Business & Tech

New Initiative Launched To Support Local Retailers

The First Avenue South corridor between 12th and 20th Streets will be closed to cars so local retailers can install pop-up shops.

Parts of the Parkside District will be closed on the weekends in May for businesses to put up tents.
Parts of the Parkside District will be closed on the weekends in May for businesses to put up tents. (Michael Seale/Patch)

BIRMINGHAM, AL — For the month of May, weekends in the Parkside District will include a bit of a boost for local retailers, at least that is the hope of a new initiative that will close the streets on weekends on First Avenue South to make way for pop-up tents for local businesses. A Birmingham Business Journal report said "The Parkside Trail," is a project by Orchestra Partners and REV Birmingham that aims to help local retailers struggling during the economic shutdown.

"Converting city streets into a multi-use trail is a great way to give Birmingham residents a space to practice social distancing while enjoying this great weather and supporting our local businesses," said Hunter Renfroe, Orchestra Partners co-founder and principal in the BBJ report. "Promoting walkability is a core aspect of our mission at Orchestra Partners – and we’re proud to lead this initiative alongside partners who share our vision for a walkable urban center."


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During weekends in May, the First Avenue South corridor between 12th and 20th Streets will be closed to cars. Read the full story in the Birmingham Business Journal.

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