Forest Park / South Avondale (February Newsletter)

FOREST PARK / SOUTH AVONDALE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2024, 6:30 p.m.
AVONDALE LIBRARY

• 1.  Monthly Report from BPD South Precinct.

• 2.  Monthly Report from Birmingham Fire Department.

• 3.  Approval of minutes from January Meeting.

• 4.  Variance to utilize the existing concrete footer placement for a new impermeant garage structure. 1ft rear and side yard setback for a new, accessory garage AND a variance for an accessory structure that takes up more than 30% of the required rear yard).

• 5.  Funding Request for 2024 edition of Movies in the Park (Keri Lane / Elizabeth Lasseter).

• 6.  Community Credit Class Information, Brian Fisher.

• 7.  Report from Friends of Avondale Park, John Forney.

• 8.  Report from Birmingham Public Schools Mary Boehm.

• 9.  Report from District 3 City Councilor, Valerie Abbott.

• 10.  Report from District 5 City Councilor, Darrell O'Quinn.

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Southside Ball registration is still open for the Spring Season at Avondale Park!
Evaluations are this Saturday February 3 so register soon!
Just click the link: https://www.southsideball.com

Forest Park / South Avondale  
Brush and Bulk Trash Pick Up date.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12
https://www.birminghamal.gov/bulktrash 

Forest Park South Avondale Neighborhood Association
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Avondale Library
Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm by President, Jeff McGee. 

John Forney, President of FOAP Board, updates neighbors about happenings at Avondale Park. No meeting was held during December. However, monthly clean-up meet-ups continue in the Park the 2nd Saturday of every month, 8-10am. Bring your tools and pitch in. Next project to tackle is cleaning up the trails. The FOAP is seeking to promote use of the Park and Villa, and is working to gather data to better understand who is renting the Villa and for what purposes. Their mission is to ensure the Park is enjoyed by everyone, and remains a clean, safe gathering space.

Destiny Askew, Director of Volunteer Engagement at STAIR, informed neighbors that STAIR is currently recruiting Spring tutors. STAIR is a tutoring program serving 10 BCS, including Avondale Elementary. January 23rd is the start of the next session. Tutors work with 1st and 2nd graders, as well as 4th graders at Avondale Elementary. Information is available at STAIRBirmingham.org Neighbor Lee Walthall shared that he is a STAIR tutor and “can think of nothing more rewarding.”

Jay Smith, President of Common Ground Forest Park, a new non-profit created to maintain Triangle Park, reported to neighbors on the successful kick-off event in November. Neighbors have been surveyed to determine the ways in which they would like to see the Park used and improved, and McNally Land Design Architects are currently developing proposals and cost estimates for different tiers of project improvements. Jay suggested neighbors google Common Ground Forest Park, hit the donate button, hit the Get Involved button, go to the Facebook page and like it, go to the Instagram page and follow it, and be involved with this important effort. A neighbor asked about fees to rent Triangle Park, and was told that people should contact the Parks and Rec Department to reserve the Park.

Jay Smith also spoke to neighbors about Southside Ball. The annual fundraiser Baseball and Brews is being held Saturday, January 27th, at Cahaba Brewery. Everyone is welcome! The Spring season is here, and registration is open. Scholarships are available, new players are welcome. www.southsideball.com

Mary Boehm, Birmingham Board of Education Representative, spoke to neighbors about Birmingham City Schools. She thanked STAIR for being present, and shared that she tutors at Avondale Elementary and it is the highlight of her week, stating “Connection with a child is invaluable.” BCS received 2 applications for new Charter Schools in November, Iron City Business Academy and InnovaEDU. The BB of Ed will review and then hold public meetings. If they choose not to approve, the applicants can appeal to the State. In response to a question, Ms Boehm stated that the BB of Ed has never approved an application for a charter school. There are a total of 11 charter schools in the State at present. Discussion followed and Ms Boehm made the point that Charter Schools have not been doing as good a job educating these kids as they had promised, mainly because it is a lot harder to accomplish than folks like to claim. Mayor Woodfin recently spoke about his disappointment in the School report cards released in December. Overall the District received a C or 72, one point lower than last year. Ms Boehm provided a breakdown of the 43 schools scores, and noted that Avondale received a C. There are more than 700 kids in 2nd grade right now that may potentially be held back from 3rd grade. STAIR is helping us address this crisis. The BCS strategic planning process would really benefit from neighbor attendance and participation. While these scores are very discouraging, the are lots of wonderful things happening in BCS kids lives. Ramsay’s Football team had an outstanding season. The 84th All-City Christmas Music Festival was an amazing highlight of the immense talent of kids across our city. And talented STEAM scholars from Bush Hills created an app for the 16th St Baptist Church, winning an innovation competition. So grades do not fully reflect the value of these wonderful kids. There is a plan to tackle the kudzu at Avondale this Spring. In addition, the City Operations team is going to help move the playground equipment and upgrade the site and tennis courts this Spring as well. In response to a question, Ms Boehm stated that chronic absenteeism is a huge problem for BCS. The BB of Ed hired a non-profit to partner with to help us do home visits, and the DA’s office is also partnering with them. Its getting better but still a lot needs to be done. In response to another question, Ms Boehm stated that she has not seen data that relates the identity of a perpetrator’s school to a crime committed. Discussion followed. Jeff McGee shared his knowledge and experience from Family Court as it related to the correlation of truancy and juvenile crime. The importance of keeping kids in school was stressed by discussion participants.

Corporal Whatley of the Birmingham Police Department was present to respond to neighbors’ concerns about crime. In response to a question, Cpl Whatley stated that they do not know how many shots were fired during NYE but the shot spotter is accurate. The retention numbers for new officers continues to remain low. A burglary 3rd degree perpetrator was arrested in the neighborhood and is in the court process now. In response to a question, Cpl Whatley said 48 hour holds will be taken to City Jail. All other arrests will go to County Jail. Another neighbor asked the officer about policing exhibition driving violations. Staff shortages lead to really large patrol areas, old patrol cars suffer mechanical issues, and the officers are just not able to be everywhere as needed. Cpl Whatley supported the idea of having the parcel delivery service send notifications or deliver to a secure holding location to avoid porch pirate opportunities.

District 5 City Councilor Darrel O’Quinn, newly elected President of the Council, spoke to neighbors. He brought packets of “News You Can Use” to distribute to those present. Councilor pointed to earlier discussions of school truancy. We have a requirement that school buses will not pick up a child within 2 miles of a school. But 2 miles is a long way to ask a child to walk through some of these neighborhoods. He sees transportation as a barrier we can address, and is speaking with HABD to see if we can’t get some assistance. Another issue Councilor is working on is animal control. The number of vicious dog attacks as well as the huge number of 911 and 311 calls related to animals has led him to propose a spay/neuter requirement, in the form of pet licensing. The Code Enforcement in the City is an ongoing problem. The staff shortages mean that there are no officers to serve summons to appear in court for code violations. The Council is working on getting officers assigned to this duty. The cooperation between City and County jail is currently in the News and the Councilor stated that this is mostly politics at play.  He sees cooperation amongst the greater municipalities as the most viable option, freeing up funds for infrastructure and education. In response to a question, Councilor O’Quinn stated that the jail agreement should not result in layoffs. Staff shortages mean that officers in the jail could easily be reassigned to street patrol or other vacant roles. Discussion returned to the unlicensed pet issue, and the health and safety concerns of irresponsible pet ownership.

District 3 City Councilor Valerie Abbott expressed excitement about the potential for Code enforcement. The City Council is attempting to hold the Mayor to getting the positions of inspectors filled. Uniform garbage carts are continuing to be a problem for many in her district. Councilor Abbott reminded folks they may get a waiver form from the 311 call center if you cannot physically pull your cart up and down to the street.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:40pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Crawford
Secretary   

Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Avondale Library

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Helpful links and Information about the upcoming 2024 Elections

The Secretary of State website: Alabama Votes. Here you can update your voter information and/or register to vote. The site also has information on upcoming elections, absentee voting and much more.
The Jefferson County Board of Registrars Here you will find voting locations, maps of congressional districts, contact information for Absentee Voting and more.

Dates to remember:
Primary Election – March 5, 2024
Feb. 16 – Last day to hand-deliver voter registration forms
Feb. 17 – Last day to postmark voter registration forms
Feb. 19 – Last day to register to vote electronically
Feb. 27 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot to mail
Feb. 29 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot in person
March 4 – Last day to hand-deliver absentee ballot
March 5 – Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by Noon.

Primary Runoff Election (If necessary) – April 16, 2024
April 1 – Voter registration deadline
April 9 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot by mail
April 11 – Last day to apply for an absentee ballot in person
April 15 – Last day to hand-deliver absentee ballot
April 16 – Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by Noon*

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Jefferson County EMA and City of Birmingham Alert System

Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for our Emergency Alert Program. This system enables us to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons and evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods. Create an account to get alerts here.
 

Recycling Pickups - Usually 1st and 3rd Weds.

(unless holidays change the schedule)

(Recyclables can be also be dropped off at Birmingham Recycling and Recovery

M-F 7am-4pm* - 9 41st St. S., 35222 (Avondale).)
Please do NOT use plastic bags. 

What Can Be Recycled:

Paper, cardboard, newspaper, magazines, and broken down cardboard boxes (if using a box for your "bin" you do not need to break it down)

Aluminum, steel, or tin cans

#1 and #2 Plastics only. 

DO NOT INCLUDE THESE: trash, phone books, styrofoam, glass, plastic packing materials/wrappers or plastic bags or anything with food residue. (Rinse all items and discard greasy parts of pizza boxes (for example.)

When in doubt, throw it out! 

*We have unfortunately confirmed that if the truck comes by on other days, they will pick up materials and take them to the dump.

City of Birmingham awards $808,000 to facilitate economic development through BOLD program

City of Birmingham awards $808,000 to facilitate economic development through BOLD program

The City of Birmingham has awarded more than $800,000 to seven area organizations whose missions are rooted in creating a more inclusive and resilient community. The BOLD funding program, which stands for Building Opportunities for Lasting Development, provides financial support to organizations and agencies that take creative, evidence-based approaches to advancing economic and community development in Birmingham.

“I am thrilled to continue funding local organizations through the BOLD program who work diligently to support our residents with innovative programming and resources,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “An investment in these organizations is an investment in the future of Birmingham.”

Funding was allocated across six categories: small businesses; minority-, women-, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MWDBEs); workforce development; overcoming barriers; Birmingham’s neighborhoods; and data-driven Innovation.

“We invest in partners through the BOLD funding program because they serving our residents to improve quality of life and place, which is the groundwork for advancing economic opportunity in Birmingham’s 99 neighborhoods.,” said Coreata Houser, deputy director of the Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity. “BOLD has supported more than 5,000 Birmingham residents and 2,000 small businesses since it began five years ago.”

Click the buttons below to learn more.

Magic City Spotlight: Drop warmth supply drive donations at Boutwell today

Meet us at Boutwell Auditorium today and donate to the warmth supply drive

The City of Birmingham's warmth supply drive continues today to 4 p.m. in front of Boutwell Auditorium.

There is a critical need for bottled water donations.

Donors can drive in front of Boutwell, and someone will unload their vehicle.

Boutwell’s address is 1930 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Volunteers will be accepting:

• Bottled water

• Toilet paper

• Paper towels

• New or gently-used coats

• New gloves and winter caps

• Hand warmers

Birmingham City Council Highlights 11.7.23

ITEM 1

The Birmingham City Council has voted unanimously to deny a request for a rezoned property in the Oxmoor Valley Neighborhood following a lengthy public hearing.

During the meeting, over a dozen residents spoke against rezoning the currently undeveloped property located at 3100 and 3060 Oxmoor Road. The plans were to have this be a convenience store/gas station with a quick service restaurant. However, residents said there were already too many gas stations in the area and this was an unwelcomed addition to the corridor.

The Oxmoor Neighborhood Association had already voted down the proposed plan 32-4 of those in attendance. Of all the residents who spoke at the meeting, all of them were against the plan, signaling it would negatively impact the quality of life in the area.

“I have an immense amount of respect for the residents who came down to speak on this and raise the concerns they have with this development,” Councilor Clinton Woods said. “I think it shows what residents can accomplish when they unite and it’s what we love to see. We want to hear from y’all and we want y’all to be involved. I think we have a much better understanding now about what the community wants to see as a whole. I don’t see any overwhelming reason as to why we need to force this new development on a community that does not have a need for it nor do they want it.”

Council President Pro Tem Wardine Alexander, who represents the district, said she was proud of the residents who came and spoke about this issue because their opposition made a big difference.

“We want to ensure that the residents who live in these places where we consider rezoning parcels of land, they deserve to have their voices heard and to have a seat at the table. I want to be sure that we don’t get into a situation where we think we know what’s best for people who have to live by these developments. I’m very glad to see that not be the case here today,” Council President Pro Tem Alexander said.

Here is the item as it appeared on Tuesday’s agenda:

ITEM 1. An Ordinance “TO FURTHER AMEND THE ZONING DISTRICT MAP OF THE CITY OF BIRMINGHAM” (Case No. ZAC2022-00001) to change zone district boundaries from MXD Planned Mixed-Use District to “Q”C-1 Qualified Neighborhood Commercial District, filed by Charles Beavers, applicant, on behalf of the owner, OXMORE USA, INC, for properties located at 3100 and 3060 Shannon Oxmoor Road, and situated - in the NE¼ of Section 06, Township 19-S, Range 3-West, and the hearing of all interested parties. [Second Reading] (Submitted by Councilor Abbott, Chair,

Planning and Zoning Committee) (Recommended by the Z.A.C. and the Planning and Zoning Committee)**

Birmingham City Council Highlights 10.31.23

Birmingham City Council Highlights 10.31.23

Item 20

On Tuesday, the Council approved an agreement with Common Thread Community, opening the door for the organization to expand their small business incubator in District 6.

The Common Thread Community initiative will provide services to the City by supporting 10-15 new small business by expanding its existing Cultural Center in the Titusville Project (“The Project”) through the redevelopment, rehabilitation, and enhancement of their facility located on the existing premises at 222 6th Avenue SW.

Councilor Smitherman supported this project with $100,000 from her ARPA funds.

“This is a great initiative for my office to be able to utilize the federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars that we were allocated,” Councilor Smitherman said. “When I first came into office, my number one mission was to revitalize the small business corridor along 6th Avenue South. By providing this kind of assistance to small businesses, we’re looking to get homegrown, local businesses on their feet and out into the community. We’d love to see some of these companies eventually occupy buildings along that corridor that have been vacant.”

Currently, Building One of the Cultural Center houses important community-based organizations such as BuildUp, A4One Sports Facility, Step-by-Step and Cahaba Medical. This expansion will allow for more start-ups to be able to scale their businesses and serve residents in the surrounding areas.

Here is the item as it appeared on Tuesday’s agenda:

A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute and deliver an agreement between the City of Birmingham and The Common Thread Community in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00, under which The Common Thread Community will provide services to the City by supporting 10-15 new small businesses by expanding its existing Cultural Center in Titusville Project (“the Project”) through the redevelopment, rehabilitation, and enhancement of Building 2, located on the existing premises at 222 6th Avenue SW, Birmingham, Alabama, into 15,000 sq. ft. of additional office collaborating space for a totaled combined office collaborating space of 60,000 sq. ft., inclusive of both Buildings 1 & 2, with an estimated investment of approximately $525,000.00 by Consultant for improvements to Building 2. [Funding Source: ARPA-District 6] (Submitted by the City Attorney) (Recommended by the Mayor and the Chief Community Planner) **

ITEM 21

In an effort to assist small businesses that have been impacted by hardships brought on by the COVID-19 health crisis, the Council approved an agreement with Urban Impact, under which they will provide support for 18 small businesses that qualify for a grant.

“I want small businesses to know that there will be assistance available through Urban Impact following today’s vote,” Council President Darrell O’Quinn said. “We know that these are some of the hardest hit industries in the last couple years and we want our small business owners to understand that we are here to help because they are the backbone of our community.”

Council President Darrell O’Quinn contributed $25,000 of this office’s ARPA funding, Councilor Clinton Woods contributed $15,000 and Councilor JT Moore contributed $10,000. The small business grants are available for up to $4,100 for those who qualify. For more information please visit https://urbanimpactbirmingham.org/

ITEM 27

One of Birmingham’s lowest graded sidewalks will soon be getting repairs made following the Council’s vote on Tuesday.

“I’m so excited about this because we all hear from our residents about the need to repair sidewalks. This is an issue that impacts every single neighborhood in this city so it’s good to see a project like this moving forward. I’m hopeful that this indicates more projects like this coming soon,” Councilor Valerie Abbott said.

Mayor Randall Woodfin indicated that the City is currently working on leveraging federal grant funding to bolster the city’s general fund allocation for a massive set of citywide sidewalk repairs. More details about that will be released when they are made available.

Here is the item as it appeared on Tuesday’s agenda:

A Resolution accepting the unit price bid of C.P. Construction, LLC, 905 – 24th Street SW, Birmingham in the amount of $170,995.00 for City Wide Sidewalk Repairs this being the lowest responsible and responsive bid submitted, and authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with C.P. Construction, LLC, in substantially the form contained within the bid documents and in accordance with said bid, providing that the total compensation payable under the contract not exceed the appropriation.

[Funding Sources: DOT103CP 003818 and DOT102CP 003818] (Submitted by the Mayor) (Recommended by the Director of Capital Projects) (Three Bids Submitted

News You Can Use: 10-13-23

The City of Birmingham honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

• During the month of October, the City of Birmingham is honoring the strength, courage, and resilience of our Breast Cancer fighters, thrivers, and survivors. On Tuesday, Oct. 17, City of Birmingham employees are invited to an informative Lunch & Learn, themed Sheroes Wear Pink. The event will feature Dr. Erica Reasor, director of UAB’s Breast Cancer Program, and Raquel Owen, founder of Pinktopps LLC, in the Hall of Distinguished Citizens beginning at 11 a.m. Complimentary lunch and sweet treats will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Afterward, be sure to check out a special tribute mural that will be unveiled on the second floor of City Hall near the Boutwell crosswalk. See the attached for details. 

New food fest to celebrate Birmingham’s culinary scene now through Oct. 15   

• To further enhance Birmingham’s national reputation as a foodie destination, a major food event is coming to the Magic City in October. The Bham FOOD+Culture Fest, which is being held now through Oct. 15 at Pepper Place, Sloss Furnaces, and other venues, celebrates the city’s great chefs, delicious dishes, and diverse cultural traditions.  Each evening will have a theme and require a ticket. For tickets, visit www.bhamfoodplus.com. 
   

Operation Hope to host several workshops 

• Enroll today in the 2nd Annual Holiday Savings Challenge. Learn to be proactive, create a game plan, get through the season without breaking the bank, and start the new year with no new debt. 

• Upcoming workshops: 

• Homebuyer Education Workshop. Saturday, Oct. 14 at 9 a.m. Social Venture, 5529 1st Ave. S 

• Holiday Saving Challenge Workshop. Thursday, Oct 19 at 11:30 a.m. Online (Zoom) 

• D6 Financial Wellness Workshop. Thursday, Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. New Hope Baptist Church, 1740 Cleburn Ave. 

• Visit operationhope.org for details. 

Know someone who needs a second chance  

• Make plans to come out to the Second Chance Hiring Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Boutwell Auditorium. Attendees and employers are invited. Go to secondchancehiringfair.com for details and see attached.   
   

BMA hosts Art + Conversation 2023-2024 season 

• The Birmingham Museum of Art is presenting its reinvigorated Art + Conversation series for the 2023-2024 season. This is your invitation to step beyond the canvas and delve into the stories, the history, and the passion behind the BMA's collection. Their inaugural session for this season is set for next Wednesday, Oct. 18. Dive deep into the fascinating life of Zelda Fitzgerald in The Legend of Zelda: Alabama Artist & Jazz Age Muse, presented by Graham C. Boettcher, Ph.D., Hugh Daniel Director of American Art. Unravel the captivating journey of this Jazz Age icon and discover the eras and influences that shaped her artistic prowess. 

• When: October 18 at 11 a.m. (Arrive at 10:30 a.m. for coffee and light bites!) 

• Where: Main Lobby, Birmingham Museum of Art (Lecture takes place at 11 a.m. in the Steiner Auditorium) 

• Tickets: Series of 6: $60 for members, $75 for non-members 

• Individual Event: $12 for members, $17 for non-members 

• Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register soon to secure your spot. Register here. 

Register for a Professional Development Day Conference  

• Learn business acumen, power skills, and more. Friday, Oct. 20. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at City Club Birmingham. Featuring Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and others. See attached for details. 

Mark your calendars for the Household Hazardous Waste event  

• Saturday, Oct. 21 from 8-11:30 a.m. For more information, call 205-325-8741. See flyer for details. 

The Get Down will take place at Avondale Park   

• Presented by Seasick Records and Yellowhammer Print Shop. Featuring arts, music, records, and vintage. With Cha Wa, Shaheed & DJ Supreme, and more. Sunday, Oct. 22. See attached for details

Don’t miss Classic Cocktails with Birmingham Public Library  

• The Birmingham Public Library will host Classic Cocktails, a kickoff party leading up to this year’s Magic City Classic football game. Classic Cocktails will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at downtown’s Central Library. The Second Annual Classic Cocktails will feature a tasting of locally distilled spirits, music from DJ Chris Coleman of Birmingham’s  V94.9 FM,  tailgate food, a cigar lounge provided by Cigars & More, a 360-photo booth, specialty cocktails, along with some surprises!  Event proceeds will fund programs at all BPL locations, which help the Birmingham Public Library continue to provide the community with the highest-quality experience of lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and enjoyment. Tickets are available online through Eventbrite: Classic Cocktails: A Magic City Classic Kickoff Party Tickets, Tue, Oct 24, 2023 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite  
   

Come out to the Old School Magic City Classic Concert 

• Commissioner Sheila Tyson is presenting a free live concert featuring Bobby Rush, V.I.C. The Wobble Guy and Willie Clayton. Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. BJCC East Ballroom A&B. See attached for details.  

Make plans to attend the Magic City Classic Meet & Greet Day Party 

• Join the West End Community and Commissioner Sheila Tyson for free food and drinks (while they last). Arlington House. Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 12-4 p.m. Featuring DJ Bad Boy Butch. Voter registration on site. See attached for details.  

Come out to a free community family  

• Join the VFW Post 668 for a community fun day. All are welcome to come to their post located at 1801 11th Ave. North. Saturday, Oct. 28 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be kid activities, a bouncy house, a slide, and a dunking tank. Free food. All are welcome. See attached. 

Nancy’s Soul Food Sunday All Black Affair  

• Featuring High Energy Band. Sunday, Oct. 29. 3-7 p.m. Woodrow Hall, 5540 1st Ave. North/ $40. See attached for details.   

FORGING JUSTICE POSTER SERIES   

The city's 60th commemoration poster series continues 

• October is the month we reflect upon the acts of Social Justice. October's poster is themed “Growing in Solidarity" and features a proud fist sprouting from a bouquet of thorned roses. Free copies of this month’s poster are available in city hall. You can also check out the calendar of events for the 60th commemoration events happening all year at birminghamal.gov/forgingjustice. 

Upcoming Southside Community Framework Plan Meetings

City of Birmingham Awarded $8 million Rail Safety Improvement Grant to alleviate dangerous crossings at Harris Homes

City of Birmingham Awarded $8 million Rail Safety Improvement Grant to alleviate crossing hazards at Harris Homes

Press Release 

September 25, 2023 
 

The City of Birmingham has been awarded an $8 million federal Consolidated Rail and Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) Grant, the first major step in helping to alleviate the dangerous rail hazards in the Harris Homes Public Housing Community.
 
Residents living in this area have, for the better part of a century, been forced to endure trains parked at both entrances, completely encircling their homes every 7-10 days for over fifty years.
 
Councilor Darrell O’Quinn, who represents the neighborhood and who has spearheaded the Council’s efforts to secure this grant funding, hailed this as a huge win for the residents who’ve had to live with these unsafe conditions for years.
 
“It’s hard not to get a little emotional thinking about what this will mean for the residents of this area. This is an opportunity to drastically improve the quality of life for so many of my neighbors,” Councilor O’Quinn said. “I’d like to take a moment and thank our partners at Norfolk Southern, who own the rail corridor in question. They have been a tremendous partner in moving this initiative forward and will be committing $1.5 million in funding to this initial planning and engineering grant. It’s the largest financial commitment they’ve made to a project of this type, ever. My office has remained in close contact with their representatives over the last several years and we could not have gotten to this point without their dedication to improve the lives of those living near their tracks.”

“Norfolk Southern is committed to our communities, through the businesses we serve and the towns we call home," said Norfolk Southern President and CEO Alan H. Shaw. "Together, with the Cities of Birmingham and Trussville, we are making transportation infrastructure safer for residents, through the State of Alabama’s R.E.D.E.S.I.G.N Alabama program. This announcement is indicative of how businesses, communities, and local, state, and federal leaders can collaborate to improve safety.”

This isn’t just an issue about blocked train crossings. This is a project that is going to have far-reaching impacts on our local economy and the ability to construct more affordable housing.

For the last several years there has been well-documented global supply chain issues. Rail infrastructure is a big part of that and this corridor that passes through Birmingham is the most heavily trafficked in the entire state – 50 to 60 trains a day. These improvements will help address that issue on a local level and improve our capacity to move cargo.

“Today marks a major step forward in our fight against blocked railroad crossings in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,” U.S. Congresswoman Terri Sewell said. “This funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a critical part of our long-term strategy to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and will go a long way in improving the quality of life for those living in and around Birmingham. Securing this funding was truly a team effort, and I want to thank the City of Birmingham and our local leaders for their hard work in developing such a strong proposal and Norfolk Southern for their significant financial commitment to this project. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to address blocked railroad crossings.”
 
The proposed project involves two segments of Norfolk Southern’s railway line and will help develop plans for various track, bridge, signal and road realignments to prevent the blockage of the roads leading in and out of Harris Homes. This will include grade separations and the closure of multiple crossings and will also have a positive impact on the freight and passenger rail operations in the city.
 
This is a multi-jurisdictional project and would not have been possible without the coordinated efforts of multiple partners and agencies.
 
“This is a great example of the kind of impact that regional cooperation can yield, especially when you have multiple municipalities collaborating on a project of this size. Trussville City Councilor Lisa Bright has helped lead the way on their end. I’d like to thank all our partners who helped make this possible for our residents: Congresswoman Terri Sewell, HABD and their CEO Dontrelle Foster, FRA Administrator Amit Bose – who visited Harris Homes – my colleagues on the Birmingham City Council -- Councilor JT Moore for his ARPA contributions -- Mayor Randall Woodfin and Woodlawn United for their support,” Councilor O’Quinn said.
 
Federal noise abatement standards are a big factor when constructing new affordable housing. In addition to helping alleviate dangerous crossings and improving rail logistics in Birmingham, this grant will help bring the possibility for more revitalization efforts and affordable housing units in Woodlawn, a goal that Woodlawn United has been focused on in recent years.
 
Councilor O’Quinn and Councilor JT Moore both contributed American Rescue Plan Act Funding to assist with this project. This grant funding is the first major step in remediating this issue for Harris Homes. This is a developing story and more information will be presented when it’s available.
 

Birmingham City Council Highlights 8.29.2

Birmingham City Council Highlights 8.29.23

ITEMS 18-19

The Birmingham City Council has voted to delay considering proposed amendments to the City’s parking and towing ordinances following a public hearing at today’s Council meeting.

Several representatives from local towing companies addressed the Council during the hearing and raised concerns over the proposed language surrounding insurance coverage in the updated ordinance. In order to get the corrected language included into the ordinance, there will be a two-week delay.

Written submissions for public comments will still be accepted until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 5th; the public hearing to consider the amended parking and towing ordinances will be held September 12th during the regularly scheduled Council meeting.

Written comments can be sent to Darrell.OQuinn@Birminghamal.gov

The Council will be in a position to consider approving the amendments at the conclusion on the public hearing on September 12th.

The Office of the City Attorney presented the proposed changes during a Town Hall held in June. Some of the key points of the updated ordinance include, but are not limited to, increasing insurance requirements for operators; clarifying proof of payment to help drivers with dispute options; prohibiting operators from towing/booting a vehicle while a driver is paying; additional payment options — the use of mobile and web payment systems; improved requirements for signage.

In addition to modernizing the way parking in paid for by phone, the updated ordinance also gives the Birmingham Department of Transportation purview to oversee parking signage placement and regulations.

Councilor Darrell O’Quinn, chair of the Transportation Committee, said he has been encouraged by the productive conversation and feedback from members of the public throughout this process.

“There were definitely issues that were brought up that we had not heard before when we heard from residents in June. It’s really great to get these comments into the public record,” O’Quinn said. “There were multiple people that have referred to the ambiguity of the signage that refers to overnight parking. I think that’s really valuable to for us to hear. I’m looking forward to this additional opportunity for people to provide feedback. I’d like to thank the Mayor’s team and our City Attorneys for their continued work and diligence on these important updates to our city code.”

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ITEM 30

The Council approved a resolution for a grant application seeking $15 million for the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program with the U.S. Department of Transportation to convert 4th Avenue North from a one-way to a two-way street.

This would take place from 24th Street North to 9th Street North through the downtown corridor. This program is part of the bi-partisan infrastructure bill that was passed by Congress in 2021. These conversion plans are supported by the City Center Master Plan and Northside/Southside Framework Plans, which have shown a need to convert several one-way streets as a way to boost economic activity and help prevent incidents of reckless driving.

This corridor is the home of the Fourth Avenue Business District. According to representatives with the City’s Department of Transportation, national studies have shown that converting roads from one-ways is a big boon for local businesses. Two-way traffic allows for people to access these stores from both directions and allows for a slower pace of traffic.

“I know we have had many instances of collisions at the intersection by the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and there is some confusion with drivers when they are passing through this area,” Council President Wardine Aleander said. “I think it’s so important for the City to support this historic Black business center. I am hopeful this grant application will be successful and we will be able to make our roadways a little safe and more supportive for local businesses.”

Most of the cost would be incurred from outfitting the intersections with new signals and ADA compliant features.

This corridor is located in an “area of persistent poverty” and therefore does not require the typical 80/20 percent grant match under federal guidelines. However, in order to strengthen the grant application, the City will be contributing $2 million towards the project in the event the application is successful.

Here is the item as it appeared on the agenda:

ITEM 30.

A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute any and all documents

required for the City to apply for a Reconnecting Communities and

Neighborhood (RCN) Program grant from United States Department of

Transportation in the amount of up to $15,000,000.00 to convert 4th Ave

North from a one-way to a two-way from 24th Street to 9th Street. This

grant requires matching funds in the amount of twenty percent (20%) of

the total grant received by the City and authorizing the Mayor to take any

and all actions and execute such documents as are appropriate and

necessary to accept and expend the grant funds on behalf of the City in

accordance with the grant documents. (Submitted by the City Attorney)

(Recommended by the Mayor and the Chief Community Planner)

BIRMINGHAM CITY COUNCIL: Week in Review, August 14th - 20th

Public Safety Chair (D9) Councilor LaTonya A Tate Hosts Credible Messenger in the Magic City

At Wednesday's Committee of the Whole Meeting, Credible Messenger Mentoring Movement President and CEO Clinton Lacey was in town for a presentation for the Birmingham City Council.  Mr. Lacey's presentation was one of several given at the meeting, geared toward addressing and reducing violence in the City.

Credible Messenger is a community-based crime prevention program that is currently active in 20 states.  While in town, Councilor Tate and Lacey also visited the Ross Bell Juvenile Detention Center and met with Jefferson County Sheriff Mark Pettway and Urban Alchemy.

Learn more about Credible Messenger here...
Watch the Committee of the Whole meeting for Mr. Lacey's presentation here...

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Council President Wardine Alexander Hosts Quarterly Chat and Chew with Neighborhood Leaders

Council President Wardine Alexander sat down with neighborhood officers during the annual District 7 Chat & Chew.

A number of neighborhood officers had the opportunity to voice neighborhood concerns to Mayor Woodfin and also break out into small groups to discuss projects, collaborations, and nonprofits.

Click Here to View Event Photos

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Council Votes to Approve Resolution of Intent for Birmingham-Southern College Funding

On Tuesday, the Birmingham City Council voted to approve a resolution of intent to provide funding to Birmingham-Southern College as the institution works its way back from a period of financial uncertainty.
 
The resolution of intent does not transfer any funds or establish a dollar amount for the one-time funding agreement. However, based on conversations that took place from the dais and during previous Education Committee Meetings, the leadership at BSC is seeking a commitment of up to $5 million.

The resolution passed 6-1 with the dissenting vote coming from Council President Wardine Alexander, who expressed her support of the institution, but said she would like to see similar investments made into neighborhoods across the city.

Councilor J.T. Moore, chair of the Council’s Education Committee, said he would like to see more opportunities for service-based learning taking place in schools across the City.

“We would love to see Birmingham-Southern become a part of the Birmingham Promise network of schools,” Councilor Moore said. “We want to increase the access that our students have to this institution, and create a more robust partnership with BSC, especially as we look to improve our reading levels in city schools. Their service-based learning model has been a great resource, and we’d like to build on that moving forward.”

Read more here...

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Council Pro Tem Smitherman Partners with Operation HOPE for Financial Wellness Series

Council President Pro Tem Crystal Smitherman has partnered with Operation Hope for a series of financial wellness workshops. This week's focus was on how to improve credit scores and money management.

We hope you will join us for the next installment when we discuss pathways to homeownership. That will be taking place at 5:30 pm at the West End Library on Thursday, September 21st!

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Public Hearing Set For Birmingham's Parking and Towing Ordinance

REMINDER: The Birmingham City Council recently voted to set a public hearing to discuss proposed changes to the City’s parking and towing ordinance. That public hearing has been set for Tuesday, August 29th during the Council meeting on the second floor of Boutwell Auditorium.

Read more here...

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UPDATED TIMEFRAME: Due to Chamber Renovations, Council Meetings are being held at the Boutwell

The Council voted to extend the length of time in which meetings will be held at the Boutwell Auditorium while the City Council chambers are being renovated. That completion date has been extended to December 19, 2023. 
 
The Council unanimously passed an ordinance earlier this year to change the regularly scheduled meeting location to the second floor of the Boutwell Auditorium, 1930 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard. The meeting time will remain 9:30 a.m. on every Tuesday.

If you plan to attend the meeting in person, please arrive early.  All meetings will still stream to the Council's Facebook page: @citycouncilbham