
Get to know your City Center District Manager, Michael Symes.
Meet Michael Symes, the new City Center District Manager for the Business Improvement District (BID). As a long-time resident of Birmingham, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, having been an active member of the community since graduating from the University of Alabama. In this article, we will explore Michael’s journey and learn about his “accidental roots” in the city, as well as his passion for working with the Business Improvement District (BID) of the Magic City. Follow along as we get to know the person behind the job title and uncover the unique perspective he brings to the role.

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.

2022 was an impactful year, thanks to the City Center BID team!
2022 has been a year full of impact and vibrancy in downtown Birmingham. With the help of the City Center Business Improvement District (BID), stakeholders, and folks like you, the Magic City has never looked better! In Downtown Birmingham, property owners fund the BID to bring you amenities and services like the CAP clean & safe program. The core of Alabama brings in over 25 million people into Birmingham. With so much influence and economic opportunity, the BID team ensures the City Center District puts its best foot forward. Take a look at what we accomplished just last year!

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.

The Linn Henley Research Library is the best-kept secret in Birmingham!
Why should you CHECK OUT the Linn Henley Research Library? From its neoclassical look on the outside to the intricate murals in the reading room, the Linn Henley Research Library is a great place to spend your quiet time or deep dive into some research. Find out more information about the artist who painted the murals, history, and even where to find parking here!

Why are businesses choosing to move to Birmingham? OnCentive has no regrets!
Businesses are on the move to Birmingham! Meet Shannon Scott, the CEO of OnCentive and Trak Capital who recently moved his company from Gadsden to Birmingham, Alabama this past year. OnCentive helps small and mid-size businesses by investing extra capital into their organization. The team at OnCentive consults with clients on federal programs that they are potentially eligible to receive and qualify for business incentives and tax credits.

10 Downtown Birmingham spots to get your caffeine fix
We compiled a list of 10 downtown coffee shops for you to explore next time you need a change of scenery!

Creating Kinetic energy in a downtown workplace
Jay Brandrup, principal and founder of Kinetic Communications, takes pride in the workplace culture he has been able to create since he started his company in 1995.