Birmingham OKs $60M+ for pay raises, amphitheater, CrossPlex fun center and numerous improvements

Mayor Randall Woodfin’s list of investment priorities received final, unanimous approval from the Birmingham City Council today. 

Thanks to an $81 million budget surplus, the city has committed to spend $60.4 million in the current fiscal year on the following projects:

• 5% cost of living adjustment for city employees ($13.5 million) 
• 37 new Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services personnel ($2.45 million) 
• Library capital improvements ($3.6 million) 
• Park and recreation centers capital improvements ($4.4 million) 
• Vehicle fleet upgrades ($8 million) 
• Legion Field improvements ($4 million) 
• Rickwood Field improvements ($2 million) 
• CrossPlex Family Fun Center design and construction (up to $15 million) 
• North Birmingham amphitheater partnership ($5 million) 

In addition to projects listed above, the city plans to boost funding for sidewalk repair and neighborhood revitalization, weed abatement and the city’s legal claims fund.

“I want to thank members of the council for working with me to achieve this major investment in our community,” Mayor Woodfin said. “Our priority is to invest in our greatest strengths – our neighborhoods, our employees and our facilities.” 

Council President Wardine Alexander and Mayor Woodfin held a 30 minute press conference after the vote describing the impact each project will have on the future of the city.

What do you think of the list of projects approved today? Tell us on social media by tagging us at @bhamnow