170: The Art of Downtown Transformation in Birmingham with David Fleming

Focus on supporting local businesses that give your city a unique character and "make the city cool."

Create incentives that help historic redevelopment while still allowing for new growth.

Work in partnership with various city authorities (parking, transit, housing) to align development goals.

Develop housing incentives that encourage economic diversity, not just luxury developments.

Measure downtown success by evening vibrancy and residential activity, not just daytime business metrics.

Recognize the importance of maintaining racial and economic diversity in downtown development plans.

Position anchor institutions like healthcare and universities as catalysts for urban revitalization.

Balance the needs of various stakeholders: residents, workers, and visitors.

Create development tools that preserve local character while encouraging economic growth.

Focus on making downtown a destination with diverse attractions that can draw millions of visitors annually.

Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers