News Summary
The Homewood City Council has unanimously approved the development of the Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center at the former Brookwood Village mall site. The center will occupy around 131,000 square feet and aims to revitalize the area, which has faced significant challenges due to business closures. While there is no set timeline for the project, council members are optimistic that it will stimulate further redevelopment in the region, although some residents are calling for a more comprehensive development strategy.
Homewood — The Homewood City Council has given the green light for the development of a new Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center at the site of the former Brookwood Village mall. The decision was reached unanimously during a recent council meeting, signaling a renewed effort to revitalize the area that has remained largely dormant since many of its businesses closed.
The center is set to occupy the space previously held by the Belk department store and will encompass approximately 131,000 square feet. Currently, there is no official timeline for when renovations will begin or when the center is expected to open its doors to the public.
Brookwood Village has faced significant challenges over the past five years, with numerous stores and restaurants shuttering their doors. The mall, which first opened in 1974 as a major retail hub in Birmingham, has struggled to maintain its relevance in the evolving shopping landscape.
Historical Context of Brookwood Village
Brookwood Village became a popular destination for shoppers, notably housing Alabama’s first Chick-fil-A. The center was once anchored by well-known retailers such as Pizitz and Rich’s. Over the years, the mall underwent multiple renovations, with significant updates in the 1980s, 1991, and again in 2001. These renovations included the addition of streetscapes and external-facing store fronts, along with a range of local dining options.
Future Implications of the Development
Council members have expressed optimism that the establishment of a prominent tenant like Andrews Sports Medicine could stimulate a wave of further redevelopment in the vicinity. The involvement of the health center may serve as a catalyst for other businesses seeking to establish themselves in the area. Councilwoman Jennifer Andress has emphasized the significance of Brookwood Village for Homewood and its neighboring communities, highlighting the pressing need for revitalization.
Several council members note that the presence of a reputable healthcare facility such as Andrews Sports Medicine is likely to attract a strong client base, which in turn may spur additional business growth in the region. Councilman Carlos Aleman invoked the phrase “Field of Dreams,” implying that creating a well-known anchor is essential to encouraging future development opportunities.
Despite some enthusiasm surrounding the project, there are concerns among certain residents regarding the adequacy and scope of the development plan. Community member Jeremy Love has urged city officials to adopt a more comprehensive approach to the redevelopment of Brookwood Village, advocating for a detailed strategy that encompasses diverse business offerings.
Next Steps and Additional Developments
Alongside the Andrews Sports Medicine development, the Homewood City Council has scheduled a public hearing for June 9 to discuss another potential project: the proposed Creekside development by Samford University. This additional hearing indicates ongoing efforts by the city to explore a variety of development opportunities that could positively impact the local economy and urban landscape.
As the plans for the Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center progress, city officials remain hopeful that revitalizing Brookwood Village will pave the way for further enhancements to the area’s economy and community engagement.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Homewood and Mountain Brook Collaborate on Brookwood Village Revitalization
Exciting Changes on the Horizon for Homewood as Brookwood Village Gets a Makeover!
Homewood’s Brookwood Village to Transform into State-of-the-Art Medical Facility with Andrews Sports Medicine Center
Exciting Transformation Ahead as Homewood Plans New Medical Facility at Former Belk Building
Exciting Developments in Homewood: Brookwood Village Poised for Major Renovation
Homewood Plans Medical Facility to Revitalize Brookwood Village
Homewood Planning Commission to Discuss Redevelopment of Brookwood Village with New Sports Medicine Center Proposal
Additional Resources
- WBRC News
- Wikipedia: Brookwood Village
- WVTM 13 News
- Google Search: Andrews Sports Medicine
- Bham Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Homewood
- AL.com News
- Google News: Brookwood Village
- Homewood Star
