Magic City Spotlight: Bush Hills welcomes progress in community revitalization

Bush Hills welcomes progress in community revitalization

Mayor Woodfin joined city leaders in celebration of community revitalization efforts in Bush Hills at Wilson Elementary School.

Live HealthSmart Alabama and BL Harbert International teamed to re-envision the site as a community center.

Click the image above or the button below to watch the event and learn more about the transformation happening in Bush Hills.

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin's proposed 2024 Budget covers transportation, road improvements and more

Mayor Woodfin's $554 million budget proposal commits $15 million to street resurfacing, $16.5 million to public transportation, supports our employees and invests in our youth. See for yourself at www.birminghamal.gov/2024budget.

Magic City Spotlight: $12 million resurfacing plan is under way

Road work begins under city's $12 million resurfacing plan

The plan to resurface roads around Birmingham is officially in motion.

Milling work started Tuesday along Redwol Drive. Look for more work soon around Valley Crest Lane, Old Farm Drive, Bellhurst Drive and Eastbrook Drive.

Click the button below to visit www.birminghamal.gov/neighborhoods to learn more about plans.

99 Voices: Rodney and Roderick Myers, Tuxedo

In the latest episode of 99 Voices, firefighters Rodney and Roderick Myers tell us about their journey from the "Brickyard" to 15 years of service at Birmingham Fire & Rescue.

Our communities are StrongHER than ever because of her

We hope you're keeping up! We are continuing to celebrate Women's History Month by lifting the names and stories of women across Birmingham. These women have inspiring stories that speak to their wonderful talents and genuine hearts for others.

Click the buttons below to see profiles and learn more.

Magic City Spotlight: Emergency rental assistance program is available to residents

Emergency rental assistance is available to residents in need

Birmingham residents with a financial need can now apply for rental and/or utility assistance.



Qualified residents are anyone who can demonstrate a financial need and be able to provide income and ID verification as well as proof of Birmingham residency.

If approved, up to 12 months of support is available.

Go to www.birminghamal.gov/renthelp or call 205-254-2309.

More Stories from the Newsroom

Birmingham let the good times roll in Mardi Gras parade

In case you missed it, Tuesday the streets of downtown Birmingham were filled with the sounds of brass, beads and all things Mardi Gras!

Click the button below to see more pictures on our official Facebook page.

New City of Birmingham parental leave policy creates sense of security for employees

Mayor Woodfin writes, "When I announced the new policy in January, I knew it was a big step forward for working families in Birmingham, and especially for all of those who make up our wonderful city staff."

The intent is only one perspective of taking this monumental action. Senior Planner at the Department of Transportation Paige Ishmael is a first-time mom-to-be and shares how the new policy impacts her.

She states, “I feel financially supported by my employer during a time where that is needed the most,” said Ishmael, who has been with the city two years. “That peace of mind is invaluable, and I’m truly grateful to the City of Birmingham for recognizing this need.”

Click the button below to read more from Mayor Woodfin's blog.

Ed Farm is providing technical skills training and professional development with BOLD funds

Through technology, BOLD Fund awardee Ed Farm is changing the trajectory of careers and communities.

Click the image above or the button below to learn how they are supporting children and adults in transforming their lives.

NSLM event celebrates African-American wineries and breweries tonight, Feb. 23

Join V 9.49's Lady Woo at the Negro Southern League Museum today from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for the Rhythm & Wines Spoken Word Black History Month Tribute, featuring African-American wineries and breweries.

Enjoy a wine-tasting sponsored by J&H Estates and Beered Black Man, and hear from some of Birmingham’s best spoken word talent.

This is a special, adult-only event. Due to the limited capacity for this event, registration is required.

Click the button below to register.

Magic City Spotlight: Budget surplus leads to more investments in Birmingham

Budget surplus to fund investments in neighborhoods, personnel and facilities

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin’s investment priorities have received final, unanimous approval from the Birmingham City Council to provide city employees with a 5% cost of living adjustment, increase personnel for Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services, improve and build key venues and support neighborhoods, libraries, parks and recreation centers through an $81 million budget surplus.

“I want to thank members of the council for working with me to achieve this major investment in our community,” Mayor Woodfin said. “Our responsible budgeting process which saw savings while also a significant boost in tax revenue provided the city with an $81 million surplus. Our priority is to invest in our greatest strengths – our neighborhoods, our employees and our facilities.”

For a full breakdown of the plans for how surplus funds will be used, see coverage by Bham Now, visit our official newsroom or watch the full press conference by clicking the buttons below.

WVTM covers how Page Pals can change the trajectory of our youths' lives

WVTM President and General Manager Susana Schuler shares a moment of clarity while hearing Mayor Woodfin give the State of the City Address.

Schuler recalls, "During last week’s State of the City address at the Birmingham Kiwanis meeting, Mayor Randall Woodfin said the best way our business community can help affect positive change in the city is to engage young people by 3rd grade in developing strong academic skills especially reading proficiency.

As a business leader, that’s not the answer I was expecting but it empowered me by knowing I as an individual can make a difference."

Click the button below to watch or read more about how an investment in our 3rd-grade scholars through Page Pals can change the trajectory of their lives.

Cornell Wesley recognized as 40 Under 40 in economic development

Cornell Wesley, director of Innovation and Economic Opportunity for the City of Birmingham, has been announced as a recipient of the 2023 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, the biennial award recognizing rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry.  

The awards program is hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI), a New York-based integrated marketing firm that works with economic development and travel organizations around the globe, and Jorgenson Consulting, a leading national executive search firm serving organizations in non-profit, economic, and community development industries.

We are extremely proud to have leadership in Birmingham whose service is being recognized nationally. Click the button below to learn more about Wesley's honor.

Magic City Spotlight: City Council supports safe sleep pilot program

Birmingham City Council backs Home For All pilot program

On Tuesday, Birmingham City Council unanimously voted to approve the purchase of 50 micro-shelters and take proposals for services to support unhoused residents.

The Birmingham Times reports, "The plan, proposed by the city, is called 'Home for All' and will see officials spending an initial $975,000 for the purchase of micro-shelter materials and supplies from Everett, Washington-based Pallet Shelter, which bills itself as 'The Leader in Rapid-Response Villages.'"

Click the button below to read more from The Birmingham Times on the questions posed by council members and the hope the council has for the impact of the new program.

Dr. Meghan Venable-Thomas describes the spirit of Home For All program

“When I think of home I think of a place where love’s overflowing.” This is the first line of a song in a musical I watched recently, “The Wiz.” A retake on the film “The Wizard of Oz” in which Dorothy, played by Diana Ross, is transported to an unfamiliar world making new friends along the way but ultimately all in the pursuit of getting back home.

Why would the whole premise of this iconic story and remake be all about home? Why is home so important? When I think of home, I think of a place I feel safe and well.

Where I can find peace, comfort, and support. A place of retreat and respite that allows me to show up every day. Imagine if the place you called home wasn’t any of those things, or if you didn’t have a place to call home at all.

Click the button below to read Dr. Venable-Thomas' description of what home means for us all and how the City is excited to take such a significant step in creating a pathway to home for many.

For City of Birmingham's Don Lupo, shelter project strikes an emotional chord 

The impact of Home For All is not just on our unhoused residents. Roy S. Johnson writes of the journey Don Lupo has lived leading to this moment and what it means for all that he works for.

Johson writes, "It took all he could muster to not rewind what those eyes have seen in a job that became a purpose, a job that began just before the turn of this century, a job he’s held under four Birmingham mayors—a job he’s become."

Click the button below to read the full article and learn more about allies of our unhoused community are feeling hopeful.

Mayor Woodfin presents resolution for 5% cost of living increase for employees

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin presented resolutions of intent for a 5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for all city employees and to fund new venues and restore key facilities during a meeting of the Birmingham City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee today.

The 5% COLA for employees, coupled with last year’s raise, would provide a cumulative 10% cost of living adjustment for all employees within a 12 month period.

“The city’s greatest asset to serve Birmingham is our people, the employees of our city. We appreciate your sacrifice and commitment,” Mayor Woodfin said. “The city is committed to investing in all city employees and providing competitive compensation in order to retain and recruit a customer-service based, efficient and effective workforce.”

Click the button below to learn more about the City's investment in people, its "greatest asset," and venues to increase economic impact.

Magic City Spotlight: Birmingham to celebrate 60th commemoration of civil rights movement throughout 2023

The City of Birmingham to commemorate 60 years since the 1963 Birmingham campaign for civil and human rights

For the entire year of 2023, the City of Birmingham – in partnership with area churches, arts organizations, activists, businesses and nonprofits – will honor the challenges, lessons and triumphs of the 1963 Birmingham civil and human rights movement. The 60th commemoration will include programs, events, workshops, and entertainment that will be open to the entire community.  

“The eyes of the world were on Birmingham in 1963 while a battle was waged for the equal rights of all of its residents,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “We plan to spend 2023 remembering and reflecting on the people and events that helped to break down segregation not only in Birmingham, but in our country.” 

Click the image above or the button below to hear Mayor Woodfin make the announcement.  Stay tuned to www.birminghamal.gov/forgingjustice as details develop

Birmingham's year-end progress report reviews 66 significant accomplishments of 2022

Mayor Woodfin writes, "Since taking office for a second time on November 23, 2021 we have taken great strides to address the goals of Vision 2025, our strategy to build on the progress of our first term. Take a moment to review some of the significant accomplishments in our commitment to invest in our people, reimagine public safety, renew our commitment to our neighborhoods and realize our economic potential."

See the full list at birminghamal.gov/progress and celebrate the progress of our city!

Be advised: City of Birmingham closed December 23 and 26,

garbage collection dates adjusted for holiday

In observance of the holiday season, the City of Birmingham offices will be closed on Friday, Dec. 23 and Monday, Dec. 26 with the exception of police, fire and 911.

As a result of these closures, residents were informed that collection for Friday, Dec. 23's uniform cart routes took place on Wednesday. December 21. Collection for the Monday, Dec. 26 uniform cart routes will occur on Wednesday, Dec. 28.



All other regular garbage collection routes will be serviced as normal on their next or following pickup date (i.e. Friday, Dec. 23 collection will be picked up on the next scheduled date of Tuesday, Dec. 27). Recycle collection will remain as scheduled on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Warming station open December 22 through 25

The National Weather Service has issued a Hard Freeze Warning in effect for Birmingham and all of Central Alabama tonight through Christmas morning. A prolonged period of very cold temperatures will be a threat to people and pets without adequate warmth. Exposed pipes that are not insulated or drained could burst. Please monitor weather updates during this extreme cold.

In response to temperatures falling below freezing, the City of Birmingham will partner with Jimmie Hale Mission and Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex to open a 24-hour warming station to the public beginning 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 22 through Sunday, Dec. 25. Those needing warm shelter can come to the BJCC South Exhibition Hall, located at 1962 9th Ave North.

Food will be provided. 

We will continue to monitor temperatures to determine hours of operation for the days following Christmas. 

The City of Birmingham plans to invest critical funding into supporting research and resources around food access. The City was recently awarded $298,736 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production (UAIP) Competitive Grants Program. This was a part of a $14.2 million investment across 27 states to support urban agriculture and innovative production. In addition, $1 million of the city’s American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds was recently approved to be designated for healthy food initiatives. 

“Eliminating barriers to healthy food access is a priority,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “With this funding we hope to invest in local, minority food producers to put healthy food on the tables of our residents.”

Click the button below to learn more about the challenge we face, how these funds can help and next steps in the process.

Magic City Spotlight: Martha Gaskins Elementary wins Eastern U.S. Robotics championship

99 Voices: Martha Gaskins Elementary School robotics team reigns as Eastern U.S. Robotics Champions

Help us celebrate and congratulate the Martha Gaskins Elementary School's robotics team on being the reigning Eastern U.S. Robotics Champions of the Fall 2022 CoderZ League Robotics Competition.

In the latest episode of 99 Voices, hear how fifth-grade teacher Dr. Yuvraj Verma is helping our students broaden their skills and minds to be ready for the opportunities of today.

A reminder about the city’s uniform garbage cart system

For the 20,000 households using the new uniform garbage carts, please remember that garbage must be bagged and placed inside the complimentary 96-gallon cart. If placed on the ground beside the cart or on top of the cart, it will not be picked up. Residents using the new carts should place their carts in front of their home. Any household garbage placed on the ground in alleys or on the ground in front of the residence will not be picked up.

The new cart system is serviced by automated trucks that use a mechanical lift to empty the contents of the carts in the truck. The process and schedule for the bulk trash and brush pick-up will not change.

Thank you for your patience as the city continues to educate residents on the new system. We encourage you as neighborhood leaders to help inform residents using the new system how to properly set out their household garbage in the new uniform carts.

For more information and updates, go to www.birminghamal.gov/pickup.

The City of Birmingham awards $850,000 to organizations to facilitate economic development through BOLD program

The City of Birmingham has awarded more than $850,000 to eight area organizations to fund innovative ways to help improve Birmingham’s economic landscape. The BOLD program, which stands for Building Opportunities for Lasting Development, provides financial support to organizations and agencies that are taking creative, evidence-based approaches to solving various community issues.

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

StrongHER 2023 is coming! First, meet Meesha Emmett

Next year's theme is "Born to Make a Difference: Then and Now," celebrating women's journeys from childhood to adulthood and the inspiring lessons learned along the way. Send your nominations to strongher@birminghamal.gov.

But we don't have to wait. Get to know Meesha Emmett.

One of the most painful moments in Meesha Emmett’s life has led to her life's work to combat suicide.

In May 2013, Meesha was 29 years old when she lost her best friend to suicide. She had known Alex since they were little girls.

"Devastating doesn't even begin to cover how distraught I was," Meesha, now 38, recalled. "And then came the questions: 'What if? How could I have helped her? How could I have stopped this from happening?'"

Magic City Spotlight: ShadowBrook Village brings new homes to North Prat

ShadowBrook Village to bring 52 affordable homes to North Pratt

Mayor Woodfin joined city officials, residents and developers for a groundbreaking at ShadowBrook Village, which will bring 52 new, single-family affordable homes to North Pratt.

"There will be beautiful family green spaces, a playground and a common area for all to enjoy," Mayor Woodfin said. "Imagine kids riding bikes through these streets, parents and grandparents enjoying an evening on the front porch. That’s what you will see here. That’s what will be here. Family."

New garbage pick-up system has begun for 20,000 households

This week, the city implemented a new uniform garbage cart pick up system. The first 20,000 households began a new schedule which will make garbage pick up more efficient in the city. The next 20,000 households will receive their complimentary, 96-gallon cart in early 2023. Those receiving a cart will receive notification by mail.

Read more at www.birminghamal.gov/pickup. Sign up for important city updates by texting BHAMREADY to 888-777.

Click the image above or the button below to watch a short video as Director of Fleet Management Cedric Roberts explains how the new system works and why it's beneficial.

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport celebrates new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting station

City officials celebrated the launch of the new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting station during at a ribbon cutting at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Birmingham Fire and Rescue will be staffed at the $12.4 million station 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

"As part of this celebration, let’s be thankful for the sacrifices and the courage our firefighters show day in and day out," Mayor Woodfin said.

Birmingham achieves highest ever score on Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index

The City of Birmingham has proudly achieved its highest-ever total raw score of 109, on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index. Additionally, Birmingham achieved MEI “All-Star” status for its perfect score, despite Alabama’s status as a state without non-discrimination statutes that expressly protect LGBTQ people.



The 11th edition of the MEI examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ people who live and work there.

Magic City Spotlight: Mayor Woodfin heads to Washington to urge cannabis reform

Mayor Woodfin urges the House Subcommittee on Civil Rights & Civil Liberties to reform cannabis laws

Mayor Woodfin testified before a House Oversight Committee on Tuesday to urge action on reforming cannabis laws.

“Congress must push the Department of Justice to process far more clemency petitions such that every American unjustly incarcerated is released and given an opportunity to participate in this new industry,” Woodfin said.

Click the buttons below to watch the video of Mayor Woodfin's testimony and to read coverage by The Birmingham Times.

The City of Birmingham announces Connect99, an Internet subsidy program

The City of Birmingham, in partnership with the Affordable Connectivity Program and EducationSuperHighway, is presenting Connect99, an awareness campaign to inform residents about a federal subsidy towards internet service.

“Having the ability to connect to high-speed internet is now a basic need,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “We are thrilled that our federal government is providing this service and want to do all we can to make sure eligible residents in all 99 neighborhoods have access to this resource.”

Financial Freedom Project educates students on financial literacy

Financial literacy can be found at the core of many challenges in life. The City of Birmingham has invested $1 million for a financial literacy initiative that will benefit Birmingham area students. 

In partnership with Birmingham City Schools, IMC Financial Consulting, and Goalsetter, participating scholars gain lifelong financial skills, receive coaching, and create their own stock portfolios.

This initiative is the first in the country to couple grade-appropriate and culturally relevant financial education with a savings account, an investment platform, and classroom curriculum powered by Goalsetter and Goalsetter Classroom.

We’re working to improve garbage pickup and protect workers. Here’s how

Mayor Woodfin recently wrote about his experience working alongside our Public Works crews:

I’ve always made it a point to seek out and listen to the people who are closest to the services we provide our residents. When it comes to residential garbage pickup, I decided earlier this year to go a step beyond listening to our crews — and to join them on the job.

I rode the back of a garbage truck, worked the routes and picked up bag after bag of household garbage. To be clear, I have always respected the important work these crews perform for our city. But being on the back of the truck alongside them gave me a whole new perspective.

Click the button below to learn more about the city’s investment in an updated garbage collection service and subscribe to InSync Birmingham.

Magic City Spotlight: Family fun center planned for West Birmingham in 2024

Mayor Woodfin announces a family fun center planned for West Birmingham in 2024

Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin has announced that the new, city-owned family fun center is planned for the CrossPlex property in West Birmingham. The facility will be home to a skating rink, jump park, e-sports center, bowling alley, food court, and more. The target open date is sometime in 2024.

“I am thrilled to honor our West Birmingham residents by bringing this into their community,” said Mayor Woodfin. “The concept of sports and entertainment options under one roof will be a game changer for our families, our children, and our visitors. I envision this being a major hub for family fun and plan to make sure it is a state-of-the-art facility because our community deserves it.” 

Learn more about the facility plans by clicking the button below.

Mayor Woodfin joins Jefferson County legislative delegation to announce “exhibition driving” bill

Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin joined members of the Jefferson County legislative delegation Tuesday morning to announce plans to file a bill in the upcoming legislative session to prohibit and impose penalties for certain forms of “exhibition driving,” which includes street and drag racing, burnouts, donuts, and similar activities defined within the bill.

The legislation would carry five to 90 days in jail and a fine ranging from $25 to $500 for a first conviction. A second conviction would increase jail time from 10 days to six months and/or a fine ranging from $50 to $500. Driving privileges may also be revoked for up to six months. 

“Exhibition driving is a problem that has spread through our community affecting our neighborhoods, our churches and our small businesses,” Rep. Hollis said. “I am committed to working with the city to strengthen the law to give Birmingham the tools to put a stop to this dangerous form of driving.”

Watch the press conference by clicking the image above or the button below.

Revitalization updates: Districts 6 and 7 street paving schedules released

The road to revitalization is being paved district by district!

The city is finalizing the 2023 Street Paving schedule. The city-wide resurfacing plan will be an estimated $12 million investment with as many as 246 road segments paved. That’s 43 miles. The current schedule and updates would include 27 road segments.

See the current list at www.birminghamal.gov/neighborhoods.