Red Mountain Park (see more photos)
As the largest landowner in Jefferson County, US Steel owns considerable property along our area's most sensitive rivers and streams. As one of Alabama's largest developers, they also seem an unlikely partner for any environmental group. But as Tom Howard of USS Real Estate learned, the Land Trust is tenacious when it comes to protecting land and the interests of property owners.
Tom Howard / General Manager, Southeast Region, USS Real Estate
"The approach of the Land Trust is refreshing. Very business-like. Very positive. In every dealing we've had with them, they were, well I hate to say stubborn, but they won't take no for an answer. They persistently look for a way to ensure that everyone involved in a deal gets fair value. That's not easy. In most deals there are a number of competing self-interests, but the Land Trust provides that one common thread that everyone can trust. Ultimately it's that trust that makes closing the deal possible.
I've been impressed since the first day I met with them and my respect has only grown deeper. Because they are so good at what they do, they've managed to protect more environmentally sensitive land than anyone would have thought possible; because of the Land Trust, our community has considerably more open spaces and greenways, which makes living in Birmingham more attractive."