Homewood City officials notify council of emergency creek-wall failure at 709–711 Broadway; repair estimate $110,000

Councilor Smith told the Finance Committee on April 7 that a retaining wall behind two homes at 709 and 711 Broadway was pushed outward during a recent storm and partly collapsed toward an adjacent creek.

The committee learned the failure did not drop the wall into the creek but pushed yard material toward the water and caused damage to the two properties’ backyards and a leaning utility pole. Councilor Smith said Alabama Power temporarily shoredup the pole and staff will present an emergency repair contract to the City Council on Monday. A contractor who inspected the site gave an initial cost estimate of about $110,000.

The update served as notice to the committee rather than a request for immediate action. Committee members asked whether nearby structures — including a swimming pool adjacent to the failed wall — sustained damage and were told the pool was not damaged. Members discussed policy precedent for repairing water-side walls and whether homeowners should bear the cost of repairs when erosion affects private structures. One member noted that some communities place responsibility on waterfront property owners; others treat repairs as a city obligation when public safety or parkland are at risk.

Smith said staff will bring firm contract documents and estimates to the City Council meeting Monday so elected officials can consider an emergency appropriation or contract award. Committee members asked staff to provide photos and any additional information before that meeting.