Special to The Times
The Birmingham City Council broke ground for the Crossplex Village next to the Birmingham Crossplex facility late last month and residents in District 8 are ready to see the benefits of their labor, said City Council President Pro Tem Steven Hoyt, who represents the district.
Hoyt has played an instrumental role in this project for over 20 years beginning as a neighborhood officer. He saw more than a vacant property and continued for more than two decades efforts to redevelop the property. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Hoyt talked about the work from community leaders and elected officials to bring the project to fruition.
The development is slated to have a Comfort Suites and Inn, a number of restaurants, retail shopping, an amphitheater. There will also be a walking trail. Not to mention Starbucks, which will employ 20-25 people. The store is expected to serve as a training center, which will provide job skills training programs for young people ages 16-24.
Residents say they are excited about the possibilities of jobs and opportunities coming to their community. Hoyt said the economic impact of the Crossplex Village will help propel the western side of Birmingham and revitalize the Five Points West area. That bodes well for the he western side of Birmingham and the city, Hoyt said.
