Homewood City Council opened a public hearing Nov. 24 on an amended development plan to renovate and expand the existing Piggly Wiggly grocery store at 3000 Independence Drive.

Architect Robert Thompson and engineer Josh Donnell presented the plan, saying the project adds building area along Oxmoor Road and Highway 31 and updates the store’s appearance facing both streets. They said, at ALDOT’s request, the north-first entrance closest to the Oxmoor/Highway 31 intersection would close and vehicle access would be consolidated through a second entrance, with the primary customer entrance moved to the south side of the building. Additional parking is proposed between the CVS and Piggly Wiggly, plus some parking at the rear of the property.

No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition during the hearing. Council members expressed support for maintaining the Piggly Wiggly in a renovated form and noted the project has been in process for some time. The council will consider and vote on the ordinance at its Dec. 8 meeting.

If approved, staff said the amended final development plan attached to the ordinance would control the uses and restrictions for the parcel and the ordinance would become effective immediately upon passage and mayoral approval.