Residents tell council event parking and blocked hydrants are impeding emergency access in their neighborhood

Two residents, Elizabeth and Arlene Bevel, told the Birmingham City Council during public comment on April 14 that parking overflow from nearby event venues (identified as ‘mom’s basement’ and Cahaba Brewery) is creating repeated safety and access problems on 3rd Avenue South.

They said event attendees park on lots zoned for single-family homes (addresses identified as 4346–4352 3rd Avenue South), block mailboxes and a fire hydrant, and leave vehicles in such a way that emergency vehicles cannot move freely. Elizabeth Bevel said she called police three times on a recent Saturday with no response and that the blocked hydrant had previously been replaced after being struck; she presented photos to the council and said she had submitted the issue via the Birmingham 311 portal.

The speakers asked the council and administration to install no-parking signs, add low barriers or posts to protect single-family lots and driveways, and ensure police enforcement on event nights. Council President Wardeen Alexander thanked them, said administration would receive the addresses and follow up, and noted a team member from administration was available to speak with them as they exited the chamber.

Why it matters: Repeated blockage of fire hydrants and narrow streets that impede emergency access pose immediate public-safety concerns for residents and require enforcement and physical solutions that involve multiple city departments, including police and public works.

Quote: “Any emergency vehicle cannot come down our street,” Elizabeth Bevel said. The council committed to referring their evidence and addresses to administration for follow-up.

Provenance: Public-comment statements and the council’s response are recorded in the speakers-list and public-comment portion of the April 14 meeting.