No rollercoasters, but still big plans: Sloss director shares update on $12M master plan

There may not be a rollercoaster planned for Birmingham’s historic Sloss Furnaces (Happy April Fools!), but there are still plenty of exciting developments to look forward to.

Since we first reported on Sloss Furnaces’ ambitious master plan in November, work has been happening behind the scenes to turn those visions into reality. Executive Director of Sloss Furnaces David Arias gave Bham Now some updates on fundraising efforts and some details about projects that locals will see in the next few months.

The $12M ‘quiet phase’

While construction hasn’t started on the major additions reported on last year, the efforts to fund them is in full swing. Sloss is currently in the “quiet phase” of a capital campaign to raise $12 million.

This mostly involves reaching out to corporations and their associated foundations about gifts and grants.

“It just takes time to introduce folks to exactly what we’re trying to do and see what level of commitment we might be able to get from them to support this project…

“We’re talking to a lot of corporations, foundations and individuals who supported us when we built our visitor center back in 2012.”

David Arias, Sloss Executive Director

The public phase of the campaign is expected to launch once about 70% of the goal is met, likely in 12 to 14 months. However, those eager to contribute early can find a new “Future Plans” tab on the Sloss Furnaces website to learn more and donate directly.

A brighter skyline is on the horizon

While the $12M campaign continues, a separate series of lighting projects is nearly finished. Within the next 30 to 40 days, Sloss has plans to become a more prominent fixture of the Birmingham night landscape, Arias said.

• 1st Avenue Viaduct: Thanks to a recent corporate gift, the viaduct from 32nd Street extending 1,000 feet into the site will be “drenched” in high-quality LED lighting
• The Stacks: Phase II of the stack lighting is also nearing completion. Supported by a private donor, the new system will be significantly brighter than the current lights and will feature custom programming, making the site “pop” for drivers on I-59 and I-65

Leveraging local expertise

One of the most unique aspects of the current plan is how Sloss plans to utilize Birmingham’s industrial DNA. Rather than just seeking cash donations, Arias is approaching local engineering, construction and project management firms for in-kind support.

This strategy is already yielding results. For example, there is a tentative agreement to build an entry gate originally designed by local architect Richard Carnaggio several years ago.

“Birmingham has some of the best engineering and construction companies in the United States. We’re approaching companies who might be able to build some of the components that make up that overall plan.”

David Arias, Sloss Executive Director

Stay tuned to Bham Now as we capture the new lighting displays once they are officially unveiled in the coming months.

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