Twice a month, the city of Birmingham’s Design Review Committee convenes at the Auburn Urban Studio to discuss plans to make alterations to structures that fall within one of the city’s many historic and commercial revitalization districts. This column summarizes recent DRC activity, with projects grouped by type and location. This edition of Design Review recaps the DRC meeting from June 10, 2015.
Signage Projects
Lakeview
An amended Master Signage Plan for the 29-7 retail spaces was brought before the committee. The amendment included an option for a third projecting sign for a mid-building tenant. The SkyCastle will have both a projecting sign and letters mounted to the building. The retro-inspired sign will include illuminated letters and an LED border that emulates neon. The sign will project into the right of way, which will need separate approval from the city.
Status: Approved
Residential Projects
Forest Park
Plans for a one-story addition to a Forest Park residence (900 Essex Road) were presented to the committee. The new construction will use materials that match the existing structure and will expand the original sleeping porch. The neighborhood association approved the project.
Status: Approved
City-Wide Projects
A representative from REV Birmingham presented the kiosk design and guidelines for the new bikeshare program coming to Birmingham. Preliminary approval is needed to begin manufacturing the kiosks. There will be 10 sites throughout the city that will also charge the electric-assist bicycles, all of which will be solar powered. Staff will ensure the bikes are returned to charging station. The majority of the bicycles in the program will be standard and there will be 400 bikes placed throughout the city from Five Points South to the BJCC and from the Thomas Jefferson Tower / Civil Rights District to Avondale. REV is working with the city on the needs for right of way agreements.
Status: Approved