Disagreements over funding for the City Walk BHAM have surfaced between Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and Jimmie Stephens, president of the Jefferson County Commission. The Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center’s CEO, Tad Synder, indicated that the center can no longer manage the financial demands of one of the city’s newest attractions without additional support.
Mayor Woodfin is urging the Jefferson County Commission to contribute to the funding of City Walk, highlighting the importance of this communal asset. In response, Stephens clarified that the county is unable to assist financially due to budget constraints, emphasizing the disparity between the budgets of the city and the county. “You’re looking at an over $500 million budget with under 200,000 people versus a $266 million budget on 677,000,” Stephens stated, illustrating a ten-to-one ratio in funding capabilities.
Both officials serve on the board of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center, and tensions have escalated as Woodfin described Stephens’ refusal to support City Walk as “shameful.” He criticized the notion of expecting the BJCC and the city of Birmingham to cover all costs while the county refrains from participating. “You can’t have it both ways,” Woodfin asserted, emphasizing the collective nature of the amenity.
Stephens countered this by explaining that the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), which constructed City Walk, fulfilled its financial commitment by contributing $4 million when the attraction opened.
The BJCC released a statement underscoring its dedication to collaborating with ALDOT and other stakeholders to establish a sustainable funding model for City Walk BHAM. Synder noted the significant increase in visitors to the area, stating that year-over-year visitation has more than doubled from 273,800 to 562,500, according to the latest report from REV Birmingham. This remarkable growth highlights City Walk as a vital community asset, featuring playgrounds, pickleball courts, a dog park, a skate park, and a civil rights commemorative zone.
Despite meaningful progress with ALDOT, the BJCC CEO acknowledged the need for a long-term financial solution. “We cannot shoulder it alone. A sustainable, collaborative funding approach is essential to ensuring City Walk BHAM remains a thriving community destination for years to come,” Synder stated.
In a statement, Jon Paepcke, Communications Coordinator for ALDOT, affirmed the department’s ongoing discussions with the BJCC and other stakeholders to ensure that City Walk BHAM continues to serve as a vital community resource. The conflict over funding reflects broader challenges in municipal finance, as Birmingham strives to maintain and enhance its attractions amid fiscal limitations.
