Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Top 5 stories including a sneak peak of Urban Parc in Five Points South
It’s the first of May and we’re bringing you five stories that you might have overlooked. These include updates on the upcoming new venue at Five Points South, the closure of the Golden Flake Factory and more.
1. Sneak Peak: Urban Parc is Birmingham’s newest fine dining, games, rooftop and fun spot
What’s happening: Located at the former site of The Hive (1006 20th St. South) between 5 Points Hardware and Homewood Suites, Urban Parc is one of Birmingham’s newest and most exciting entertainment venues.
Why it matters: Urban Parc in 5 Points South is a fine dining restaurant, rooftop bar and arcade all rolled into one. They recently held a soft opening and are expected to be fully operational by Mid-May.
2. Golden Flake factory to close in July after 100 years in Birmingham
What’s happening: Utz Brands, Golden Flake’s parent company, announced its decision to permanently shut down its manufacturing facility located in the North Titusville neighborhood. The closure is set to take effect on or around July 3, 2023, according to beststocks.com.
Why it matters: About 175 employees will be laid off at the factory. Approximately 100 employees will continue to work in Birmingham in distribution and logistics operations.
3. New Ramsay-McCormack redevelopment in Ensley moving forward
What’s happening: In a unanimous vote, the City of Birmingham Design Review Committee approved the construction plans for a new five-story, 30,000-square-foot commercial office building at 508 19th Street.
Why it matters: Three years ago, in the midst of the pandemic, the historic 10-story Ramsay-McCormack building was slated for demolition. Work to tear down the building began in October 2020 and continued to the summer of 2021. Today, the footprint of the building awaits construction.
4. City Council approves plan to bring new townhomes, lofts, El Barrio & Paramount to West Homewood
What’s happening: The Homewood City Council approved plans to replace the Econo Lodge hotel in West Homewood with townhouses, lofts and two popular restaurants.
Why it matters: Before the council voted, a public hearing was held. A number of residents expressed support for the plan and the future demolition of the Econo Lodge hotel, which had been the source of numerous incidents of crime according to the speakers.
5. SNEAK PEEK: Steele Hall Brewing opens in Trussville
What’s happening: Alabama’s newest brewery, Steele Hall Brewing, opened recently in Historic Downtown Trussville (227 Main Street, Trussville, AL 35173).
About the business: Co-owner Eric Mitchell commented on the opening:
“Ever since I started brewing, the dream was to get back home and do something like this. We owe a lot to the people that laid the groundwork for the entertainment district, Mayor Buddy Choat, the city and the pioneers that opened the businesses. They opened my eyes to what we can do here.”
Eric Mitchell, Co-owner, Steele Hall Brewing
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