Hollywood Blvd. in Homewood guides Birmingham residents out of pollution zone
Hollywood Boulevard, a charming street in Homewood, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1926. This iconic street, measuring only two-thirds of a mile in length, is situated east of Independence Drive (U.S. Hwy 31) and meanders through the upscale Hollywood Neighborhood before connecting with Mountain Brook.
But what sets Hollywood Boulevard apart and makes it an intriguing subject of discussion is how it got its name. The origin of the street’s name is attributed to founder Clyde Nelson, who drew inspiration from his visit to California. Witnessing the remarkable Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of homes in California, Nelson decided to adopt a similar design for the new Hollywood development. This unique architectural style, along with the name Hollywood, helped establish the neighborhood’s identity.
Back in 1926, when the Hollywood subdivision was being advertised, a catchy tagline in the Shades Cahaba Elementary School’s yearbook caught the attention of Birmingham residents – “Out of the Smoke zone and into the Ozone.” For those living in the city surrounded by industrial smoke and pollution from steel mills and smokestacks, the promise of cleaner air and a healthier environment in Hollywood was certainly appealing.
The Hollywood development, named after the glitzy neighborhood in California, was strategically located to provide residents with a breath of fresh air away from the industrial pollution of Birmingham. To facilitate transportation for new residents, founder Clyde Nelson went the extra mile by offering a free 40-seat bus service from Hollywood to downtown Birmingham, ensuring a convenient commute for residents.
Despite facing challenges during the Great Depression, the Hollywood development persevered and was eventually annexed into Homewood in October 1929. Today, Hollywood Boulevard is renowned for its picturesque Spanish-style homes that line the street, showcasing the legacy of its architectural origins. Additionally, the boulevard serves as a crucial link connecting Homewood to Hwy 280 and Mountain Brook, fostering community integration and ease of access.
The efforts to enhance Hollywood Boulevard and make it more pedestrian- and bike-friendly have been a longstanding endeavor championed by individuals like Homewood Mayor-elect Jennifer Andress. With a vision for revitalizing the Hollywood Boulevard bridge and creating a welcoming gateway into Homewood, Mayor-elect Andress has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives to improve the infrastructure and aesthetics of the neighborhood.
As the community rallies behind projects to revitalize Hollywood Boulevard, the spirit of cooperation and collaboration among various stakeholders from local governments, municipalities, and the community is evident. The transformation of Hollywood Boulevard represents a testament to the enduring legacy of this historic street and its significance in shaping the identity of the Homewood community.