic renovation, developer Michael Mouron, chairman of Capstone Real Estate Investments, began this civic project in 2021 as a space for business startups to continue their work in the Magic City.


Urban Vintage Clothing pedaling forward

For as long as he can remember, Ty King, owner of Urban Vintage Clothing, has had an inclination for fashion. To him, style is more than the clothes on your back. It’s a feeling – and a really good one, if you’re intentional about expressing yourself through your attire.  

That passion, combined with an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, is what drove him to open his storefront for Urban Vintage Clothing in December of 2022.


Cala Coffee: The Newest Coffee Shop Brewing in Birmingham

Amid the pandemic, when many found themselves at home searching for new hobbies, Josh Cosio and his wife, Melanie, embarked on a unique journey – roasting coffee at home. What began as a simple passion project soon evolved into something much more remarkable. Just two years after their inaugural batch of home-roasted beans, Cala Coffee has swiftly taken root, with not one but two locations opening in Birmingham.


An insider look into Birmingham’s only handmade tap handle manufacturer

Beer…it’s what makes Birmingham unique, game days better, and the world go round. Beermingham is home to over 10 breweries and hundreds of unique craft flavors. Amidst this cornucopia of choices, one often overlooked yet crucial element in the craft beer world is the tap handle. It’s the final touch that guides that ice-cold brew into your frosted glass. But have you ever wondered about the work that goes into these intricate handles?


9 Questions with Deon Gordon about BHM’s thriving tech scene and Sloss Tech

Meet Deon Gordon, one of the great minds behind Sloss Tech and a leading figure in Birmingham’s thriving tech industry. Sloss Tech is a vital conference driving the growth of Birmingham’s tech sector, fostering connections between tech enthusiasts, founders, investors, and professionals. This year’s conference is unique due to its post-pandemic return, introducing new programs for inclusivity and engaging students and early-career professionals. Deon envisions tech as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation in Birmingham and emphasizes the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the tech community.


Birmingham, the secret ingredient behind Hoffman Media

Have you ever wondered how those delicious baking magazines look so good on paper but don’t turn out like the pictures? The geniuses behind the apron aren’t the only ones making those creations come to life. Photographers, producers, and editors are also behind the scenes making the food look as good as it tastes. Downtown Birmingham is lucky to have its own creative publication firm, Hoffman Media, right on 2nd Avenue.  With several state-of-the-art broadcasting kitchens and photography equipment, the firm can easily transform a recipe into a dreamy reality.


A Call for a Parking Revolution

Parking lots are dead spaces. Nothing we can construct sucks the life and vibrancy out of a place more than a parking lot. Yet we cannot seem to live without parking. Views on parking dominate almost every issue related to downtown growth. From not enough parking to being too expensive, learn from David Fleming why parking is essential to Birmingham’s growth.


How the latest developments in The Switch district are impacting Birmingham

The final touches are coming together for the grand opening of the Nextec building in the Switch district. Conveniently located a block away from the Innovation Depot, graduates from the depot and other entrepreneurs have a place to go after successfully launching their business off the ground. Continue reading to find out more about the district and newest developments.


What two-way traffic could do for Downtown Birmingham

Did you know when Birmingham was established the street grid didn’t include one ways? It was only until the 1970s that the City of Birmingham transitioned into two way streets to alleviate traffic. Studies show that switching back to two way streets could improve crime rates and help economic growth. Keep reading to learn why two ways streets are beneficial and essential to the success of Birmingham from REV President & CEO, David Fleming.


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