BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Mar. 5, 2026) — The U.S. Coast Guard has selected the former Birmingham-Southern College campus as the site of a new national training center, a project expected to bring approximately 1,000 jobs and significant economic investment to the Birmingham region.
The announcement was confirmed by U.S. Senator Katie Britt’s office, marking a major milestone for the 192-acre campus located on Birmingham’s west side. The property became vacant after the private liberal arts college closed in May 2024 following financial challenges that ended more than a century of academic operations.
Federal officials say the site stood out during a nationwide search for a new facility to support the Coast Guard’s expanding workforce and training needs.
“Today’s announcement shows that this is one of the most exciting times to join the Coast Guard in its 235-year history,” said U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. “With recruitment exceeding expectations and plans to add 15,000 new members by 2028, the Coast Guard must invest in facilities capable of preparing the next generation of service members. Alabama will now play a key role in that mission.”
Strategic Investment in Workforce Training
The new training center will support the Coast Guard’s long-term modernization strategy, Force Design 2028, which focuses on expanding personnel and strengthening readiness to address evolving maritime security challenges.
“We must invest in our most valuable resource — our people,” said Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. “The acquisition of the historic Birmingham-Southern campus will provide the infrastructure needed to train and develop Coast Guard personnel as the service continues to grow.”
The campus, originally established more than 100 years ago, offers existing facilities and space capable of supporting large-scale training operations.
Revitalizing a Historic Birmingham Campus
The announcement represents a new chapter for the Birmingham-Southern property, which had remained vacant since the college closed in 2024.
“While we will always grieve the closing of our beloved college, we believe the sale of our campus to the Coast Guard for this purpose is a tremendous outcome for our city and state,” said Rev. Keith D. Thompson, Chair of the Birmingham-Southern College Board of Trustees. “Supporting the training and development of those who protect our nation is a meaningful continuation of the campus’ legacy.”
Local leaders say the project will serve as a catalyst for economic growth across Birmingham’s west side neighborhoods.
“This investment delivers real, lasting economic impact to our city,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. “The Coast Guard’s decision to locate here will bring jobs, new opportunities, and long-term economic growth to Birmingham and the surrounding community.”
State and Federal Leaders Praise the Project
The project has drawn widespread support from federal, state and local leaders who see the investment as a major win for Alabama’s military and economic development footprint.
“This is a huge day for Birmingham and for Alabama,” said Senator Katie Britt, who advocated for the project. “This new training center strengthens our state’s role in supporting our nation’s armed forces while preparing the next generation of Coast Guard members.”
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey also welcomed the decision, emphasizing the state’s long tradition of supporting military installations.
“Alabama always stands ready to support our nation’s armed forces,” Ivey said. “We are proud this historic campus will continue shaping future leaders and serving our country.”
Lawmakers also highlighted the economic benefits the project could bring to surrounding neighborhoods.
“This decision breathes new life into a campus that has served as a cultural and economic anchor for more than a century,” said U.S. Representative Terri Sewell. “It will create jobs, stimulate investment and strengthen the local economy.”
Strengthening Alabama’s Military Presence
Alabama is already home to multiple major military installations and training facilities across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Officials say the Coast Guard’s decision further strengthens the state’s strategic role in national defense.
“Alabama and the Coast Guard are a natural partnership,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “Our state has the infrastructure, workforce and resources needed to support this mission and ensure the Coast Guard continues to operate at the highest level.”
With the selection of the Birmingham-Southern campus finalized, planning and development of the training facility are expected to move forward as part of the Coast Guard’s long-term expansion strategy.
