BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – An entertainment option that was set to open in Birmingham’s Parkside neighborhood this spring has been canceled. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema chain has announced that it no longer plans to establish a cinema in Birmingham. The franchise agreement for the Powell Steam Plant, where the cinema was planned to be developed, has been terminated.
The project, which was being spearheaded by Orchestra Partners, was seen as a significant anchor for the building’s redevelopment. However, Alabama Power, the owner of the Powell Steam Plant, and Orchestra Partners have jointly decided to make changes to the development team. While the reasons for the termination were not specified by either Alamo or Alabama Power, both parties expressed their ongoing commitment to the city’s growth and success.
We regret to inform you that Alamo Drafthouse Cinema no longer has near-term plans to come to Birmingham. The franchise agreement we had in place for the Powell Steam Plant has been terminated, stated Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in a statement provided to WBRC.
Alabama Power issued a response, saying, Alabama Power and Orchestra Partners have mutually agreed to make changes in the Powell Steam Plant’s development team. Both parties remain committed to the city’s growth and long-term success, and we look forward to great things ahead.
Orchestra Partners has not yet commented on the situation. It remains unclear how the Powell Steam Plant will be utilized without the planned cinema.
The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema had garnered excitement among Birmingham residents who were eagerly anticipating the new entertainment option. Its cancellation comes as a disappointment to those looking forward to a quality cinematic experience in the Parkside neighborhood. Currently, there is no alternative project in the works for the steam plant site.
As the news of the cancellation spreads throughout Birmingham, many residents and movie enthusiasts are left wondering about the potential future of the iconic Powell Steam Plant. With its prime location near Railroad Park, the historic building offered a unique opportunity for redevelopment.
The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema chain is known for its dine-in movie theater experience, featuring a wide range of food and beverage options alongside a curated selection of films. Although the cinema will not be opening in Birmingham as initially planned, the Alamo Drafthouse brand continues to thrive in other locations.
The cancellation of this highly anticipated cinema project serves as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that can arise in the development process. While Birmingham residents may lament the loss of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, the city’s growth and development remain steadfast, with numerous other opportunities on the horizon.
The halted plans for the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Birmingham highlight the ever-changing landscape of urban development and the need for flexibility in such projects. Birmingham’s residents will continue to explore and embrace other emerging entertainment options as the city’s transformation progresses.
As the city moves forward, the hope remains that a new development will eventually find its way to the Powell Steam Plant site, providing an exciting and engaging addition to Birmingham’s thriving Parkside neighborhood.
