Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
New Birmingham amphitheater moves forward with Live Nation/BJCC agreement
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The Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) board has approved an operating agreement with Live Nation to manage a new 9,380-capacity amphitheater to be built in the Druid Hills neighborhood on part of the old site of Carraway hospital.
The agreement with Live Nation was the last of the primary agreements required for the BJCC to move forward with the project.
Community worked together to make the amphitheater a reality
“This is the culmination of a yearlong effort to bring together the partners and the necessary resources to make this project a reality. It shows yet again that our community can accomplish great things when we work together.”
Tad Snider, the CEO of the BJCC
Under the agreement, Live Nation will manage the facility for the BJCC and contribute toward the construction costs of the amphitheater.
The amphitheater’s total cost is estimated at $50 million.
The BJCC, City of Birmingham, Jefferson County and Live Nation each are contributing $5 million toward the project.
BJCC approves financing
In addition to approving the Live Nation agreement, the BJCC voted to authorize a $30 million financing plan that will go toward the construction cost of the amphitheater.
The BJCC will repay the $30-million debt over 30 years, using proceeds from the amphitheater’s operation as well as a portion of lodging taxes generated by the BJCC’s hotels.
“This is a huge step in completing the long discussed amphitheater in the footprint of the former Carraway Hospital. This is a prime example of what’s possible when public and private partnerships come together for one common goal. Having an entertainment powerhouse like Live Nation playing a key role in operating this new state-of-the-art facility will give Birmingham a major edge when it comes to booking concerts for this new venue. This is unlike any agreement we’ve had in the past, and it’s going to ensure that Birmingham continues to be the cultural and entertainment center of the state for years to come.”
Hunter Williams, Birmingham City Councilor and Chair of Economic Development Committee
Opening in Spring 2025
Work on the amphitheater is expected to begin by the end of the year. Owned by the BJCC, the new entertainment venue is targeted to open in spring 2025.
