Residents of Forsyth Park oppose zoning change for controversial commercial development

Savannah City Council faced significant community pushback during its December 19, 2024 meeting regarding a proposed zoning change for a development project at 1,000 and 1,015 Whitaker Street. Residents expressed strong opposition to the request by Seacrest 7 and Portfolio Holdings to rezone the area from Traditional Neighborhood 1 (TN1) to Traditional Commercial 2 (TC2).

The proposed development includes two buildings that exceed the TC2 zoning limitations, with one structure reaching 58 feet and five stories, far surpassing the maximum height of 45 feet allowed. Local residents, including townhouse owners from the nearby residences on Forsyth, voiced concerns that the scale and design of the buildings would disrupt the historic character of the Victorian neighborhood and lead to increased traffic, noise, and potential flooding issues.

Elaine Pullen, president of the homeowners association, highlighted that the existing buildings do not pose significant stress on local infrastructure, unlike the proposed development, which could overwhelm the area with heavy construction traffic and long-term operational impacts. Other residents echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for community involvement in the planning process to ensure that any development aligns with the neighborhood's character and preserves its historical integrity.

Dylan Williams, a resident whose property is closest to the proposed site, urged the council to consider the implications of the zoning change carefully. He pointed out that the current TN1 designation could accommodate non-residential uses compatible with the neighborhood, suggesting that the developers were seeking TC2 zoning primarily to build larger structures with fewer restrictions.

Monica Vernon, another local resident, expressed her desire for responsible development that respects community concerns. She noted that while some residents initially felt unheard, ongoing discussions with city officials and developers have opened avenues for collaboration to address safety and community character.

The council's decision on the zoning change remains pending, with residents advocating for a thorough review of the proposed plans before any alterations to the zoning map are made. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the future development landscape of Savannah's historic neighborhoods, highlighting the ongoing tension between growth and preservation in urban planning.