District Development

Building

Main Street Community

Urban Impact was recognized as a Main Street Alabama community in 2019. As a Main Street community, we are a part of an established collaborative movement with partners and community stakeholders that advance shared ideals for prosperity, business growth, and community investment.

4TH AVE FORWARD

Place-based Economic Development

This place-based economic development and community preservation strategy is designed to improve the quality of life in the southernmost portion of the Fountain Heights neighborhood in downtown Birmingham. Our 4th Avenue Forward slogan reminds us of our storied past but motivates us toward new opportunities. Rooted in the tenants of Main Street America, 4th Avenue Forward is our approach to grow a holistic, thriving economy by implementing modern equitable and inclusive development tactics that develops a place for residents and visitors alike.

4th Ave Forward Grant

The 4th Avenue Forward Fund is designed to catalyze and sustain the revitalization of Birmingham’s Historic Black Business District and the broader Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument District. The fund focuses on providing professional, technical, and financial assistance only to an existing and prospective black small business owners and property owners located within the Historic 4th Avenue Business District.

Site

Development

Masonic Temple

We are seeing signs of progress outside the Masonic Temple. Right now, the district staple is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. Built in 1922 by renowned African American architect Robert Robinson Taylor, the Masonic Temple became known as a social hub. Besides leasing to notable African American professionals, the Temple also housed the offices of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).⁠

IN THE DISTRICT

SUPPORT THE BUSINESSES

Check out these highlights of a few amazing businesses in The Historic 4^th Avenue Black Business District. Come support and explore all that these local businesses have to offer!

FLY V SHOWROOM

Drew Jones, a Birmingham native and former collegiate athlete, is the founder of FLY V SHOWROOM—a stylish showroom store located in the historic 4th Avenue Black Business District. FLY V stands for Forever Live Young and symbolizes growth, wellness, and honoring one’s roots. What began as a custom t-shirt hobby has grown into a flagship store in Birmingham’s historic 4th Avenue Black Business District, contributing to the area’s revival.

Drake’s Courthouse Cafe

Marcus Drake has been serving the Birmingham community for 14 years as the owner and operator of Drake’s Courthouse Café, located in the Hugo Black Federal Courthouse. A Westside Birmingham native, Marcus is dedicated to providing fresh, non-frozen meals while fostering loyalty and integrity among his patrons. Drake’s Courthouse Café offers not just meals but also a sense of community within the heart of Birmingham’s bustling downtown.

Datus Henry

Patrick Packer is the co-founder of Data’s Henry Industries, a pioneering hemp and CBD brand based in Birmingham. With roots in Alabama’s Black Belt, Patrick and his family have been trailblazers in the state’s hemp industry since 2019, creating a vertically integrated operation. Data’s Henry is renowned for its range of CBD-infused products, from wellness salves to cooking essentials. Patrick’s public health background and commitment to community education make him a leader in this emerging field.

Next Tatt2

Samoné Lewis is owner and lead tattoo artist of Next Tatt2, with locations in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. With eight years of experience in the industry, Samoné has created a warm, welcoming space where individuality and artistry thrive. A native of Ensley, Samoné is proud to contribute to her city’s culture while supporting aspiring artists and expanding her business into new markets. Next Tatt2 specializes in tattoos and piercings, emphasizing comfort and creativity.

CREED63

Danielle Hines, originally from Washington, DC, is the founder of Creed 63, a co-working and resource hub located in Birmingham’s Civil Rights District. Established in 2021, Creed 63 stands as a vibrant space fostering community, collaboration, and entrepreneurship. Danielle’s core values of integrity and excellence are woven into the fabric of her business. Beyond being a co-working space, Creed 63 provides private offices, virtual mailboxes, and a podcast studio, supporting over 300 small businesses. Danielle is passionate about creating a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurs, enhancing economic growth, and preserving the cultural legacy of Birmingham