The Sloss Furnaces, a historic landmark in Birmingham, has undergone a transformative lighting project that has illuminated the 1st Avenue Viaduct, a major thoroughfare running through its campus. This innovative initiative, funded by private donations, has installed 133 lights, making the landmark visible from every major highway. But the real magic lies in the new light feature under the viaduct, a collaboration between Sloss Furnaces and various local businesses and organizations.
The lighting project, unveiled in June 2022, showcases 111 light bars, multiple individual LED lights, and light panels, all capable of being programmed in dozens of colors and color combinations. This dynamic display can be tailored for holidays and special events, adding a festive touch to the historic site. The project's designer, Mike White, and electrician, LC Gibson, played pivotal roles in bringing this vision to life, ensuring the lights not only enhance the aesthetic but also contribute to the overall safety and visibility of the area.
David Arias, the Executive Director of Sloss Furnaces, emphasizes the project's significance as part of the landmark's future plans. The lighting not only adds to the allure of the site but also serves as a strategic move to attract visitors and support the local economy. The involvement of various entities, including Bianco, LLC, Gibson Electrical, LLC, the City of Birmingham, CraneWorks, Iron City Power Washing, Summit Electrical Construction, Pylon Building Group, and Ralph Carp, a Sloss Furnaces Board Member, underscores the collaborative effort behind this initiative.
The new light feature under the 1st Avenue Viaduct has already become a popular venue for events, hosting over 100 gatherings, including Bare Hands Inc.'s Día de Muertos Alabama and Birmingham Taco Fest. This transformation not only enhances the visual appeal of the area but also contributes to the cultural and economic vibrancy of Birmingham. As the lights continue to shine, they serve as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the preservation of historical landmarks, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore and appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of Sloss Furnaces.
