Planning Commission discussed a recommendation to approve Samford University's proposed student housing project on the south side of Lakeshore Drive by their track. The discussion focused on stormwater, Shades Creek, traffic, lighting, tree preservation and student safety, with Samford saying the project is not "Creekside 2.0" and has nothing to do with that. The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval, with the final decision now moving to the City Council.
The commission also voted 7-0 to recommend approval of The Woods Golf & Social, a proposed 18-hole outdoor putting course and entertainment venue planned for West Homewood. The developers said they intend to comply with the city's noise ordinance, include underground stormwater detention, add new landscaping, and offer affordable pricing and memberships. The proposal now advances to the City Council.
Agenda:
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Samford Student Housing Development; The Planning Commission reviewed Samford University's proposal for two new student housing buildings on the south side of campus near the existing track and field complex. University officials said the project is intended to provide more on-campus housing, not expand the campus, and includes plans for stormwater improvements, shuttle service, limited tree removal, dark-sky lighting, and buildings that would not be designed for future vertical expansion. Residents raised questions about environmental impacts, stormwater runoff, tree preservation, traffic, salamander habitat, lighting, bird-safe glass, parking, and long-term ownership. Samford officials said the buildings would remain dedicated to student housing through a ground lease arrangement, would comply with city stormwater standards, and would continue discussions about a future pedestrian bridge across Lakeshore Drive, that would be accessible to the public. The Planning Commission recommended approval with a maximum building height of 715 feet above sea level and noted a new survey would return for future review. The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval, with the final decision now moving to the City Council.
The Woods Golf and Social; The Planning Commission reviewed plans for an outdoor 18-hole putting course, clubhouse, covered patio, bar, event lawn, and parking on Scott Street in West Homewood, right across from the Homewood Animal Clinic. The developers said the project is designed to complement the West Homewood district by creating a walkable entertainment destination with leagues, birthday parties, corporate events, and family activities while complying with the area's form-based code. The applicant said quiet-hour requirements would be followed after 10pm, stormwater detention and landscaping would meet city standards, memberships and affordable pricing are planned for local families, and additional right-of-way dedication and lot consolidation will come back for future review. The proposal now advances to the City Council.
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