As always, we are doing a great job but there’s always room for growth. Birmingham is currently in the emerging category (according to the IDA’s three-tiered system which labels downtown districts as either emerging, growing, or established), and our goal is to move into the growing category. To move into the next category, it’s important that we seize opportunities to strengthen our downtown. We need to work on increasing density and jobs – and improving the public realm creates a place where people want to live, work and play. 

Downtowns and center cities typically form the regional epicenter of culture, innovation, community, and commerce. An engaging downtown “creates the critical mass of activity that supports retail and restaurants, brings people together in social settings, makes streets feel safe, and encourages people to live and work downtown because of the extensive amenities.” 20th Street will be more vibrant and fun, attracting more people and spending and catalyzing more investment in the buildings around it! 

The authentic cultural offerings in downtown enhance its character, heritage, and beauty, and create a unique sense of place not easily replicated in other parts of the city. From an economic growth point of view, the 20th Street Refresh is critical to the overall success of Birmingham – it will give the city something to be proud of. As our city’s main street, all eyes are on it, and it’s our job to take care of it. We want it to be appealing to visitors. We want them to leave our city and already be planning their next visit. Or even better, we want them to start planning their move to the Magic City!