New demolition pushes Star Uptown construction back to 2025
The rundown brick building is of the final reminders of the former Carraway Hospital.
Its blue star could once be seen from miles away.
Janet Maycock moved to Druid Hills 13 years ago, long after the historic medical center shut its doors.
鈥淚t was with all the broken glass and just not a good thing to pass by. So to see this development has been really exciting for me and for and for the community,鈥� Maycock said.
In 2022, crews began tearing down most of the hospital to clear the way for the future $340 million Star Uptown project.
The star-topped tower was one of three buildings to be renovated.
However, this week developer Corporate Realty confirmed it is more cost-effective to knock it down and start from scratch.
Maycock says the community had hoped the demolition would done by now.
鈥淲e did not anticipate it kind of going on as long as it has. And the fact that it's going to continue even longer than we had anticipated,鈥� Maycock said.
Meanwhile across the street, work is in full swing to build the BJCC's new $50 million amphitheater.
Concrete for the venue's bowl is now in place.
Maycock looks forward to it complementing its star-themed next-door neighbor.
鈥淚 do strongly believe that the people who are behind the project are working diligently and doing what they can to keep this project moving and going,鈥� she said.
The Star Uptown's construction will have to wait until the demolition phase is finished, which could now last well into 2025.
Birmingham has pitched in nearly $8 million to help Corporate Realty pay for tearing down the old hospital campus.