More redevelopment set for Birmingham’s Rail District

Redevelopment in Birmingham’s Rail District is starting to pick up steam as some projects close out and others begin.Finishing up first is the District Lofts, a mixed-use project that will start moving in people and businesses this fall. Beginning is the redevelopment of 2010 Cole, from an industrial building into a commercial structure on the district’s south side.The developer wants to turn the 1-story structure into an commercial building. The redevelopment will include repainting (dark grey) while adding doors, windows and awnings so the building can be divided into eight spaces. The three truck bays will be replaced with brick to match the building.It’s just the latest example of how the area is transforming from its Rust Belt industrial past into a vibrant urban center. The district is primed to take advantage of a proposed extension for the Detroit-Ann Arbor commuter rail line, straddling nearby railroad tracks. City planners are also looking at it as the potential hub for an east-west streetcar line connecting Birmingham and Troy.Source: City of BirminghamWriter: Jon Zemke