By james art BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBMA) – In a lengthy Joint Budget and Finance Committee meeting Monday, city officials discussed a new $4.5 million investment for infrastructure improvements in the area surrounding the upcoming Birmingham Amphitheater. With construction on the amphitheater nearing completion, this funding is intended to improve the pedestrian experience in the surrounding area, particularly in the Northside redevelopment project around the old Carraway Hospital. The project involves a collaboration with Northside Redevelopment, LLC, supported by a revolving line of credit with PNC Bank. City leaders have confirmed that there is no early repayment penalty and there is an intention to clear this debt early.
Newly approved funds will be prioritized for street, sidewalk and lighting upgrades to ensure pedestrian safety and create a welcoming environment for visitors to the amphitheater and surrounding areas. “The project has changed,” noted Melissa Smiley, a senior adviser to Mayor Randall Woodfin, acknowledging that previous infrastructure needs in the area were not funded in 2022. “The mayor asked to prioritize streets, sidewalks and lighting,” she continued , adding that the improvements will benefit both residents and visitors to the amphitheater. With construction expected to be completed in May, the amphitheater is scheduled to open in June 2025.
James Fowler, director of the Birmingham Department of Transportation, detailed plans for improved access to the amphitheater, focusing on pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and street improvements. These upgrades will include a walkway connecting the amphitheater to Protective Stadium, contributing to a more connected and accessible experience of the venue. “Good pedestrian connectivity is an important part of an amphitheater project,” Fowler said, emphasizing that a well-planned layout will facilitate access to the facility and surrounding attractions.
Live Nation strives for a world-class experience
Live Nation’s Jay Wilson spoke enthusiastically about the amphitheater’s future. “We are building a world-class 9,000-capacity amphitheater that will welcome fans from across the Southeast, the city of Birmingham and the state,” he said, noting that despite construction challenges, the project remains on schedule. “We have one chance to get this right,” he added, as Live Nation prepares for the first concert on June 22, 2025. According to Wilson, the $30 million funding for the amphitheater has been supplemented by $20 million from multiple agencies and favorable weather conditions are kept the project on target.
Corporate Realty’s Brian Wolf highlighted the transformation of the Carraway site, reporting that 90 percent of the old hospital buildings were demolished to make way for the redevelopment, which includes mixed-use housing. However, part of the demolition is currently on hold due to the requirements of a federal grant application with HUD to secure additional funding for a housing project.
Debate over sidewalk funding and neighborhood investment
While committee members ultimately approved the funding request, a spirited debate ensued about the city’s ongoing challenges in funding neighborhood infrastructure, especially sidewalks. Council member Wardine Alexander expressed support for the investment, saying, “You have to spend money to make money. I have to think about the people I represent.” Yet the discussion soon turned to the frustration expressed by Councilwoman Valerie Abbott, who has long advocated for infrastructure improvements in residential neighborhoods.
“I know sidewalks have been your bread and butter for over 20 years,” Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin told Abbott, to which she replied, “And I still haven’t.” Abbott bemoans the lack of visible improvements in local neighborhoods, recounting her own experience with Birmingham’s deteriorating sidewalks, which once sent her to the emergency room. “I care about the residents,” she said, expressing frustration with the city prioritizing high-profile projects over neighborhood essentials. “Residents always get the short end of the stick.”
Mayor Woodfin acknowledged the problem, noting that Birmingham has been “behind on infrastructure for years”, with pavement consistently emerging as a top infrastructure priority in community requests. “I share your frustration,” he told Abbott, while highlighting the city’s challenges in meeting multiple infrastructure needs with limited resources.
After more than 30 minutes of discussion, the committee voted to approve the funding request, setting the stage for further consideration at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.