By Scott Buttram
BIRMINGHAM — Birmingham city leaders are preparing to welcome a delegation of national Democratic leaders on Monday as they make their pitch to host the party’s national convention in 2016.
Alabama’s largest city was not among the original 15 cities considered by DNC officials, but that didn’t stop city leaders from entering a bid. Heading into Monday, Birmingham is among the final five cities under consideration to host the party’s nominating convention.
Mayor William Bell said city officials and other organizations had “worked feverishly” to prepare for the delegation’s arrival.
Colored spot lights bathed city hall in blue, while street banners touting DNC2016 have popped up all over town.
The DNC visitors are expected to tour convention space and reveiw hotel accommodations as well as transit, entertainment and dining options available for thousands of delegates that would descend on the city.
Columbus, New York, Philadelphia and Phoenix are the other four cities still under consideration.