New flood prevention project underway near Highland Ave.; expect travel delays

Work has started in the Highland Park neighborhood to ease flooding issues on 26th Street South between Caldwell Park and The Nick. Travelers between UAB St. Vincent’s and Caldwell Park should expect delays over the next year because of a flood prevention project.

Expect travel delays

According to the City of Birmingham, the $5.9 million drainage improvement project will move in phases, starting at Red Mountain Expressway and 10th Avenue South and ending at Highland Avenue.

It is not occurring now, but motorists in the construction area should expect travel delays soon. The project is expected to last an entire year until Summer 2026.

Who will this project impact? There are several prominent businesses and community spaces nearby, including:

• UAB St. Vincent’s Hospital
• The Nick
• The Garage
• Underwood Park 
• Episcopal Place
• Virginia Samford Theatre 

A new restaurant called George’s, which is a block away, is also slated to open in the coming months.

Project long overdue

Highland Park Neighborhood President Elizabeth Sanfelippo told Bham Now that addressing the flooding issues at Caldwell Park, Virginia Samford and Episcopal Place are long overdue. 

“We are very grateful to Councilor Valerie Abbott, who made this happen.”

Elizabeth Sanfelippo, President, Highland Park Neighborhood

If you have questions or concerns about the project, call 205.254.2634. 

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