The historic Powell Avenue Steam Plant, located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, represents an extraordinary opportunity to reimagine a piece of the city’s industrial heritage. Spanning a 3.09-acre (1.24 ha) site in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant Parkside District, this historic property is poised to become a cornerstone of downtown Birmingham’s continued revitalization.
Len Shannon, SIOR, CCIM, and Derek Waltchack, the founding partners of Shannon Waltchack, recently released the property listing to the market.
We’re thrilled to present a rare opportunity to own one of Birmingham’s true crown jewels! As the Parkside District evolves into a sought-after redevelopment hotspot, prime properties are typically the first to be transformed, leaving behind less desirable plots. But, by a stroke of luck, the very best piece of land and building in Parkside is now available for sale.
The site is situated directly across from Railroad Park and within walking distance of key landmarks such as Regions Field, University of Alabama’s Medical Center and College Campus-—which covers 63 blocks—and Children’s Hospital. Close to more than 3,000 newly constructed apartments, the Powell Avenue Steam Plant offers unparalleled potential for connectivity and activation. Its prime location, paired with its rich industrial character, makes it an ideal candidate for transformative redevelopment into a dynamic mixed-use destination. The current owner has already invested significantly in the property, renovating the structure to a cold, dark shell, complete with a new roof and windows, while also addressing environmental concerns.
With zoning and entitlements secured, environmental remediated, and approvals for state and federal tax credits already in place, much of the upfront risk has been eliminated, enabling developers to move quickly and efficiently through the project’s next phases. This is more than a redevelopment project—it’s an opportunity to breathe new life into a historic landmark, creating a space that honors Birmingham’s past while shaping its future. Whether transformed into a cultural hub, a commercial centerpiece, or a vibrant mixed-use development, the Powell Avenue Steam Plant has the potential to become a meaningful and iconic addition to the city’s evolving skyline and community fabric.
The team seeks a partner who can thoughtfully balance innovation with preservation, breathing new life into the space while respecting its rich historic integrity. The goal is to create a project that not only honors the building’s legacy but also invigorates the surrounding community, fostering growth and vibrancy for generations to come.
Contacts:
Len Shannon, SIOR, CCIM
205-222-1664
[email protected]
Derek Waltchack
205-223-2607
[email protected]
