Environment
Freshwater Land Trust celebrates 30 years with new home along Rotary Trail
The land conservation and trail-building nonprofit now operates from the heart of one of the city’s most recognizable public spaces.
Birmingham launches public safety session amid ongoing crime reduction efforts
This year’s Academy of Civic Engagement will give residents a first-hand look at how public safety professionals do their work.
Historic Preservation Expert and Birmingham Redevelopment Partner Irvin Henderson Dies
Words of praise have come from groups across the nation for the man who worked to redevelop the old Ramsay-McCormack property and revitalize the Prince Hall Masonic Temple, among many other projects.
Monday Morning Watch | Week of Aug. 17, 2026
BirminghamWatch’s weekly rundown of public meetings and agendas in the city of Birmingham and Jefferson County.
BW Recommends | August 16, 2026
News and features you might have missed this week from around the region.
Government
View AllBirmingham launches public safety session amid ongoing crime reduction efforts
This year’s Academy of Civic Engagement will give residents a first-hand look at how public safety professionals do their work.
Birmingham Council Approves $3.5 Million to Expand Early Childhood Education, Literacy Programs
The council also set hearings on comprehensive plans for the southern area and Pratt-Ensley areas of the city, as well as OKing funding for a program to support existing businesses.
Tyson Says JeffCo Getting Its Pocket Picked in UAB Deal To Buy Old Cooper Green Mercy Property
The county agreed to sell the site of the old hospital to UAB and pay to tear down the building.
JeffCo to Consider Selling Old Cooper Green Property to UAB
One commissioner protested that UAB was getting too good a deal; the commission takes up the matter Thursday.
Education
View All$45M Capital Plan Proposed for Career Training Hub, Other School Projects
Birmingham’s mayor released a plan to use tax funds set aside for debt to pay for a career training hub, basketball court renovations and financial literacy program.
Coast Guard Ceremony Heralds New Day for Birmingham-Southern Campus
The ribbon was cut Friday for the new U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Birmingham-Southern.
Dr. Mark Sullivan Says Teamwork Drove Birmingham Schools’ Success — and His State Honor
The Birmingham City Schools superintendent was named 2025-26 Outstanding Superintendent of the Year by the AEA.
Birmingham Schools Superintendent Touts Progress as JeffCo Makes Annual Disbursements
Jefferson County commissioners on Thursday presented ceremonial checks to several school systems.
Environment
View AllFreshwater Land Trust celebrates 30 years with new home along Rotary Trail
The land conservation and trail-building nonprofit now operates from the heart of one of the city’s most recognizable public spaces.
Cooling Stations Open for Relief From Extreme Heat
The area is under a heat advisory through Thursday.
SELC Calls on City to Maintain Data Center Provisions
The law center is pushing for the city to maintain a special exception provision — and the public hearings that go with it.
Effort Gains Ground To Turn Historic Mineral Springs Site Into Public Preserve
Supporters propose to create a natural preserve on the Hale Springs property in Bluff Park.
Culture
View AllHistoric Preservation Expert and Birmingham Redevelopment Partner Irvin Henderson Dies
Words of praise have come from groups across the nation for the man who worked to redevelop the old Ramsay-McCormack property and revitalize the Prince Hall Masonic Temple, among many other projects.
Birmingham Art Alliance Opens New Gallery, Revives Downtown Corner
The BAA has opened a gallery on 20th Street at Third Avenue North to showcase local artists.
Healing and Legacy Continue in Gardens at Princeton Hospital
Former Birmingham City Councilor Carole Smitherman, with her daughter, current Councilor Crystal Smitherman, and the tree they planted at what is now Princeton Healing Gardens.
After Wandering the Globe, Legion Mascot Noigel Finds His Way Home to Birmingham
The Legion’s new mascot debuted this season.

















