CityWalk BHAM: New Downtown Project Taking Shape

BIRMINGHAM, AL -- The Alabama Department of Transportation last week unveiled the design for CityWalk BHAM – the public space planned under the new Interstate 59/20 bridges. While conceptual planning began in 2014, this project has had to adapt to many changes since its inception, including a massive I-59/20 bridge construction job.

The project will stretch for 10 blocks below the newly reconstructed Interstate 59/20, from 15th Street North to 25th Street North. The 31-acre space will provide better pedestrian connections to several downtown attractions and nearby institutions, including the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham Museum of Art, Alabama School of Fine Arts, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex and the soon-to-be built Protective Stadium, the new home for UAB football.

The plans feature a mix of amenities, including a pond and walking trails on the east end; a 1-acre dog park; a central pavilion with a water feature; a children’s playground; and proposed multipurpose recreational fields and loop trail on the west end.

As well, a meandering walking path would extend the entire length of CityWalk BHAM, in addition to sidewalks on the northern and southern perimeters, offering multiple ways for people to traverse and gain access to the public space and its many features.

Other elements proposed in the master plan include a skate park – one of the most popular ideas submitted during public-input sessions. A BMX bicycle track, a climbing wall and plazas that can serve as locations for festivals or food trucks are also proposed, as well as extensive lighting.

CityWalk BHAM will be completed in time for the World Games in 2021.