New trees and wildflowers coming to Bessemer’s 5th Avenue

Bessemer is going to be getting a lot greener in the next few weeks. Keep reading to find out more.

Budding in Bessemer

Thanks to a partnership between Bessemer Redevelopment Corp., the Jefferson County Health Department and the City of Bessemer, a $221,000 grant will be used to plant trees and wildflowers along 5th Avenue in Bessemer as part of a new industrial buffer zone. The project will include:

• 114 evergreen trees
• 37 shade trees
• 5,000 plugs of grass
• 1,000 plugs of wildflowers

Everything planted will be native to the area and maintained by the partnership.

“Working in collaboration with the Jefferson County Health Department, creating the buffer in this area will bolster our ongoing efforts to create a safer, livable community and show that people still care about the Northside of Bessemer. It will prove that the Northside of Bessemer has not been forgotten about at its smallest level. It will show that others still care about the individuals who live in Bessemer. A green community with plentiful trees is a healthy community. Additionally, a shady street has the appearance of a peaceful and safe street that people want to walk down. Trees also contribute to reduced vehicle speed on roads. A green environment is also scientifically known to reduce stress”

Melanie Bouyer, Executive Director, Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation.

Community development

The project will create a natural buffer zone between residential areas in Northside Bessemer and the industrial area south of 5th Avenue between 22nd Street and 32nd Street. It is set to be complete in four weeks.

The new industrial buffer zone in Bessemer aims to promote walking and biking in the community. With Downtown Bessemer only a short distance away, this project will also help promote a safe way for residents to access the downtown area without a car.

Additionally, an affordable housing project across the street will begin in November, bringing new living options to Bessemer residents.

What do you think of this initiative in Bessemer? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know your thoughts!

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