New Beginnings in Savannah with Groundbreaking for Legacy Savannah
In a surprising turn of events that has many locals buzzing with excitement, Savannah recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Legacy Savannah, a new multi-use development project set to transform the area at 4801 Meding St. Two large white tents stood proudly on the former Coastal Empire Fairgrounds site, sheltering around 100 attendees who came together for this auspicious occasion. The atmosphere was electric, thanks to a lively DJ and the presence of community leaders from both the past and present, who all shared in the joy of welcoming a significant new chapter for the city.
A Vision for All
As the celebrations kicked off, Robert Gould, the CEO and Managing Partner of the project developer P3JVG, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Legacy will be a place where all of Savannah can live, grow and thrive.” This ambitious project will not only feature 400 income-based housing units but also include production studios and youth sports facilities, making it a versatile community hub for everyone in Savannah.
Breaking Ground on Phase One
The exciting part? The first phase of this project, which ceremonially broke ground recently, will introduce 30 new single-family homes and 20 townhomes to the area. This development is particularly significant, as Savannah grapples with a staggering housing shortage of at least 10,000 units. The need for affordable housing has never been clearer, and Legacy Savannah aims to address this urgent issue effectively.
A Long Journey of Commitment
It’s worth noting that the city’s journey with this property goes back a few years. The site was first purchased in 2016 during the administration of former Mayor Eddie Deloach. In 2020, during Mayor Van Johnson’s administration, the city sought proposals for a public-private partnership to revitalize the site, paving the way for the current development agreement approved by the city council.
Mayor Johnson emphasized the long-standing dream for affordable housing, remarking, “We have never given up on the dream that inspired this project.” He advocates for quality housing options for every Savannahian and believes that this project’s completion could mark a significant step toward that goal.
Plan of Action
The Legacy Savannah project is aligned with recommendations from the 2021 Housing Savannah Action Plan, which called for the city to utilize its own properties to construct more dwellings. To ensure accessibility, every housing unit will feature income-based affordability covenants, while the second phase will likely benefit from a 9% state Low-Income Housing Tax Credit aimed at senior living accommodations.
Additionally, the city recently secured a $2.5 million state grant to support the construction of necessary sewer infrastructure, a vital element that will be completed during phase one. This strong financial backing reflects the importance of the development to the city and its residents.
Looking Ahead with Excitement
Excitingly, the full development plan comprises five phases, which will ultimately bring a 2.4-acre park, basketball courts, and even movie studios, along with more housing units. Each phase is designed with a timeline of 12 months for completion, except for the final phase, which will take up to 18 months.
Community Impact
Alderwoman Estella Shabazz, who represents the area, shared her vision for the project, saying it will “lift up the entire city.” As the shovels turned the soil that day, she poignantly noted, “We are planting seeds of a brighter future, one that includes all of us.” The sentiments shared at the groundbreaking event underscore the enthusiasm and hope for what is sure to be a transformational development for Savannah.
As we look ahead, fingers crossed for a future where affordable housing is not just a dream but a reality for everyone in our beloved city!
