Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
New plans for Ensley Works + Birmingport sites with $2M grant
Reading time: 2 minutes
Birmingham has scored a $2 million economic development grant from the state of Alabama to create a major center for logistics and manufacturing in the Western part of the city.
The funding, which comes from the state’s SEEDS Act program, will focus on the long-dormant former U.S. Steel Ensley Works site and the Birmingport facility.
“This $2 million investment is about positioning Birmingham for long-term economic growth. We’re taking deliberate steps to prepare the Western Corridor for the next generation of industry. By investing in site readiness now, we are sending a clear message that Birmingham is open for business and ready to compete for high-quality jobs that will benefit our residents for decades to come.”
Mayor Randall L. Woodfin
The initiative will fund the following areas:
- A master plan and environmental studies for approximately 500 acres in the former U.S. Steel Ensley Works site
- Improvements to the Birmingport facility
Recent developments at EnsleyWorks and Birmingport
Recently, both sites have received attention from the city and other local governments in the past two years.
In 2024, Alabama Power received approval from Birmingham to build a transmission substation at the Ensley Works site.
Last year, thanks to a joint effort by Jefferson County, City of Birmingham, Birmingham Jefferson County Port Authority, Watco and State of Alabama, a new 25,000 sq. ft. warehouse facility was opened at Birmingport terminal.
“This is an important step toward unlocking the full potential of our Western Corridor. With a renewed focus on smart development, we are positioning our district to compete for major employers from across the country and bring real opportunities to the people who live here.”
District 8 City Councilor Sonja Smith
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