Development News for Savannah, Georgia

Housing Toolkit Amendments Aim to Increase Density and Affordability in Key Corridors

The council received an update on the housing toolkit action items and proposed text amendments, focusing on expanding housing opportunities and densification in nodes and corridors. These amendments align with the city's strategic plan (Savannah GPS) and aim to encourage redevelopment and the creation of needed housing and amenities, particularly near transit hubs. The proposals include modifications to zoning districts (O, I, B) to promote coherent development, with buildings closer to streets and parking located behind them to encourage walkability. Next steps involve review by the Metropolitan Planning Commission, followed by council consideration, with outreach to organizations like the Chatham County Housing Coalition and the Home Builders Association. Efforts are also underway for ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) prototyping and exploring financing options.

Parking Matters Study Update: Expanded Restrictions and Stakeholder Engagement

Staff provided an update on the Parking Matters study, which aims to expand parking restrictions and policies to protect residential parking in the urban core. The study has involved community engagement and discussions with stakeholders, including institutions like St. Vincent's Academy and local churches. Key issues addressed include accommodating student parking needs, managing unrestricted parking spaces that impact residents, and the ongoing advocacy for single-laning certain thoroughfares like Drayton and Whitaker Streets to incorporate bike lanes and pedestrian paths. The city plans to present an ordinance for expanded parking restrictions by August 1st, with ongoing discussions about traffic patterns, public transportation incentives, and specific issues like SCAD student parking and construction site impacts.

River Street Vision Plan Presented for Adoption, Enhancing Waterfront Connectivity and Accessibility

The council heard a presentation on the River Street Vision Plan, developed by the Savannah Waterfront Community Improvement District (CID) and gifted to the city. This plan aims to improve pedestrian connectivity and manage movement around the waterfront. It aligns with the city's strategic plan (Savannah GPS) and Savannah Moves plan, focusing on ADA accessibility and multimodal infrastructure. Key next steps include the adoption of the vision plan and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the city and CID. The CID will lead initial projects like lighting, ironwork, and refuse enclosures, while the city focuses on design services for a multimodal path and subsurface utility engineering. The plan emphasizes creating a world-class, livable environment that is accessible to all, including those with mobility challenges.

Forsyth Park Master Plan Discussion Highlights Need for Continued Community Engagement

The council discussed the Forsyth Park Master Plan, a long-term vision developed with community feedback and professional recommendations, focusing on preservation and quality of life. While the city has been using it as a guideline for completed projects like basketball court renovations and fountain restoration, formal adoption by the council has not yet occurred. Staff presented ongoing and future projects aligned with the plan, such as tennis court renovation and splash pad repairs. A key discussion point was the need for further community engagement and potential revisions before formal adoption, particularly concerning resident and visitor input on park improvements and accessibility features.