State and Local Leaders Break Ground for BJCC Stadium
Local and state leaders turned the first dirt today on a lot that will become a new open-air stadium in downtown Birmingham. The $175 million stadium is part of a larger BJCC expansion.
This is the third ground breaking in 20 years for a stadium at the BJCC. Mayor Randall Woodfin says this time the stadium will be built because government and business leaders are working together.
“Everyone has come together to say what can be and make it a reality,” Woodfin says.
Completion of the new stadium is targeted for mid-2021, just in time for The World Games 2021 and the UAB football season. The BJCC expansion will help revitalize Birmingham neighborhoods and create more business opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses, Woodfin says.
Ray Watts, President of UAB, says the new stadium will be home to UAB Blazer Football. He says the BJCC expansion may be the most important Birmingham economic development project to date.
Jefferson County Commission delays discussion on World Games deficit
The World Games officials have asked the commission for an additional $4 million to help close a reported $14 million debt after the July event.
Secretary of State investigating Bessemer for potential voter fraud
While rumors of election fraud or irregularities have lingered in the city for years, Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill confirmed to WBHM his office is looking into allegations of voter fraud in Bessemer this election cycle.
Local health officials plan to increase monkeypox vaccinations
Health officials will soon begin offering intradermal vaccinations, reaching more people with less vaccine.
Combating gun violence remains a top focus of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
As violent crime in Birmingham and the surrounding area continues to increase, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Prim Escalona, uses a variety of tools and strategies to get firearms and bad guys off the street.
Some 3rd graders in local schools could be held back under new law
This is the first school year that third graders who do not read at grade level by the end of the school year must be held back in that grade, rather than passed on to fourth grade. The Alabama Literacy Act was passed several years ago, but its implementation was delayed because of the pandemic.
How one Birmingham custodian preps for the first day of school
When the kids are away, the custodial and maintenance staff in schools work all summer long. One custodian told WBHM about what it takes to keep the kids happy and healthy as they trade sunshine for fluorescent lights.
