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Transformative Mixed-Use Development Planned in Savannah

Proposed mixed-use development at 312 E. 38th St. in Savannah.

News Summary

A vacant lot at 312 E. 38th St. is set for a mixed-use development featuring a restaurant and residential units. The rezoning from Traditional Neighborhood-2 to Traditional Commercial-1 was approved by the Planning Board. Despite some community opposition regarding potential commercial expansion impacts, the proposal aims to address the need for housing. A separate mixed-use development proposal is also under discussion. Community concerns persist related to flooding and drainage for larger projects.

Savannah – A vacant parcel located at 312 E. 38th St. in the Thomas Square Neighborhood is set to undergo significant transformation into a mixed-use development. The Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission Planning Board has unanimously voted in favor of recommending the rezoning of the site from Traditional Neighborhood-2 to Traditional Commercial-1. This change paves the way for a larger building footprint, expanding from a maximum of 4,280 square feet to approximately 4,950 square feet.

The proposed mixed-use development will feature a three-story building that includes a ground-floor restaurant and five residential units. It is anticipated that the restaurant will be the second location of Spudnik, a popular dining establishment currently located on West Broughton Street. This project is strategically positioned at the intersection of East 38th Street and Habersham Street, in proximity to other notable restaurants such as Green Truck Neighborhood Pub and Cotton & Rye.

Support for the development has been voiced by the Thomas Square Neighborhood Association and its former president. The development has been described as essential to meeting the city’s growing need for additional housing. However, the site does present unique challenges for construction due to its shape, which is influenced by its abutment to the Seaboard Coastline Railroad. The project’s architect has indicated that the requested rezoning will facilitate a more effective development plan.

On the other hand, opposition to the project has emerged from local resident Virginia Mobley. She has raised concerns about how the increased commercial use could alter the neighborhood’s residential character. Mobley points out that the current zoning changes could pave the way for a range of commercial uses that extend beyond just a restaurant and apartments.

Following the Planning Board’s recommendation, the rezoning petition will now be forwarded to the Savannah City Council for final approval. In a related matter, the Planning Board continued discussions regarding a separate zoning petition for a mixed-use development planned for 1402 Stiles Ave. This project aims to revamp the property currently housing the PNV Food Mart into a shopping center that includes a laundromat, package store, beauty supply shop, and restaurant.

The Carver Village Neighborhood Association has expressed support for this project, highlighting the desire for expanded local business opportunities. However, the proposal has not been without controversy. Concerns have been raised regarding specific uses allowed under the Neighborhood Business designation, particularly the inclusion of a package store and body art services. The Cloverdale Civic Improvement Association has withheld their prior approval for the expansion, citing the absence of the petitioner at their recent meeting.

The Planning Board has recommended enhancing community engagement before proceeding with the second zoning petition, which is scheduled for further discussion at the July 15 meeting.

In addition to these developments, Woodfield Development has recently introduced a new 280-unit apartment community named EmmaJames in Savannah Harbor. This represents the first multifamily property in that mixed-use area. The EmmaJames apartments will feature a variety of layouts including one-, two-, and three-bedroom options, as well as townhomes equipped with high-end finishes and community amenities.

Despite facing construction delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising material costs, leasing has progressed well, with over 74% of the units leased since the process began. The amenities provided at EmmaJames are designed to cater to modern lifestyles, including a self-serve tap lounge, coworking areas, a fitness center, and a pool deck overlooking the marina.

Furthermore, another mixed-use development proposal nearby has obtained site variances to construct four apartment buildings alongside a parking garage at the intersection of East Broad and East Gwinnett Streets. This new project aims to include affordable housing and is designed with an innovative approach that incorporates public spaces, community gardens, and elements of historic preservation.

However, community concerns persist regarding the impacts of larger developments on stormwater drainage and potential flooding in the area. As these projects move forward, the conversation around balancing development with community needs continues to evolve.