The City of Birmingham is launching a major redevelopment push in its Western Corridor after receiving a $2 million state SEEDS Act grant aimed at preparing large industrial sites for new economic investment, according to a city press release.
City officials say the funding will support early-stage planning and environmental studies to transform roughly 500 acres at the former Ensley Works site into a modern logistics and manufacturing hub, while also funding improvements at the Birmingport facility.
The SEEDS Act program provides funding to help communities prepare large sites for economic development projects, with a focus on site readiness and long-term job creation.
“This $2 million investment is about positioning Birmingham for long-term economic growth,” said Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “We’re taking deliberate steps to prepare the Western Corridor for the next generation of industry. By investing in site readiness now, we are sending a clear message that Birmingham is open for business and ready to compete for high-quality jobs that will benefit our residents for decades to come.”
According to the release, the first phase of the project will center on creating a master development plan and conducting environmental reviews across the targeted acreage, along with modernization work tied to port infrastructure.
City leaders say the effort is designed to leverage Birmingham’s existing transportation network — including interstate access, rail lines, air travel, and waterways — to attract national and global logistics and manufacturing companies while supporting existing employers.
The Ensley site targeted for redevelopment was historically part of Birmingham’s steelmaking base and played a major role in the city’s industrial growth during the 20th century. Large portions of the property have since gone underused following the decline of legacy heavy industry, leaving one of the region’s largest contiguous industrial tracts available for repositioning.
“This is an important step toward unlocking the full potential of our Western Corridor,” said District 8 City Councilor Sonja Smith. “With a renewed focus on smart development, we are positioning our district to compete for major employers from across the country and bring real opportunities to the people who live here. I’m optimistic that this effort will bring fresh energy, expand opportunity, and help ensure lasting prosperity for families right here at home.”
Plans also call for upgrades at Birmingport, an inland port facility that supports barge, rail, and industrial freight movement along the Black Warrior River system and has long been viewed by economic development officials as a key logistics asset for the region.
Redeveloping the historic Ensley property and strengthening port capacity are intended to convert former industrial land into a renewed engine for job growth, diversify the city’s economic base, and expand employment opportunities for residents, according to the release.
“This investment is ultimately about investing in people,” said Council Pro Tem LaTanya Tate of District 9. “When we create real pathways to stable, well-paying jobs, we strengthen families and give our young people reasons to believe their future is right here at home. Economic opportunity is one of the most effective tools we have to make our neighborhoods safer and more vibrant. By preparing this site for new industry and growth, we’re building hope for our entire community.”
Planning and evaluation work is expected to begin immediately, marking what city officials describe as the first step toward attracting major private investment and positioning Birmingham as a larger player in the Southeastern supply chain.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
