News Summary
Birmingham is witnessing a surge of new businesses and community developments, including a new hair salon, restaurant, and coffee shop. Exciting changes also include the transformation of a former shrine into the Irondale Civic Center and the reopening of a grocery store as an ALDI. However, some beloved establishments are closing, and safety concerns are rising with plans for a new downtown lounge. The city is balancing progress and community voices, leading to an interesting dynamic ahead.
Birmingham Buzz: New Ventures and Community Talk
It’s an exciting time for Birmingham as the city buzzes with new businesses and the chatter of community concerns. In Crestwood, we have a fresh hair salon and shop opening its doors—meet Lucille’s. Owner and stylist Sarah Sims is ready to pamper your locks and bring your hair dreams to life. Who doesn’t love a little self-care time?
Over in Five Points South, food enthusiasts can look forward to Sauce’s & Suds, a restaurant that’s all about wings and beer. The space, previously home to the Black Market Bar & Grill, is getting a makeover under the guidance of Dennis Maple. With tasty bites and refreshing drinks, it’s sure to become a favorite hangout spot.
Caffeine Fix and Nibbles
Coffee lovers, get ready! The beloved 7 Brew Coffee Drive-Thru is gearing up for a new location at Montclair Place, right along Montclair Road. With more than 330 locations across the nation, it’s about time Birmingham gets its coffee fix from this popular brand.
In another big change, the former Zamora Shrine Temple is transforming into the new Irondale Civic Center. This $18 million renovation project is expected to take about 12 to 18 months to complete, set to kick off in 2025. It’ll be great to have a new venue for community events!
Shifting Gears at the Stores
Grocery shuffles are also in the works. The Winn-Dixie located at 150 Chelsea Corners will close in March, but don’t worry—it’s coming back as an ALDI! This transition is part of a big move by the German supermarket chain, so expect those popular low prices soon.
Meanwhile, Juniper is making a strategic move by closing its “Juniper at the Museum” café to concentrate on its flagship location in Forest Park. Sometimes, less is more!
New Libations on the Scene
The bar scene is thriving with the recent opening of Sloan’s, a new bourbon cocktail spot on 2nd Ave N, thanks to the team behind Bistro 218 and Bocca Ristoriante. This is the kind of place that’ll have you sipping cocktails in style.
Need a little pit stop? Look no further than Speedway’s new 24/7 all-purpose travel center at the Finley Boulevard exit off I-65. Perfect for those late-night snack cravings or a quick coffee run!
Sports and Banking Ventures
Meanwhile, Birmingham restaurateurs Kelli Caulfield and London Jackson are putting the final touches on their elevated sports bar, Do Not Disturb, opening in Homewood. Sports lovers will want to keep an eye on this new spot for game days!
In the next year, Chase Bank is also set to establish a new branch at Lane Parke in Mountain Brook, taking over a spot previously damaged in a fire. This is a great step towards revitalizing the area and enhancing local banking options.
A Wave of Closures and Safety Concerns
In serious news, Ghost Train Brewing Company has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and will shut its doors for good. Urban Smoke Bar & Grill is also closing its Fairfield location but is hopeful about finding a new space to reopen.
Along with business news, safety concerns have arisen with plans for a new downtown lounge, PRVLGE. Mayor Randall Woodfin has expressed worries about safety following a recent shooting in the area that left one man hospitalized. Following this, local residents and business owners are voicing their concerns, worried that the new lounge could revive past issues faced by nearby establishments.
As new businesses pop up and some close down, Birmingham is in a constant state of renewal. It’s a city that balances progress with the voices of its community, making for an interesting ride ahead.
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: New Openings and Closures in Birmingham
- Wikipedia: Birmingham, Alabama
- ABC3340: Mayor Opposes New Lounge Opening
- Google Search: Birmingham businesses
- WBRC: Downtown Birmingham Shooting Concerns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham, Alabama
- Bham Now: Elevate Your Birmingham Business
- Google News: Birmingham business news
