Important infrastructure improvements are set to begin in downtown Birmingham. The South Old Woodward Reconstruction project is the third phase of downtown infrastructure improvements addressing aging infrastructure in the core of the downtown area. The project will reconstruct South Old Woodward from Brown Street to Landon Street, and will take place from approximately mid-May through mid-October.
The City’s contractor, Warren-based Angelo Iafrate Construction Company, also managed the award-winning Old Woodward Reconstruction Project in 2018 (Phase 1) and the award-winning Maple Road Reconstruction Project in 2020 (Phase 2). Similar to Phases 1 and 2, the South Old Woodward Reconstruction Phase 3 Project is driven by the need to replace existing water mains and sewer lines. In addition to new underground infrastructure, the project will also enhance the aesthetics and functionality of downtown Birmingham and improve walkability. Key elements in the design of the new streetscape include:
- Curb bumpouts at each intersection to improve crosswalks for pedestrians, mid-block crosswalks, raised planter beds and landscape features.
- Exposed aggregate concrete, granite bench seating areas and new street lights.
- Improved on-street accessible parking spaces, each served with an individual sidewalk ramp to improve conditions for those needing accommodations.
Work will begin with the removal of trees in the project area during the week of May 2, and lane closures will begin during the week of May 16. One lane will be maintained south of Hazel for southbound travel during the majority of the project. Businesses will be open during construction, and the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) will offer a variety of incentives throughout the project. New this year, the BSD will offer a texting service by TextMyGov which will be used to provide frequent updates to businesses within the construction area.
