Birmingham, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts is championing creative initiatives across Birmingham, awarding $214,000 in grants to support diverse projects in architecture, urban design, and graphic arts. Managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, the fund enters its third annual grant cycle while also hosting urban planner Joe Minicozzi, who will present strategies for sustainable community design at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Local nonprofits benefit from this funding, further nurturing Birmingham’s commitment to innovative design and community enhancement.
Birmingham
The Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts is playing a pivotal role in driving creative projects across Birmingham, with a focus on supporting diverse initiatives in architecture, landscape planning, urban design, and graphic arts. The fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, has entered its third annual grant cycle and has awarded $214,000 in grants for 2025. Seven local nonprofits have benefitted from this funding, which supports environmental initiatives and scholarships, among other projects.
In a related event, renowned urban planner Joe Minicozzi will present at the Birmingham Museum of Art on October 2. This presentation aims to illuminate strategies for designing healthier, more sustainable communities. Joe Minicozzi is recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Urbanists of all time, known for his innovative approach to urban planning, which includes using “Geoaccounting” to analyze land use, design, and economic relationships within urban settings. Minicozzi’s work has ignited important discussions regarding the economic health and fiscal sustainability of communities across the U.S. and beyond.
Funding for Local Projects
The Philip A. Morris Fund was established to honor Philip A. Morris, who made significant contributions to Birmingham’s design landscape as the former executive editor of Southern Living magazine. As part of its mission, the fund has financed various projects that embody innovative design and community enhancement. Current projects funded by the Morris Fund include redesigning local structures and supporting community improvement initiatives.
During recent meetings, Birmingham’s Design Review Committee (DRC) has reviewed numerous projects, including a residential renovation in Norwood, which was tabled due to unauthorized work that commenced prior to obtaining necessary permits. Enhancements that altered historic elements were noted as not conforming to neighborhood guidelines.
Recent Approvals by the DRC
The DRC has also approved three signage projects for local businesses, including Hallmark Automotive and Phillips Academy. Moreover, the new Muslim Student Center, situated near the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), received final design approval after undergoing several reviews. Plans for the First Presbyterian Church’s playground wall have been updated to include a new gate and a higher wall height, enhancing safety measures for children.
Another key discussion point during DRC meetings involved the Ensley demolition project, which recently received conceptual approval for the reuse of vacant buildings for parking and landscaping purposes. Additionally, the city is undertaking designs for the Willits and Bates Project, which aims to improve traffic flow and pedestrian accessibility in Birmingham. Changes to Bates Street will see its reduction to two lanes alongside the removal of an existing traffic island, while bumpouts at intersections are intended to enhance pedestrian safety.
Ongoing Commitment to Transportation and Urban Design
As part of Birmingham’s ongoing commitment to multi-modal transportation, recommendations to extend pedestrian crossing time were discussed in conjunction with other urban design improvements, reflecting the city’s dedication to fostering livable and accessible communities.
Conclusion
Through the efforts of the Philip A. Morris Fund and the strategic insights of urban planners like Joe Minicozzi, Birmingham is making substantial strides toward nurturing a vibrant and sustainable creative community.
FAQ
What is the Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts?
The Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts is an endowed Field of Interest Fund managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham aimed at supporting diverse projects in architecture, landscape planning, urban design, and graphic arts.
Who is Joe Minicozzi?
Joe Minicozzi is a renowned urban planner recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Urbanists of all time and is known for his approach utilizing “Geoaccounting” to analyze land use, design, and economic relationships in urban settings.
How much funding has the Morris Fund awarded for 2025?
The Morris Fund has awarded $214,000 in grants for 2025.
What projects were recently discussed by Birmingham’s Design Review Committee?
The DRC discussed various projects including a residential renovation in Norwood, approved signage projects, the new Muslim Student Center, and updates to the First Presbyterian Church’s playground wall.
Key Features of the Philip A. Morris Fund
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fund Purpose | Support diverse projects in design and arts. |
| Grant Amount for 2025 | $214,000 awarded to support local nonprofits. |
| Key Speaker | Joe Minicozzi, an influential urban planner. |
| Upcoming Event | Presentation at Birmingham Museum of Art on October 2. |
| Community Impact | Funding for environmental initiatives, community improvements, and historic preservation. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Unveils New AI Education Facilities
Alabama State Council Grants $3.8 Million to Arts in Birmingham
Birmingham Hosts Back-to-School Events for Students
Birmingham’s Tropea Shines as the Best Restaurant for 2025
Alabama Sees Key Leadership Changes Across Multiple Sectors
New Developments and Business Milestones in Homewood
Annual Gem and Mineral Show in Bessemer
Birmingham and Tuscaloosa Recognized as Small Business Hubs
Birmingham Launches A.W. Brooks Serenity Home for At-Risk Girls
Coca-Cola Amphitheater Set to Open in Birmingham
Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Urban Design Talk
- AL.com: Southside Prayer Center Approved
- C and G News: Willits and Bates Project Approved
- BBC: Birmingham News Article
- Dezeen: Birmingham School of Architecture
- Wikipedia: Urban design
- Google Search: Joe Minicozzi
- Google Scholar: Birmingham urban design
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban design
- Google News: Birmingham design funding
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
