Port Birmingham breaks ground on 'innovative' new warehouse development

A new “cutting-edge” storage warehouse facility with an expected $1.2 million economic impact is coming to Port Birmingham.

The Birmingham Jefferson County Port Authority (BJCPA) announced the news earlier this week. It marks the first time that the organization has worked in a public-private partnership (P3 Agreement) with Watco, a full-service supply chain solutions company.

Once completed the facility will primarily house cold-rolled steel coils. BJCPA said that the warehouse will enhance the efficiency and productivity of Port Birmingham across the board.

The organization leveraged funds from the inaugural inland port infrastructure grant administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) for the project. The projected total economic impact for the grant is estimated to surpass $8 million, with an expected retail sales impact approaching $6 million.

“The warehouse development project at Port Birmingham exemplifies the power of collaboration between local, county, and state government,” said Mahari McTier, BJCPA Chairman. “This catalyst project for the BJCPA will begin to position us as a key economic development engine in the region, and we look forward to playing a vital role in the growth and prosperity of the region. The leadership of the BJCPA wants to thank the City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, and the State of Alabama for the key roles they played in bringing this innovational warehouse facility to Port Birmingham.”

David Russell Jr, BJCPA Executive Director, said that the project is the result of teamwork.

“This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to bolster the economic vitality of Birmingham and Jefferson County,” said Russell Jr.

“Through strategic partnerships and innovative investments in infrastructure, we are poised to unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity within our community. This project would not be possible without alignment from the City of Birmingham, Jefferson County Commission, and the State of Alabama.”

Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens called it a “major step” forward in the future development of the BJCPA.

“It is perhaps the best-kept secret in economic development circles,” said Stephens. “It is now time to spread the word as we open this gateway to commerce and trade. Great work and job well done.”

“The inland port in Jefferson County is a vital component of Alabama’s growing economy,” said Senator Greg Reed, President Pro Tempore of the Alabama State Senate. “Its economic impact is felt throughout the area, and I am excited about this additional funding for the last component of their warehouse.”

“I could not be more proud and pleased by this welcomed news, and I am incredibly thankful for the work done by the stakeholders involved.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten