Height Concerns Delay Hotel Proposal in Savannah
In the heart of beautiful Savannah, a proposal for a new hotel at 301 Tatnall Street has created quite the buzz! During a recent meeting, the Historic District Board of Review took a moment to reflect on the project, which aims to construct a 5-6 story hotel right next to the Liberty Street Parking Garage and the charming retail space that houses both FraLi Gourmet and Savannah Coffee Roasters.
Neighborhood Compatibility Under Scrutiny
The board decided to continue the conversation around the hotel, primarily to tackle community concerns about its height and how it fits into the surrounding landscape. Ellie Isaacs, the director of preservation at the Historic Savannah Foundation, noted that the design of this building could set a significant precedent, especially with the nearby Civic Center site set for future development. “We recognize that the design of this building will impact and set a precedent for the new construction that will take place across the street,” she mentioned.
Height was indeed a hot topic. HDBR members expressed that a structure of this height might not mesh well with the area, which mainly boasts 2-3 story buildings. For reference, right next to the proposed site is the McCorkle, Johnson & McCoy law office, standing at just 2.5 stories along with a raised basement. Residents gathered, sharing their apprehensions about a colossal structure dominating their beloved neighborhood.
Rethinking Hotel Heights
Although the site is located within an area that permits 5 stories, with a “bonus story” available for projects that achieve certain sustainable standards like LEED certification, the actual discussion leans heavily towards the harmony of the neighborhood. The hotel’s architect, Michael Garcia from LS3P Associates, proposed an adjustment to the hotel’s height—bringing it down from a hefty 76 feet to 71 feet—and hinted at further modifications if necessary.
Board member Stan Houle chimed in, suggesting that a height of 3-4 stories might create a sense of balance with nearby structures. He humorously recounted that when he first saw the hotel’s design, it sent him on a quest for the definition of “behemoth,” reflecting the overall sentiment of the community about the towering hotel proposal.
The Community Speaks Up
Residents like Savannah local Susan Atkinson voiced their concerns passionately. While she acknowledged the existence of larger buildings across the city, she emphasized the importance of maintaining balance within the community. “Putting a 5-6 story structure next to the 4-story Liberty Parking Garage would throw the block out of balance,” she argued. “I think that’s the point: to keep Savannah balanced.”
It seems the community’s voice is loud and clear! Almost every person who took the floor during the meeting expressed opposition to the proposed height. They also commented online, sharing similar sentiments against the hotel concept altogether. Many felt that Savannah might already have a saturation-level of hotels, raising the question: When is enough, enough?
The Bigger Picture
The hotel proposal was one of two major projects discussed during the meeting, with another 6-story hotel proposed for 20-24 E. Oglethorpe Ave. also facing scrutiny, although it was continued ahead of the meeting. While the specifics about the hotel use are outside HDBR’s discussion realm, HSF CEO and President Sue Adler took the opportunity to remind everyone that the growing number of hotels in town definitely warrants a conversation with city leaders.
“I think we all have to stop and think when is the day when we have too many hotels in this town?” Adler insisted, encouraging the community to come together in dialogue about the future.
As Savannah residents continue to weigh in on these towering plans, the question remains: Can the historic charm of this vibrant city be maintained amid the rapid growth and development? Only time will tell!
