Harbert Realty Services’, Harry Lynch speaks at Dedication of Restored 20th Street Underpass

A group of downtown supporters gathered this morning, June 24, as the newly restored underpass at the corner of 20th Street and Morris Avenue was dedicated. The underpass was completed in 1931 to elevate the railroad tracks, alleviating traffic congestion problems caused by passenger and rail traffic. Over the years the underpass fell into disrepair as it became filled with trash, graffiti and peeling paint.

The 20th Street Property Owners Association saw a dire need for this once frequented path to be restored. Fox DeFuniak of Superior Bank and Harry Lynch of HRS, were a few that appeared at the ceremony representing the Association. Fox and Harry played a large role in asking for assistance from the Mayor’s office to take on this project as they work on either side of the underpass and recognize the value the restoration would bring to downtown professionals and residents alike.

Mayor Langford spoke about the changes he hopes to implement in downtown Birmingham and wants to tear down the eye soars and renovate what he can save. Mr. DeFuniak talked about receiving a few letters applauding the restoration as it has brought beauty back to another part of Birmingham’s history. Mr. Lynch commented how just the simple job of painting and cleaning it up, helped retain the Compass Bank business offices downtown, as they have signed a lease in the 2 North 20th Building. Harry stated that the underpass is a pathway their employees will use to access parking, now that it is clean and lighting has been restored, a sense of security has been re-established.

View article in the Birmingham Business Journal:
http://birmingham.bizjournals.com/birmingham/stories/2008/06/23/daily17.html?b=1214280000^1659030&surround=etf