News Summary
Savannah is set to welcome City Council members and the public back to City Hall following a significant interior restoration, the first in over a century. The event, ‘Welcome Home to the Chamber,’ on August 14 will showcase the extensive renovations funded by SPLOST dollars, including a presentation recognizing contributors. The restoration began last year, focusing on preserving historical features while integrating modern technology. The project is viewed as generational work, aiming to enhance Savannah’s iconic building for the next 50 years.
Savannah is set to welcome City Council members and the public back to City Hall later this month following a significant interior restoration. This marks the first time in over a century that regular council meetings will be held at the historic building, which was constructed in 1906.
The city has organized a special event called “Welcome Home to the Chamber,” scheduled for August 14. This event will not only showcase the extensive renovations but also express gratitude to those who contributed to the project. An open house from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. will allow guests to explore the renovations completed in Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project, complemented by an archival display.
At 2 p.m. during the event, city council members will formally acknowledge the project team and contributors with a presentation. Phase one of the restoration, which focused on public spaces, council chambers, and city archives, cost approximately $3 million and was funded by Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) dollars. Phase two is currently underway, focusing on the lobby, staircase, and rotunda renovations, with an estimated cost of $2 million, also funded through SPLOST.
The restoration project began in July of last year and aims to maintain the building’s original architectural features while integrating modern technology in a visually discreet manner. The goal is to preserve the historical essence of City Hall, which is crucial to the identity of Savannah.
Efforts during the restoration included the meticulous task of restoring mahogany floors, brass light fixtures, and preserving original fabric details. However, challenges arose, especially concerning the concealment of cords from modern technology to ensure the building’s aesthetic remains intact.
As renovations progress, modifications to public access have occurred. The original entrance has been closed, directing the public instead to a temporary sub-basement entrance while work continues. The complete restoration project is projected to finish by 2026, aligning with the celebration commemorating the 120th anniversary of City Hall.
City officials regard the renovations as “generational work” that will benefit the Savannah community for the next 50 years. They emphasize the importance of preserving such an iconic building, ensuring that it continues to serve as a functional and accessible space for city governance.
While phases one and two of the restoration are set to complete in July, the timeline for phase three is yet to be established as discussions about funding solutions continue among city leaders. This phase will likely determine the next steps in enhancing City Hall, ensuring its lasting legacy in the heart of Savannah.
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Savannah to Resume City Council Meetings
- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- WTOC: Savannah City Hall Renovations
- Google Search: Savannah City Hall renovation
- Savannah Now: Savannah City Hall Restoration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Savannah
- WJCL: Extensive Renovation Update
- Google News: Savannah City Council renovation
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.
