A cautionary tale: Birmingham’s historic losses
In case you haven’t heard, May is National Historic Preservation Month, as so celebrated for years by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Park Service. Here in Birmingham, a city rich in history and culture, this month-long celebration is not only a reminder to take stock of the historic treasures and charm we currently possess, but a time to mourn those we no longer have.
10 powerful examples of historic preservation in action
It’s easy to take for granted the historic gems we have here in Birmingham. Many beautiful, story-filled buildings dot the map of our city, their silhouettes adorning our skylines and their façades serving as the vibrant background to our everyday lives downtown. Although this is far from a comprehensive list, we invite you to keep reading and learn more about ten powerful examples of historic preservation already in action in the Magic City.
Why we say yay to two-way streets downtown
The conversion of 4th Avenue North into a two-way street is a catalytic moment for Birmingham – but you may find yourself wondering why that is. The case for two-ways is layered with economic and social benefits alike. Let’s dive in!
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.
Explore Downtown’s Walkable Mural Trail
Looking to make the most of your time while waiting for a table or perhaps seeking a way to work off some post-dinner calories? Look no further than Birmingham’s captivating Mural Trail, an ideal way to immerse yourself in the heart of downtown Birmingham. This trail invites you to stroll through the storied streets of both the Historic Downtown District and the Civil Rights District. While Birmingham boasts an abundance of striking murals, our carefully curated trail promises an enjoyable, sun-soaked afternoon adventure. With an estimated completion time of about an hour, or the flexibility to split it into two leisurely segments, this trail promises a memorable exploration of art and history.
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.
The Frank’s new look and its impact on the city center
Downtown Birmingham keeps growing, and so does the demand for more residential apartments. The Frank Nelson building on 20th Street North has recently been converted into an apartment complex. Commons and Orchestra Partners teamed up to redevelop the property back in 2018.
Take a walk alongside the Birmingham Holiday Window Art Trail!
Downtown Birmingham has partnered with seven local artists to begin the first Birmingham Holiday Magic Window Art Trail! The artist had full access to the unoccupied window spaces to create a holiday-related art scene. Artists were encouraged to use multimedia art types in their windows, and began to go up the last week of November. You can check out all the artist and their work now until the end of the year!
There’s Holiday Magic back in the streets of Birmingham!
Shopping locally has never been so easy! You can support small businesses at our Holiday Magic Market this Friday from 4 – 8 pm. The market will be conveniently located on 20th Street between 2nd and 4th Avenue North. There will be over 15 vendors and a LIVE on 20th street performance!