Plans to create a daytime gathering space for unhoused residents in Birmingham are now on hold only days after city leaders approved the project.
Birmingham pauses downtown “Urban Oasis” plan
City officials announced they will reevaluate plans to build an “Urban Oasis” park on an empty lot at 1312 First Ave. North downtown. The city council recently approved funding to purchase the property so the project could move forward.
The planned space aimed to serve people experiencing homelessness during the day. It would offer restrooms, secure storage, shade and connections to social services. However, city leaders decided to review the location after speaking with the property owner and nearby business leaders.
Mayor Randall Woodfin said the city will now explore other possible sites. He emphasized that officials still want to create a safe and service-connected space for unhoused residents.
City council debate raised concerns about location
The Birmingham City Council approved about $168,000 earlier this week to buy the property. Still, the vote followed a long discussion about how the park might affect nearby businesses and downtown development.
Councilman Hunter Williams cast the only vote against the purchase. He questioned the location near Innovation Depot and raised concerns about the cost of the city’s approach to homelessness.
Supporters argued that many unhoused residents already gather downtown during the day. Most shelters close during those hours. A dedicated space could provide safety while connecting people with support services.
Officials say goal is to connect people with services
Woodfin spoke about the project again during a community event at Boutwell Auditorium. He said the main goal is to partner with local service providers and help people access resources.
City outreach teams meet people daily who need help but hesitate to accept it. Woodfin believes a dedicated daytime space could help workers build trust and relationships.
He also said the space could reduce pressure on sidewalks, parks and other public areas. Officials will continue reviewing locations that balance neighborhood concerns with the need to serve Birmingham’s unhoused residents.
Sign up for the Homely Birmingham newsletter to stay up to date on Birmingham.
