The Jefferson County Commission unanimously approved an economic development agreement on January 6 supporting a major reinvestment and expansion by American Cast Iron Pipe Company, a Birmingham-based manufacturer celebrating more than 120 years in operation.

The agreement backs ACIPCO’s long-term “American for Life 2030” initiative, a comprehensive modernization effort representing approximately $793 million in capital investment at the company’s Birmingham operations.

Central to the project is a transition from traditional cupola furnaces to electric induction furnaces, a change expected to significantly reduce emissions. Projections shared with commissioners indicate the upgrade could result in more than a 90% reduction in emissions, marking a substantial environmental improvement for surrounding North Birmingham communities.

The expansion is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs, with average wages well into six figures.

To support the project, Jefferson County approved a performance-based jobs grant capped at $320,000, tied directly to job creation and wage benchmarks.

In addition to manufacturing upgrades, the investment includes plans for a new lining and coating facility, along with a new employee center and administrative building.

Company representatives emphasized that the employee center investment reflects ACIPCO’s long-standing commitment to attracting, retaining and investing in its workforce as an employee-owned company.

County officials estimate the project will generate approximately $11.4 million in general fund revenue for Jefferson County over the life of the agreement, along with about $25 million in revenue for local schools.

The agreement reflects a continued commitment to reinvestment in Birmingham, pairing economic growth, workforce development and environmental progress as ACIPCO positions itself for the next generation of manufacturing.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News and 256 Today. You may contact her at [email protected].