The Birmingham City Council on Tuesday approved an application for a $10 million federal grant to modernize and improve traffic signals and pedestrian infrastructure for the city’s busiest intersections.

If approved, city officials will use the grant money to pay for improvements such as enhanced signaling, countdown timers, sound cues and accessible push buttons at crossings.

The improvements would focus on the most utilized, walkable areas of downtown, Southside, and Northside, according to city leaders.

In March, U.S. Department of Transportation officials announced the availability of nearly $1 billion in grants through its Safe Streets and Roads for All program.

The initiative is part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed by President Joe Biden in 2021. The law provides $5 billion over five years, with which thousands of communities throughout the country will fund projects aimed at reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries.

This is the second time the City of Birmingham has applied for this grant, and local leaders say they’re encouraged by the feedback they received from transportation officials during the last cycle.

If approved, the grant would require a $2 million match from the city.

New Library Board Appointments

In other business, the council appointed two members to the Birmingham Public Library Board.

The new appointees are Niaya Nelms and Sam South. They will replace members Willie Davis and John Lyons. The terms for the new members end Dec. 31, 2030.

“Appointing to boards and agencies is one of the most important responsibilities we have as the legislative body in Birmingham,” said Councilor Sonja Smith, Chair of the Arts and Parks Committee. “These positions need to be filled with individuals who are focused on ensuring the library system continues to evolve with residents’ needs. They’re essential community hubs that support learning, connection, and opportunity for every resident in every district.”