Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Samford cancels Creekside development to focus on campus projects
Reading time: 3 minutes
Today, the team behind Samford’s proposed Creekside development withdrew the rezoning applications and plans pending before the Homewood City Council, opting instead to focus its efforts on construction on Samford’s campus.
Samford withdraws Creekside Development Plan
Earlier this year, Samford University announced plans for Creekside: a proposed development designed to be a walkable and livable “town square” for Homewood residents. The public-private partnership between Samford University, Landmark Development and Johnson Controls proposed leveraging private investments to support four important factors in Homewood:
- Generating new tax revenues to fund improvements to Homewood City Schools and position Samford University to compete in the changing world of higher education.
- Building civic assets to benefit the Homewood community.
- Creating new benchmarks for environmental stewardship, education and improved access to the Shades Creek Greenway.
- Leveraging nearly $1 billion in private investments to support Homewood’s tax base and generate new tax revenues for city services.
“City leaders we spoke with encouraged us to bring them a comprehensive mixed-use plan that included retail, entertainment and dining, office space, a boutique hotel, and community gathering spaces.
By providing a broader, long-term vision – which is a best practice in land use planning today –it is possible to achieve outcomes that can’t be realized on a typical, building-by-building incremental approach to real estate development.”
Bob Dunn, President, Landmark Development
According to a Samford University press release, the team behind the proposal has withdrawn its application in front of the Homewood City Council, opting instead to focus on projects within the campus.
“Samford will continue to focus on its multi-phase master development plan for campus improvements to enhance campus lifestyle and promote an environment for academic and personal success which are essential to keeping Samford mission-focused and competitive.
The work we do to keep Samford on its positive trajectory benefits all of Homewood, and we are proud of our relationship with the Homewood community.”
Dr. Beck A. Taylor, President, Samford University
Currently, there is no timetable to revisit the Creekside development in the future.
“I appreciate Landmark and Samford withdrawing their request for Creekside at this time. The community members listened to the plans, engaged in hours of meetings and discussions, and shared their opinions.
Projects of this scope need community support, and we appreciate all who reached out to the Council and the Mayor’s office. Let’s keep the lines of communication open, always!”
Jennifer Andress, Homewood City Council, Planning & Development Chair
What do you think about Samford withdrawing its Creekside Development Plan? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
