JEFFERSON COUNTY
County Offices
716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North
Birmingham 205-325-5171
www.jccal.org
Chamber of Commerce
505 20th Street North
Birmingham 205-241-8100
www.birminghamal.gov
Services
Anchored by the city of Birmingham and its world-class healthcare community, Jefferson County provides state-of-the-art medical care in nationally acclaimed hospitals and medical centers. Major hospitals that serve the region include the Baptist Medical Center, Brookwood Medical Center, Carroway Methodist Medical Center, Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Medical Center East, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Trinity Medical Center, and the University of Alabama Medical Center (UAB). Many of the area’s healthcare facilities are nationally and internationally recognized for their centers of excellence or expertise in highly specialized care. UAB is known throughout the world for its outstanding research, patient care, and innovation education programs. The Children’s Hospital of Alabama is the only free-standing pediatric hospital in the state, providing a wealth of specialized services that include a nationally recognized burn center. Jefferson County residents who would otherwise not be able to afford healthcare services can receive outstanding care at the county-operated, acute-care, teaching facility of Cooper Green Hospital. Veterans receive primary, secondary, and tertiary care at the Birmingham VA Medical Center, where specialized services attract patients from across the state. The Callahan Eye Foundation Hospital is one of the few facilities in the world devoted exclusively to advancements in ophthalmology. Norwood Clinic represents the largest private multi-specialty group practice in Alabama and one of the largest in the nation.
The dedication to educational excellence is evident throughout Jefferson County, where well-managed public school districts are complemented by a wide variety of private schools—both religiously affiliated and independent. The public school system provides some exceptional resources that include the Alabama School of Fine Arts, one of only three such state-support schools in the nation that are preparing students for careers in the fine, visual, and performing arts. The new downtown Birmingham campus has emerged as an anchor for the cultural district in the City Center. The Birmingham EPIC School offers an innovative elementary school that brings together gifted, normal, and challenged students in a unique learning environment. The Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School offers the only International Baccalaureate degree in Central Alabama. Colleges and universities in this area include Jefferson State Community College, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Samford University, Birmingham-Southern College, and the University of Montevallo.
Lifestyle
Jefferson County draws newcomers to a truly unrivaled quality of life that combines affordable housing with nationally recognized services and an exhaustive list of attractions and amenities. In spite of its status as Alabama’s largest city, the leading metropolitan center of Birmingham holds fast to its gracious Southern roots and friendly spirit. The suburbs and communities that surround the city are brimming over with attractive residential options, from lavish estates and country manors to exclusive golf-course communities and handsome subdivisions. The area’s planned communities offer a fine balance of commercial, recreational, and residential developments for the ultimate in convenience and comfort.
Nestled in the lush hills and valleys of one of the most naturally beautiful corners of the nation, Jefferson County enjoys four distinctive but mild seasons that encourage year-round outdoor enjoyment. Oak Mountain State Park and its wildlife center, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, Rickwood and Desoto caverns, the Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, and the rolling Cahaba River are just a few of the attractions that showcase the area’s breathtaking beauty. Wonderful golf courses, tennis courts, sports courts and fields, swimming pools, private sports clubs, and fitness centers are available to ensure quality leisure activities.
Those who appreciate the arts will find a kaleidoscope of venues and performing groups in Jefferson County that fill the annual calendar with exciting events. The Alabama Theatre was recently returned to its original opulence and serves as an elegant venue for Broadway shows, concerts, and the autumn Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival. Carver Theatre is the home of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, while the Birmingham Museum of Art features the City Stages annual musical festival. Families will appreciate such exceptional resources and entertainment centers as the McWane Science Center with an IMAX Theater, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Red Mountain and Vulcan Park views, Alabama Adventure Theme Park, and the Birmingham Zoo. Bringing together natural and hand-crafted beauty at every turn, Jefferson County is a study in quality of life and livability.
Birmingham
Municipal Offices
710 N. 20th Street
Birmingham
205-254-2290
www.birminghamal.gov
Chamber of Commerce
505 20th Street N.
205-241-8100
www.birminghamal.gov
Famous for its shopping, cultural, historic, and entertainment attractions, the Magic City is earning national accolades as one of America’s most livable metropolitan centers. Birmingham is an artful blend of old and new, historic and progressive. Magnificent architecture from the past blends gracefully with stunning new high-rise developments to create a distinctive skyline. Birmingham has proudly assumed its place among the nation’s leading financial and business centers, yet the city has managed to preserve the warm and gentle spirit for which the South has long been known. New residents will be captivated by the beauty and character of the Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods, filled with grand architecture and mature greenery. Acres of lush parkland, important monuments, cultural centers and performance venues, wonderful museums, high-fashion districts and malls, a lively nightlife, fine dining, and a thriving economy are just a few of the high points on a long list of Birmingham advantages. The city is brimming over with cosmopolitan advantages and amenities from permanent companies for the arts and children’s theatre to revolutionary public educational institutions and internationally recognized healthcare facilities. Known for its diversity, the city is emerging as a model for ensuring that all residents enjoy equal access to the finest that Birmingham has to offer. The expansive city of Birmingham is closely aligned with Jefferson County but also stretches into Shelby County.
Adamsville, Brookside, Graysville
Adamsville Offices
205-674-5671
http://cityofadamsville.org
Brookside Offices
205-674-9275
www.brooksidealabama.com
Graysville
246 South Main Street
205-674-5643
www.graysvillecity.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-241-8100
Northwest of Metro Birmingham’s bustle, the small communities of Adamsville, Brookside, and Graysville offer a quiet, small-town atmosphere. Tree-shaded neighborhoods, local parks, a strong community spirit, and friendly people are enhanced by natural beauty and tranquility. The Mountain View Golf Course provides a lush green space between Graysville and Brookside. Recreational and leisure activities play an integral role in community life, along with school and church events. The crack of a bat and the sight of polished basketball courts are familiar to local residents, who enjoy the close-knit spirit of a town where neighbors become life-long friends. Pristine surroundings, a short commute to Metro Birmingham, and affordable housing are drawing an increasing number of newcomers to this area. With its industrial park, Adamsville has evidenced a progressive attitude toward controlled, quality economic development. Adamsville and Graysville are conveniently traversed by US Highway 78.
Argo Town
Municipal Offices
888-799-3033
www.cityofargo.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-241-8100
The small community of Argo that straddles Jefferson and St. Clair counties is experiencing explosive residential growth, drawing record numbers of newcomers to the pleasures of a rural lifestyle and beautiful new homes. Hundreds of new homes are springing up in lovely subdivisions, harmonizing with the town’s long-established, tree-lined neighborhoods. Civic leaders are scrambling to upgrade and expand services and control growth through planning and zoning for this community in transition. Situated between Springville and Trussville, Argo is also a hotbed for potential business and retail development. New businesses are already opening, including convenient retail shops and services. Argo is approximately 25 miles north of Birmingham near Interstate 59, blending traditional small-town values with good schools, commuting ease, opportunities for outdoor enjoyment, and an emerging suburban atmosphere.
Bessemer, Brighton, Lipscomb
Bessemer Offices
205-424-4060
www.bessemeral.org
Brighton Offices
205-428-9547
Lipscomb Offices
205-428-6374
Chamber of Commerce
205-423-7736
www.bessemerchamber.com
Nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Bessemer area is less than 15 miles from downtown Birmingham. The city is bordered by Interstate 459 to the south and Interstate 20/59 to the northwest for commuting ease. Although the city population is less than 30,000, more than 70,000 people live with a five-mile radius of Bessemer. Residents enjoy well-developed municipal recreational facilities and services as well as regional attractions like the unspoiled natural beauty of West Jefferson County lakes and forests. Complementing the city’s jewels of Roosevelt Park and a well-developed YMCA, Oak Mountain State Park sprawls over nearly 10,000 acres just 15 miles to the southeast to offer horse stables, a golf course, lakeside shopping, and an amphitheater for entertainment and concerts. Golfers can enjoy numerous nearby fairways, while families appreciate the exciting rides and waterpark thrills of Alabama Adventure Park. Known as the “Marvel City,” Bessemer enjoys a bright future as one of the nation’s best business development sites. The small towns of Brighton and Lipscomb near Bessemer preserves an intimate atmosphere in close proximity to a wealth of urban amenities.
Center Point
Municipal Offices
205-854-4460
www.thecityofcenterpoint.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-853-9711
www.centerpointchamber.com
Taking its place as one of Alabama’s newer cities with its incorporation in 2002, Center Point is northeast of Birmingham and only 12 miles from the bustling downtown district. This suburban community enjoys quick and easy access to the metropolitan area’s wealth of amenities and attractions, including Alabama Adventure Park, the Birmingham Zoo, the McWane Center, the Birmingham Museum of Arts, and the Red Mountain Museum. Sport enthusiasts never seem to mind the 45-minute drive to the Talladega Speedway, distinguished as one of the largest facilities of its kind in the world. Aficionados of the arts can look forward to a full calendar of performances at the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center and other regional venues. Lush parks, tennis courts, private sports clubs, recreational programs, and the natural beauty of the surrounding area encourage an active lifestyle. The housing selection is affordable and attractive, blending well-kept older properties with an abundance of newer construction in a variety of architectural styles, sizes, and price ranges.
Clay
Municipal Offices
205-680-1223
http://clayalabama.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-680-6445
www.clayareachamber.com
Nestled in the low foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the recently incorporated city of Clay boasts the highest point in Jefferson County. Flowing in the lush valleys below are the origins of the treasured Cahaba River: Turkey Creek and Five Mile Creek. Nature tourism was the area’s calling card until the 1960s, when Crystal Caverns and Cosby Lake were major attractions. The lake is still a popular site and now features residential development around its periphery. New-home construction is the major magnet to the Clay area today, spurred by transportation developments and natural beauty. This lovely area has remained primarily residential, preserving its country flavor and rural charm in the face of brisk development and growth. Deerfoot Parkway now offers a five-minute link to Interstate 59, which brought even more newcomers to the area’s lake and mountain views. New schools that boast championship sports teams have sealed Clay’s identity as one of region’s hottest home markets.
Fultondale
Municipal Offices
205-841-4481
www.cityoffultondale.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-607-0169
www.cityoffultondale.com/fultondale_chamber_of_commerce/index.php
The former mining town of Fultondale is following the trend of many Metro Birmingham cities with explosive growth in business, commercial, and residential sectors. Beautiful new homes and lovely subdivisions are springing up in record numbers. In fact, the city’s growth in the past seven years has surpassed that of its entire cumulative history since the early 1990s. Well-developed recreational services and facilities include opportunities for area youth to enjoy supervised activities from softball and football to cheerleading. Black Creek Park offers a lighted walking track, a picnic pavilion that seats as many as 100, and a bandstand. Ideally located north of Interstate 65 just minutes from downtown Birmingham, Fultondale harmonizes the friendliness and strong community of a hometown setting with close proximity to world-class cultural, entertainment, healthcare, and entertainment resources.
Gardendale, Mount Olive
Gardendale Offices
205-631-8789
http://cityofgardendale.com/site
Chamber of Commerce
205-631-9195
http://gardendalechamber.com/site
Within the past decade, the lovely community of Gardendale has transformed from a quiet, small suburb of Birmingham into a bustling city that enjoys a leading position in Jefferson County. This tranquil pocket of friendly people, tree-canopied neighborhoods, and thriving businesses enjoys easy access to Interstate 65. Residents are only minutes away from downtown Birmingham and the regional airport for commuting convenience; although hundreds of local companies make it possible to work, live, and play in this attractive community. The influx of successful new businesses has enhanced the quality of life, offering handsome new retail centers and popular restaurants. Lush parks, sports courts and fields, tennis courts, golf courses, playgrounds, and local recreation areas ensure quality leisure activities for all ages. Colorful events and celebrations, from the Magnolia Festival to the Christmas Parade, dot the annual calendar and strengthen the community spirit. The unincorporated community of Mount Olive offers an attractive suburban atmosphere near Gardendale.
Homewood
Municipal Offices
205-332-6100
www.homewoodal.net
Chamber of Commerce
205-871-5631
www.homewoodchamber.com
Rich in tradition and community pride, the attractive community of Homewood is focused on a commitment to providing the finest in services and amenities. The emphasis on quality education and cultural enrichment is evident in the priority on fine arts education and programs and a first-rate library. Recognized Blue Ribbon schools were even commended in Money Magazine for offering a first-class public education in an affordable community. Private schools on every academic level are also available in or near Homewood, including Samford University with its panoramic Williamsburg-style campus and enviable national ranking. The park system is exceptionally well managed and encourages an active lifestyle with activities from quiet strolls through naturally beautiful surroundings to a rousing game of soccer. Situated south of Birmingham, Homewood offers a unique blend of bedroom community tranquility with a prospering business sector and an impressive retail corridor along 18th Street.
Hoover
Municipal Offices
205-444-7500
www.hooveral.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-988-5672
www.hooverchamber.org
One of the fastest-growing communities in the South, Hoover plays a vital role in the recently designated Birmingham-Hoover Metropolitan Statistic Area. Spanning nearly 50 square miles, this major metropolis stretches over Jefferson County into Shelby County. Residents enjoy the benefits of a health business environment, suburban conveniences, a strong retail sector, a lively cultural community, great restaurants, sporting events, and premier vacation areas close to home. The city even offers its own recreational vehicle park. Beyond the cityscape, naturally beautiful surroundings include wooded mountains, rippling streams, and lush valleys. Hoover is committed to keeping pace with a growing population, evidenced by the modern new library, a full-service recreation center, and Alabama’s largest state-of-the-art high school. Attractions and activities for youth are abundant, attracting many families to the city. Sponsored recreation programs cater to residents of all ages and interests, from foreign language studies and the arts to computer skills and personal image. The city is ideally situated at the crossroads of Interstates 65 and 459 for easy access to downtown Birmingham and the international airport.
Hueytown
Municipal Offices
205-491-7010
www.hueytownal.gov
Chamber of Commerce
205-491-8039
www.hueytownchamber.com
Founded in the 1870s, Hueytown was incorporated in 1960 in response to a growing population that recognized the benefits of an organized and cohesive government. Touting itself as a “City of Pride, Progress and Patriotism,” Hueyville covers a 14-square-mile area southwest of Birmingham. The city has enjoyed steady growth over the past four decades, essentially tripling in population. In spite of the influx of new residential subdivisions and commercial conveniences that harmonize with long-established neighborhoods and businesses, the community has managed to preserve its small-town flavor and friendliness. Residents enjoy city parks and recreational programs, proud of their reputation as sports enthusiasts. Metro Birmingham’s wealth of attractions and amenities are easily accessible from Hueytown, adding to the quality of life. The city welcomes visitors each year to its Dogwood Festival.
Irondale
Municipal Offices
205-956-9200
http://cityofirondaleal.gov
Chamber of Commerce
205-956-3104
www.greaterirondalechamber.com
Just east of Birmingham along the Interstate 20 corridor, the former mining and railroad town of Irondale is now a thriving and diverse suburban community. The railroads that cross through the town link the past to the present, showcasing the area’s historic legacy. The railroad observation deck is the focal point of the Annual Whistle Stop Festival in downtown Irondale, while the historic district displays railroad cars. An old red caboose has been given a new life as the home to the Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce. Across the tracks, visitors will find the original Whistle Stop Cafe featuring, of course, fried green tomatoes. Newcomers to Irondale are charmed by a town that captures and preserved the spirit of days gone by, when communities were family oriented and civic leaders were responsive and caring toward residents and local businesses.
Kimberly, Morris, Warrior
Kimberly Offices
205-647-5531
www.kimberlyal.org
Morris Offices
205-647-0596
Warrior Offices
205-647-0520
Chamber of Commerce
205-631-9195
http://gardendalechamber.com/site
North of the rapidly growing community of Gardendale, the small town of Kimberly, Morris, and Warrior share an ideal location along the Interstate 65 corridor. Established neighborhoods that feature a variety of homes along tree-shaded streets combine with local schools, parks, and services to offer a tranquil small-town setting in close proximity to first-rate urban amenities. Nearby Gardendale has evolved from a small suburb into a major business center for Metro Birmingham with hundreds of thriving companies, retail shops, restaurants, entertainment centers, and services. Lush parks, sports courts and fields, tennis courts, golf courses, playgrounds, and local recreation areas are all available close to home. The regional attraction of Rickwood Caverns State Park is located north of Warrior, providing opportunities to explore an underground wonderland.
Leeds
Municipal Offices
205-699-0900
www.leedsalabama.gov
Chamber of Commerce
205-699-5001
http://leedsareachamber.com
Proud of its designation as a Tree City USA, the lovely community of Leeds is located near the Interstate 20 corridor approximately 15 minutes from downtown Birmingham. Located at the edge of Jefferson County, the city actually sprawls into Shelby and St. Clair counties. In fact, Leeds is so closely aligned with the city of Moody in St. Clair County that the two communities are often spoken of as the Leeds-Moody area. Strong civic leadership has enabled Leeds to grow and develop in a manner that has preserved the character of a serene bedroom community. Leeds formed its own school system in 2003, and four colleges are available within a 30-minute drive. Logan Martin Lake is just east of the city for boating, fishing and water sports, while golfers enjoy such facilities as the River Oaks Golf and Country Club. The world-class auto racing of Talladega Speedway is only 20 minutes from Leeds, and Birmingham’s cosmopolitan attractions are easily accessible.
Midfield, Forestdale, Maytown, McDonald Chapel, Mulga, Pleasant Grove
Midfield Offices
205-923-7578
www.cityofmidfield.com
Maytown Offices
205-786-8611
Mulga Offices
205-781-0645
Pleasant Grove Offices
205-755-1723
http://cityofpg.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-854-3077
http://midfieldchamber.com
“The convenient city” of Midfield and the friendly city of Pleasant Grove, along with several other western suburbs of Birmingham, offer a cozy residential setting with good commutes to regional employment centers. Residents enjoy the close-knit atmosphere provided by welcoming and close-knit small towns with easy access to Birmingham’s first-rate cultural and entertainment venues as well as healthcare facilities and colleges or universities. Local parks, community centers, supervised recreation programs, tennis courts, play areas, and sports courts and fields are available close to home. Pleasant Grove offers a park with a wonderful play area just across from city hall. Midfield’s strong sense of community pride is evident in the development of its own school system, Midfield City Schools. McDonald Chapel and Forestdale are unincorporated communities that draw newcomers to affordable homes and a relaxed pace of life. Forestdale is conveniently located along US Highway 78.
Mountain Brook
Municipal Offices
205-870-3825
www.mtnbrook.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-871-3779
www.welcometomountainbrook.com
One of the most affluent of Birmingham’s suburbs and one of the wealthiest cities in the nation, Mountain Brook was originally developed in 1929 as an extensive residential subdivision. Breathtaking natural beauty, its own highly ranked school system, and beautiful homes in distinctive villages keep Mountain Brook at the top of the list for desirability. Planned by a Boston landscape architect, Warren H. Manning, the community features scenic roads that meander through estate-sized lots showcasing homes that range from luxurious to opulent. Many who grow up in this idyllic community return to Mountain Brook to raise their own families in the same atmosphere. Convenient commercial development is available in each “village,” while nature preserves on the adjacent slopes protect the pristine atmosphere of the city from urban sprawl. Walking trails and bridle paths create a recreational network within the development, enhanced by developed sports facilities.
Pinson
Municipal Offices
205-680-5556
www.thecityofpinson.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-680-6445
www.clayareachamber.com
One of the oldest settlements in Alabama incorporated in 2004, joining with the community of Palmerdale and Pinson Valley to become Pinson—a city that is self-described as having “A People of Pride and Progress.” Local residents were united in their desire for local control and overwhelmingly approved the proposed incorporation. The newly formed community is anxious to begin writing the next chapter in its long and colorful history, developing a master plan that harmonizes new development with the long-held traditions of Southern hospitality, warmth, and charm. Pinson lies in close proximity to the city of Clay, another recently incorporated community in this fast-growing region that offers good schools, countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, lively local events and activities, and an abundance of historical treasures.
Sylvan Springs, Concord, Rock Creek
Municipal Offices
205-491-3210
www.sylvanspringsal.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-241-8100
The small but growing communities of Sylvan Springs, Concord, and Rock Creek offer a friendly hometown atmosphere and easy access to a number of major highways and interstates within a 20-minute drive. Newcomers are drawn to the slower pace and unhurried lifestyle of these welcoming communities that share the legacy of being deeply rooted in traditional family values. Most activities revolve around local church, school, social, and civic groups. The town of Sylvan Springs was incorporated in 1957 but is just beginning to blossom with new development. Area youth enjoy the recently renovated ballpark located in Sylvan Springs Park. Concord and Rock Creek are both unincorporated communities that add to the selection of single-family homes and tree-lined neighborhoods. New subdivisions harmonize with well-kept older homes in long-established neighborhoods for a medley of housing options that seem to grow in number with each passing year.
Tarrant
Municipal Offices
205-849-2800
www.cityoftarrant.com
Chamber of Commerce
205-241-8100
Rooted in industry and incorporated in 1918, the city of Tarrant is still home to a thriving local economy that combines commerce and industry. Because of its heritage, Tarrant has evolved with a number of important advantages for business and industry. Easy rail access, close, close proximity to major interstates and highways, access to a major airport, the availability of land, and a good selection of housing have enhanced the city’s appeal for development as well as residential growth. Residents appreciate the close-knit atmosphere in Tarrant, where Birmingham’s wealth of cultural, healthcare, educational, and entertainment advantages are minutes from home. The city has developed its own independent school system, just one example of the cooperative, progressive attitude that keeps the community moving forward. Many active clubs and groups enhance the quality of life and allow newcomers a chance to become immediately acquainted and involved.
Trussville
Municipal Offices
205-655-7478
www.trussville.org
Chamber of Commerce
205-655-7535
800-949-8222
Incorporated in 1947, the long-established community of Trussville is one of the fastest growing in all of Alabama. Trussville has more than quadrupled in size since 1980, transforming from a sleepy bedroom community into a balanced, progressive city that blends lovely residential neighborhoods with a strong commercial and industrial base. Offering quick access to Interstates 459 and 59, the city enjoys easy access to the first-rate metropolitan amenities in Birmingham. The Birmingham International Airport is only 15 minutes from a Trussville address. Recreational advantages close to home include a community center, a swimming pool, and more than 300 acres of parkland. More than 120 acres of this prime property has been development into a sports complex filled with courts and fields. The senior center, a well-stocked public library, and schools that enjoy an enviable reputation are a few of the highlights of a city with a proud past and an even brighter future.
Vestavia Hills, Cabaha Heights
Municipal Offices
205-978-0100
http://vhal.org/
Chamber of Commerce
205-823-5011
www.vestaviahills.org
Vestavia Hills proudly points to the Temple of Sibyl as the symbol of the city, a grand monument that appropriately marks a community that has been ranked among the “Fifty Fabulous Places to Raise Your Family.” Area youth attend outstanding schools that serve neighborhoods lined with beautiful homes and meticulously landscaped yards. The city is nestled at the edge of the Appalachian Mountains at the top of Shades Mountain, overlooking panoramic Shades Valley to the north and the rolling foothills to the south. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life at a distance from urban bustle, but they are also close to metropolitan advantages and amenities in Metro Birmingham. The unincorporated Cabaha Heights community is encompassed within the city limits of Vestavia Hills, offering a close-knit spirit and friendly residential neighborhoods.
