Savannah residents rally against proposed zoning change for Forsyth Park development

Savannah City Council faced significant community pushback during its December 19, 2024, meeting regarding a proposed zoning change for properties at 1,000 and 1,015 Whitaker Street, as well as 120 and 124 Park Avenue. The developers, Seacrest 7 and Portfolio Holdings, sought to rezone the area from Traditional Neighborhood 1 (TN1) to Traditional Commercial 2 (TC2), which would allow for larger buildings that exceed current zoning limitations.

Residents voiced strong opposition, highlighting that the proposed buildings would violate TC2 regulations, which limit building height to 45 feet and footprint to 10,000 square feet. The developers' plans included a 58-foot, five-story building with an 18,640 square foot footprint, significantly larger than existing structures in the historic Victorian neighborhood surrounding Forsyth Park. Community members expressed concerns about the potential disruption to the residential character of the area, increased traffic, and safety hazards during construction.

Elaine Pullen, president of the local homeowners association, emphasized that the proposed development would not only overwhelm the neighborhood with tourists and traffic but also pose risks to infrastructure and property values. Other residents echoed her sentiments, arguing that the current zoning was designed to protect the community's character and should not be altered without thorough consideration of its implications.

Dylan Williams, a nearby property owner, urged the council to reconsider the zoning change, suggesting that the area should remain under TN1 designation to maintain its residential integrity. He pointed out that the proposed TC2 designation would allow for larger buildings with fewer restrictions, which could lead to further developments that do not align with the neighborhood's character.

Monica Vernon, another resident, shared her journey of gathering community support against the zoning change, stating that many residents felt unheard during the planning process. She expressed cautious support for the zoning change if it included conditions to protect the community's safety and character.

The council's decision on the zoning change remains pending, with residents advocating for a more inclusive process that allows for community input and ensures that any development aligns with the historical and cultural values of the neighborhood. The outcome of this meeting could have lasting implications for the future of the Forsyth Park area and its surrounding communities.