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Birmingham Advances 2026 Housing Projects and New Nature Preserve
Housing initiatives and a new preserve move ahead with construction and openings reported in recent months.
How we reported this
Shadowbrook, a new community of over 50 affordable single-family homes, recently opened in Birmingham's Pratt City neighborhood to rebuild homeownership in disinvested areas.
These projects reflect ongoing efforts to add housing and green space across Birmingham and nearby Hueytown. Local residents may see changes in access to homes and outdoor areas as work continues on several sites.
Shadowbrook Affordable Homes
The Shadowbrook community provides over 50 affordable single-family homes in the Pratt City neighborhood. The opening supports efforts to increase homeownership options in areas that have seen less investment in recent years. This project focuses on single-family units rather than larger apartment buildings.
Star Uptown Cottages and Townhomes
Construction on the Star Uptown development began in early 2026 on the former Carraway Hospital property. The project features new cottages and townhomes, with completion expected by early 2027. Work on this site continues as part of residential growth in that section of the city.
The James Mixed-Use Development
The 272-unit mixed-use development known as The James is underway at the former Highland Plaza site. It replaces the demolished Western Supermarket location and includes a combination of residential and other uses. Progress on this project adds to the mix of housing types available in the area.
Hueytown Nature Preserve Opening
The city of Hueytown will open a 400+ acre nature preserve in the first quarter of 2026. The preserve adds a large green space option for residents in the region. Planning for public access continues as the opening date approaches or passes depending on final preparations.
Next steps include monitoring completion dates for ongoing builds such as Star Uptown and checking local announcements for access details at the Hueytown preserve once it opens. Interested residents can follow updates from city offices or project developers for timelines on when new homes or the preserve become available for use.