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Savannah Riverfront Transformation Underway

An artistic perspective of the revitalized Savannah riverfront.

News Summary

Savannah’s riverfront is set for a $60 million improvement plan aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility, and visual appeal for both residents and tourists. The plan includes up to 50 potential upgrades based on community feedback. Upcoming events like ‘Wine & Waterfront’ will foster engagement as the city looks to revitalize River Street, making it a more attractive destination. Funding will primarily come from hotel-motel taxes with hopes of drawing inspiration from successful urban renewal projects in other cities.

Savannah

Savannah’s riverfront is set to undergo a significant transformation with a $60 million improvement plan by the Savannah Downtown Business Association (SDBA). This initiative aims to enhance local experiences on the waterfront, with a detailed plan featuring up to 50 potential improvements and a strong focus on safety, accessibility, and visual appeal for both residents and visitors.

Upcoming Event: “Wine & Waterfront”

The SDBA will host an event titled “Wine & Waterfront” on June 12, 2025, at 208 Wine Bar. This event will run from 4 to 5 p.m. and will be led by Julie Musselman, Executive Director of Savannah’s Waterfront. Those interested in attending must register by June 10, with admission set at $25 for SDBA members and $35 for non-members.

Key Improvements Identified

After more than a year of planning, the Savannah Waterfront Community Improvement District (SWCID) has finalized its vision for revitalizing River Street. Planned enhancements stemmed from feedback gathered from local businesses and residents. Key improvements include:

Improved lighting and visibility along the waterfront.
Better signage to assist in navigation.
Upgrades to Factors Walk, promoting the area as a more prominent pedestrian experience.
Installation of safety cameras to enhance security.

The SWCID has already implemented safety measures by introducing three Flock security cameras in collaboration with the Savannah Police Department. This initial step marks the beginning of larger improvement projects that will focus on creating green spaces and enhancing overall public safety.

Long-term Vision and Planning

The comprehensive plan, developed with the assistance of the Savannah-based design firm Sottile & Sottile, outlines nearly 50 potential improvements across various sections of the waterfront. Proposed initiatives include:

Connecting currently disjointed areas of the riverwalk.
The construction of a bridge in one location for better access.
Transformation of underperforming parking lots into multi-use plazas and parks.
An enhanced entrance to Factors Walk, with aspirations to develop it as an art gallery walk.
Enclosing trash receptacles for improved aesthetic integrity.

Special emphasis will be placed on illuminating historic structures along River Street, ensuring better visibility and enhancing the overall ambiance of the area.

Funding and Economic Impact

The $60 million plan is expected to be financed primarily through hotel-motel taxes generated by waterfront hotel owners. Savannah’s city officials anticipate that the improvements will revitalize the waterfront by making it more accessible and appealing to both locals and tourists, drawing inspiration from successful urban renewal projects implemented in other American cities like Midtown Atlanta.

Conclusion

As Savannah prepares for its riverfront revitalization, priorities remain focused on local experiences. The combination of improved project safety, better public spaces, and enhanced accessibility reflects the city’s aspirations to serve and cater to the needs of its residents and visitors alike. Major project solicitations for future work are anticipated to commence within the year, paving the way for a rejuvenated waterfront experience over the next five years.