MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Mayor Steven L. Reed highlighted continued momentum across public safety, emergency response, infrastructure investment, housing affordability, and downtown development during his February media availability, pointing to data-driven progress and coordinated action citywide.
Public Safety Trends Moving in the Right Direction
Over the last two years crime comparisons show significant reductions:
- Homicides decreased approximately 78%
- Nonfatal shootings declined nearly 40%
- Violent crime fell by about 57%
- Nonviolent Part I crimes dropped roughly 56%
“The trend is moving in the right direction,” said Mayor Steven L. Reed. “We’re building sustained momentum for a safer Montgomery—one powered by prevention, partnership, and accountability.”
Storm Response Highlights Coordinated City Action
City departments responded swiftly to recent severe weather and freezing temperatures. The Emergency Management Agency kept warming centers open for multiple nights to protect vulnerable residents, while Public Works responded to more than 100 calls related to downed trees and blocked roads—reducing that number to just a dozen within 12 hours.
worked through freezing conditions to clear debris, restoring collection schedules. The City is also waiving normal charges and allowing unlimited storm debris placement at the curb for at least the next week.
Montgomery Fire/Rescue also responded to a large grass fire on Congressman L. Dickerson Drive that escalated due to high winds. While three structures were destroyed, no injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.
National Advocacy and Infrastructure Investment
Mayor Reed recently participated in the U.S. Conference of Mayors Local Infrastructure Hub, where he discussed infrastructure execution, grant compliance, and federal funding strategies.
In 2025 alone, Montgomery secured approximately $50 million in grants, including funding for electric buses, clean transit workforce development, and HUD PRO Housing initiatives. The City continues to advocate for restoration of the previously rescinded $36.6 million Neighborhood Access and Equity grant.
“These national conversations are strategic,” Reed said. “They connect Montgomery to decision-makers, strengthen relationships, and help us compete for the resources our residents deserve.”
Downtown Vision: Convention Center and Professional Soccer
The City recently acquired 425 and 475 Molton Street for $5.5 million, securing key downtown property to support future redevelopment and advance a long-term convention center vision. Marketing and impact studies for a new convention center and riverfront activation are nearing completion.
See attached artist concepts of what the new convention center might look like.
The City is also exploring professional soccer opportunities after productive discussions with the United Soccer League, viewing sports-led development as a catalyst for downtown vitality, family-friendly entertainment, and visitor-driven revenue.
Housing Affordability and Quality of Life
Montgomery was recently ranked the most affordable city in America for home buyers by WalletHub, underscoring the City’s commitment to inclusive growth.
“Affordability matters,” Reed said. “It means teachers, first responders, and young professionals can put down roots and build a future right here in Montgomery.”
Black History Month and Civic Engagement
As Black History Month begins, Mayor Reed encouraged residents and visitors to engage with Montgomery’s historic sites, including The Legacy Museum, the Rosa Parks Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, and other landmarks that tell the city’s civil rights story.
“In Montgomery, Black history is not just a month—it’s part of who we are,” Reed said. “Our progress is powered by memory, and that memory is alive here.”
Upcoming Events
The City invites residents to attend the
2026 State of the City Address on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Vaughn Forest Church, with doors opening at 5 p.m. The theme of this year’s address is Momentum. Residents are also encouraged to attend the upcoming Neighborhood Services Banquet celebrating neighborhood leadership and community partnerships.
More information is available at
MGMWins.com.
