Jefferson County Mayors Gather to Support Magic City Classic Final Contract Year

Mayors from across Jefferson County gathered in Birmingham on Thursday to discuss the ongoing economic and cultural impact of the Magic City Classic.

The annual event brings visitors from across the country to the city, extending its reach beyond the central business district to surrounding municipalities. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin described the Classic as a historic treasure that the city is duty-bound to protect.

Woodfin noted that the event carries an 85 year legacy of tradition. He stated that the city has a sense of urgency to ensure the Classic continues to be a success. This sentiment was shared by local leaders who attended the Birmingham Business Alliance Magic City HBCU Breakfast.

The gathering highlighted the current status of the agreement between the City of Birmingham, Alabama State University, and Alabama A&M University. This year marks the final year of the current contract. The agreement allows for two additional three year extensions, but only through mutual written agreement.

Irondale Mayor James Stewart, a graduate of Tennessee State University, emphasized the regional connection. He stated that what happens in Birmingham affects the entire region. Stewart expressed a desire to support the city's success so that the benefits would spill over into Irondale.

Tarrant Mayor Tracie Threadford spoke to the importance of the Classic during a period of rebuilding for her city. She cited internship opportunities as a key theme of the breakfast, noting the need to prepare for future leadership as well.

Pleasant Grove Mayor Yolanda Lawson pointed to a strong constituency of HBCU graduates in her city. She described the event as an opportunity to celebrate locally, even though the main festivities occur in Birmingham. Clay Mayor Jane Anderton agreed, noting that many HBCU graduates live in Clay neighborhoods and have children in local schools.

Homewood Mayor Jennifer Andress described the event as a driver for jobs, opportunities, and economic development. She emphasized that the county is united in supporting these goals. Andress concluded that a rising tide lifts all boats, and the region is here for all boats to be lifted.

The main events are scheduled for this weekend. A parade in downtown Birmingham is set to begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday. The annual football game between Alabama A&M and Alabama State is scheduled to kick off at 2:30 p.m.

A calendar of the week's events is available through the Magic City Classic Guide produced by The Birmingham Times. Additionally, the City of Birmingham has opened a memorial exhibit on the second floor of City Hall. The display, titled A Classic Tradition: The History, Culture & Legacy of the Magic City Classic, features archival photographs from the 1950s to today. The exhibit will remain on display through the end of the year.