West Homewood: New mixed-use entertainment hub approved at 504 Scott St

The Homewood City Council granted final zoning approval on Oct. 26 for The Woods, a new entertainment and dining center slated for construction on an acre of land at 504 Scott St.

The site is located between Oxmoor Boulevard and Oxmoor Street. Developers plan to demolish two existing structures and replace them with a mixed-use facility. The design centers on an 18-hole putting green. A new 2,783-square-foot building will house a full-service bar and grill. An outdoor open turf field will include a large-screen TV wall for social gatherings and private events.

The project began as a concept among three Homewood natives: Owen Ferguson, Jack Dorough, and Tommy Donaldson. Riley Meeks, also a Homewood native, has since joined the partnership. Lee Pantazis, a resident of Vestavia Hills, is the fifth partner. Dorough, who has worked for Pratt Industries in Nashville for three and a half years, described the formation of the group as a gradual process. He noted that initial conversations evolved into frequent phone calls and video meetings. The partners aim to build a business that serves the specific area where Dorough grew up.

Ferguson, 30, previously worked as a property broker with Amwins for seven years. He left the firm to pursue the development full-time. He stated that his former employer understood his decision and expressed interest in hosting corporate events at the new venue. Ferguson met his wife, Leah, at Birmingham-Southern College, where he played basketball for one year. The couple now lives on Saulter Road in Homewood and has an infant daughter. Ferguson grew up in the city and played basketball for the Homewood Patriots. He described returning to the community as a long-held personal goal.

The developers intend to use the space for a variety of activities beyond golf. Ferguson said the venue will host birthday parties, corporate events, fundraising nights, and spirit nights. The team plans to organize tournaments and leagues for all ages. Additional entertainment options will include live music, trivia, game nights, and vendor markets. The goal is to create a destination for non-sporting events as well as athletic competition.

Ferguson addressed community concerns regarding noise and parking. He said the business will adhere to the city's noise ordinance. He wants to maintain direct communication with nearby residents. He said he wants neighbors to feel comfortable contacting him if the volume becomes an issue. He also acknowledged that parking in the area has historically been difficult. He noted that a new public parking lot at the former Waffle House site is nearby. The Woods will provide 22 parking spaces. Ferguson said the proximity of the public lot and the walkability of the area were key factors in the decision to develop the property.

The new development will sit among established local businesses. Adjacent properties include a Public Storage self-storage facility, American Flag Co., The Pennington Group, Oxmoor Automotive, and Homewood Animal Hospital. Ferguson said he has been actively meeting with these business owners and local residents. He wants to integrate the new venture into the existing community fabric. He described the goal as becoming a part of the West Homewood neighborhood rather than displacing current establishments.

The approval marks the final step in the zoning process for The Woods. Construction is expected to follow the demolition of the two existing buildings on the property. The developers aim to open the facility as a hub for local entertainment and dining in the western part of the city.