Birmingham Mayor Speaks out on Impact of Biden’s ‘Investing In America’ Agenda
Updated: Mar. 07, 2024, 2:38 p.m. | Published: Mar. 06, 2024, 6:53 p.m.
If you drive through Birmingham, Alabama, you won’t fail to notice signs of progressive change. Mayor Randall Woodfin attributes this transformation to the ‘Investing in America’ agenda advanced by President Joe Biden’s administration.
Birmingham’s Streets Revamped Under the Biden Administration
Over the past year, Birmingham has been undertaking a $12 million resurfacing project, improving over 40 miles of roadways that span across the entire city. Alongside the resurfacing, the city is undertaking measures to secure the roads for pedestrians and cyclists.
In a swift move, the city is witnessing the construction of new housing facilities and amenities in its center, demolition works to resuscitate lifeless regions, and various neighborhood projects to uplift parks and homes.
According to Mayor Woodfin, the Biden administration has played a significant role in this transformation. He believes that Biden’s ‘Investing in America’ agenda has sown the seeds of change, creating a profound impact that will be felt for many years to come.
The Role of the American Rescue Plan Act in Birmingham’s Transformation
The American Rescue Plan Act has funneled $141 million into Birmingham, aiding many of the ongoing projects. These funds have contributed to the demolition of blight, enhancement of transportation, home repairs, and much more.
Beyond the visible projects, Mayor Woodfin points to the invisible investments perpetrated by COVID recovery funding. These initiatives work to create jobs, upgrade education, enhance transit, broaden mental health care reach, and curb violence and crime.
Aiding Birmingham Residents and Addressing Homelessness
Under the Biden administration, more than $10 million were allocated to aid Birmingham locals struggling to settle rent and utility bills, courtesy of the COVID’s impact. With the support of Housing and Urban Development ARPA funds, $5 million has been deployed to address affordability of housing and homelessness.
Moreover, Birmingham has seen a $50 million Choice Neighborhoods grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, reviving crumbling, historic neighborhoods. This grant will give way to 900 new, mixed-income apartments equipped with workforce resources, coaching, counseling, health programs, and more.
Federal Support for Birmingham’s Transportation
Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Birmingham has received $8 million to address rail crossing safety issues and $21 million to create urban trails throughout the Civil Rights District and Smithfield area.
In all their efforts, Birmingham can credit $30 million in federal funding for its transportation advancements. The city is hopeful for a brighter future with these improvements that aim to enhance mobility and the overall quality of life for residents.
Investments for a Brighter Future
Despite criticisms from various corners, Mayor Woodfin insists that President Biden’s agenda has profoundly boosted Birmingham. These investments brought by the Biden administration are expected to continue making a massive impact across Alabama.
As the Mayor puts it, these are generational investments that enable the city to catch up on overdue infrastructure upgrades, improve neighborhoods, and empower the residents. The improvements are clear to see today, but the most significant impact will be felt by future generations. A child growing up in Birmingham today will witness a stronger community with more opportunities tomorrow.
