Key Takeaways
- The former Carraway Methodist Medical Center Emergency Room will be transformed into an indoor entertainment venue as part of the redevelopment of the hospital campus.
- Demolition of parts of the hospital must be completed by May 30, with construction of cottages and townhomes beginning in March and indoor entertainment venue renovation starting in June or July.
- The development of the 45-acre site is expected to take 5-7 years, with multiple projects starting in 2026.
- The Coca-Cola Amphitheater, which opened in June 2025, hosted 28 concerts and drew over 174,000 fans in its first season.
Introduction to the Project
The former Carraway Methodist Medical Center campus, located just northeast of downtown Birmingham, is undergoing a significant transformation. The campus, which is now home to the Coca-Cola Amphitheater, will soon feature an indoor entertainment venue, cottages, townhomes, and outparcel developments. According to Brian Wolfe, chief development officer for Corporate Realty, the planned indoor entertainment facility will be a major addition to the campus, but details of the project are still under wraps due to a non-disclosure agreement. Wolfe did reveal that an announcement would be made soon, and that the lease was nearing completion.
Demolition and Construction Timeline
Demolition of parts of the hospital is currently underway, with a deadline of May 30 to complete the removal of all rubble. This timeline was approved by the Birmingham City Council, and Wolfe explained that the process involves not only demolishing the structures but also back-filling the former basements. Construction of cottages and townhomes is expected to begin in March, with the indoor entertainment venue renovation starting in June or July. The outparcel developments on the southern end of the site, along 13th Ave. North, will begin construction in September or October of this year. Wolfe noted that the development of the 45-acre site is expected to take 5-7 years, with multiple projects starting in 2026.
Challenges and Delays
The demolition process was initially delayed due to requirements for a federal loan application, which was eventually dropped. Additionally, safety concerns related to the proximity of the demolition site to the Coca-Cola Amphitheater, which was still in use during concert season, also contributed to the delay. With the concert season now over, demolition can proceed without safety risks. The Coca-Cola Amphitheater, which opened in June 2025, hosted 28 concerts and drew over 174,000 fans in its first season, and is expected to resume its concert season in April.
Future Development Plans
The redevelopment of the Carraway campus is a significant project that will transform the area into a vibrant entertainment and residential hub. The indoor entertainment venue, cottages, townhomes, and outparcel developments will all contribute to the revitalization of the area. Wolfe’s team is working to finalize the lease and announce the details of the indoor entertainment facility, which is expected to be a major draw for the area. With construction and demolition proceeding according to schedule, the future of the Carraway campus is looking bright. The project is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy and community, and will provide new opportunities for entertainment, housing, and economic growth.
Conclusion and Outlook
In conclusion, the redevelopment of the Carraway Methodist Medical Center campus is a complex and exciting project that will bring new life to the area. With the demolition and construction timeline underway, the indoor entertainment venue, cottages, townhomes, and outparcel developments will soon become a reality. The Coca-Cola Amphitheater has already proven to be a successful addition to the campus, and the future developments will only add to the area’s appeal. As the project progresses, the community can expect to see significant changes and improvements to the area, and the city of Birmingham can look forward to the economic and cultural benefits that this redevelopment will bring.
