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Vacant Buildings - What To Do With Them?

As we all know, there are vacant buildings and houses everywhere in the Birmingham metro area. Some of these have been condemned, deemed dangerous, are uninhabitable, etc.  Some, however, have just simply been abandoned. Frozen in time. What do we do with these buildings? Continue to let them become an overgrown eyesore? I think revitalization is a great solution. I understand that this is an expensive option, but it is possible and it is happening all over. Cities all across America are developing plans to re-grow and reinvent their city, Birmingham included.  

In Huntsville, Stone Middle School was closed and put on the market in 2009.  A developer bought it in 2014 and turned it into Campus 805, an entertainment venue. Basically, they turned the classrooms into bars, restaurants, and recreational spaces. There is an arcade on the main level, axe throwing on the second level, and beer vats that stand tall in the gymnasium. They also have a large green space outside for games, picnics, etc.  Whatever your interest, they have something for everyone. It also gains attention due to pure curiosity. 

So what about Birmingham? Take Carraway Hospital for example. This could potentially be turned into several different things: a hotel, a training center, a rehabilitation center, event venue, luxury apartments, or even a haunted attraction.  There is also Dixie Manor, an abandoned house that was built before the Civil War. This is just one of many abandoned plantations/mansions. Several of these abandoned plantations could be a huge attraction! They could be revitalized and turned into wedding venues or even museums. The Pizitz is also a good example. It was once a department store and now it boasts 2 restaurants, 12 food stalls, Warby Parker, Yellowhammer Creative, luxury apartments, and more. 

Revitalization is very beneficial to any city.  For one, it makes your city look presentable. You need to have a fresh, clean, and inviting look. Take out the run-down appearance, get some progress going to make it look better, and people will begin to be attracted to the area.  Both people in the state and out of towners.  It creates a feeling of progress and security. It also allows a city to offer more things to residents by encouraging other businesses to develop which encourages increased interest in residing there.  A flourishing downtown is key to a strong community. 

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