News Summary
The Savannah City Council narrowly approved a controversial apartment complex in Highlands Park, despite local opposition regarding traffic and infrastructure. Mayor Johnson previously vetoed a similar proposal, emphasizing community concerns. Developer Gary Wiggins argues the need for more housing options. As residents express fears about population density affecting safety and congestion, the future of infrastructure projects tied to the development hinges on an upcoming funding vote.
Savannah – The Savannah City Council has approved a controversial proposal to build a major apartment complex in the Highlands Park area after a vote on August 15, 2025, where changes to the original Planned Urban Development (PUD) were narrowly passed with a 5-4 vote. The original proposal, submitted by developer Gary Wiggins in 2014, has faced significant local opposition, particularly regarding existing traffic issues.
Mayor Van Johnson had previously vetoed a unanimous decision by the Council to approve the complex, citing concerns over misrepresentations regarding resident opinions and the strong opposition from the community primarily driven by traffic congestions. Johnson has yet to announce his decision on whether to veto the latest Council vote.
During the recent hearing, numerous residents voiced their concerns about the development. Many reported experiencing long delays of 30 to 45 minutes when trying to exit their neighborhoods, primarily due to heavy traffic on Highlands Blvd. and Benton Blvd. The Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) had previously voted against Wiggins’ proposal, highlighting inadequate facilities to support the proposed apartment complex, indicating significant infrastructure deficiencies in the area.
Wiggins defended his proposal, stating that he struggled to develop the property solely for commercial purposes due to existing restrictions, forcing a shift to multi-family housing. He had previously traded 20 acres of his land to the city for park space and infrastructure improvements, but funding for those projects has yet to be allocated. As part of his commitment, Wiggins is planning to fund at least a five-acre park and intends to integrate retail space within the complex to help local residents reduce their reliance on nearby Pooler.
Local residents have raised several issues regarding how increased population density might negatively affect their communities, specifically concerning children’s safety, traffic congestion, and the insufficiency of schools and parks in the area. Several community members expressed frustration about the current state of infrastructure, which they feel is already overwhelmed.
Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier acknowledged the infrastructure challenges facing the area but expressed support for Wiggins’ proposal, emphasizing the community’s need for more retail options. Meanwhile, Mayor Johnson articulated apprehension about the unresolved issues of traffic, infrastructure, and the potential overcrowding of schools should the apartment complex be approved. He urged a cautious approach towards any plans that would add population density to the area.
The next steps related to improving local road infrastructure hinge on a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funding vote scheduled for November. If funding is not approved, the future of such infrastructure projects remains uncertain. Johnson indicated his intent to seriously consider another veto if the new development moves forward without a clear plan for addressing traffic and infrastructure concerns.
Alderwoman Carol Bell highlighted the ongoing housing crisis facing Savannah, expressing her belief that the SPLOST will pass and supporting the proposal to expand housing options. In contrast, Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan opposed the plan, focusing on the importance of protecting the quality of life for existing residents and community integrity.
The contentious debate over the proposed complex in the Highlands Park area reflects a broader tension between development needs and community integrity, as Savannah grapples with urban growth while trying to maintain the quality of life for its residents.
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Savannah Apartment Complex Fire
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- WTOC: Fire Sparks GoFundMe
- Google Search: Savannah Apartment Fire
- WSAV: Living Conditions in Savannah Apartment
- Google Scholar: Savannah Housing Development
- Savannah Now: Fire Displaces Residents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Apartment
- CoStar: Apartment Project in Savannah
- Google News: Savannah Apartment Complex Development
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
