Birmingham will receive more than $2.6 million in federal funding to support floodplain restoration efforts along Village Creek and help reduce flooding in nearby neighborhoods.
Funding Supports Long-Term Flood Mitigation
U.S. Sen. Katie Britt secured $2.645 million for the City of Birmingham through the Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. The funding will advance the city’s ongoing work to restore the Village Creek floodplain and improve stormwater management.
The project aims to reduce the amount of stormwater entering Village Creek during heavy rainfall. Officials expect the improvements to lower flood risks for surrounding communities, especially the Ensley area, which has experienced repeated flooding over the years.
Addressing a Longstanding Challenge
Village Creek stretches about 44 miles through Birmingham and Jefferson County as part of the Black Warrior River watershed. The floodplain makes up more than half of Birmingham’s Special Flood Hazard Area, making it one of the city’s most significant flood-prone corridors.
According to project officials, water levels can rise rapidly during major storms. Neighborhoods, businesses, and public facilities along the creek have dealt with flooding for decades. Since 1970, the area has experienced more than 17 federally declared disasters, affecting over 30,000 structures.
Improving Safety and Community Resilience
City and federal leaders say the restoration project will strengthen Birmingham’s infrastructure while improving public safety. In addition to reducing flood damage, the work is expected to improve road access during severe weather and support local businesses located near the floodplain.
Mayor Randall Woodfin said the investment will help create a more resilient Birmingham while providing long-term environmental and recreational benefits for residents. Officials also noted that the funding represents part of a broader federal investment in infrastructure projects across Alabama.
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