Exciting Developments on the Horizon for Savannah
Savannah is buzzing with anticipation! It has been nearly one year since the City Council made a significant decision to remove a series of mid-century buildings from the contributing structures list on the southwest corner of Forsyth Park. This move opened the doors for demolition, which was the first step towards exciting new plans for that location. With the agreement to create an underground parking garage paired with a modern office complex above, it seems that this area is set for a transformation.
What’s Next?
Later this month, conceptual plans for the new office space will be presented to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). This will be the very first opportunity for residents and stakeholders to see what’s in store for this pivotal site. The designs come from LS3P Associates in collaboration with development partners and neighborhood associations, promising about 125,000 square feet of Class A office space right at the park’s edge. Jeff Jepson, the Vice President and COO of Evans General Contractors, mentions, “What we have is a group think solution to what was appropriate and what wasn’t appropriate for the site.”
Local Business Hopes
This new office complex is anticipated to become home to well-known local businesses including Evans General Contractors, HunterMaclean, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, and Dulany Industries. Some of the leaders from these companies are expected to take meaningful roles in the development partnership, known as Forsyth Commons Holdings LLC, which is working closely with the city on the garage project.
As part of the planning process, members of the development group have been meeting with executives from the Victorian and Thomas Square Neighborhood Associations every two weeks to ensure a thoughtful and inclusive design process. Nancy Maia, the current president of the Victorian Neighborhood Association (VNA), expressed her enthusiasm for the project stating, “We really believe it has the opportunity to support our vision and values that we have already set as a neighborhood.”
Balancing Modern Needs with Community Feel
According to Jepson, one of the main concerns during development discussions was ensuring that the design would harmonize well with the surrounding area. To achieve this, the complex is divided into two primary structures: one located at Whitaker Street and Park Avenue, and the other at Park Avenue and Howard Street. Jepson says that breaking up the development helps “break the mass” and allows for better integration with the existing neighborhood. The heart of the complex will showcase a visually appealing curved element at the important corner of Whitaker Street and Park Avenue, echoing the beloved elements of the old Savannah Bank Building.
What Can Residents Expect?
The main building will feature four stories and a set-back fifth floor, while the adjacent structure at Park Avenue and Howard Street will have three stories. Interestingly, the area currently occupied by Campbell and Sons Funeral Home will be transformed and contribute thoughtfully to the neighborhood’s visual appeal, with careful consideration to its residential character.
Noteworthy is the proposed addition of roughly six townhomes on a site now occupied by a surface parking lot along Waldburg and Howard Streets. This reflects a desire for mixed-use development that can enrich the urban landscape. Jepson hinted at the possibility of retail spaces on the ground floor of the main building, attracting options like a cozy coffee shop or sandwich spot, further enhancing community engagement.
Community Engagement
Maia emphasized that this early collaboration with developers is indeed a rare opportunity that she appreciates. The VNA is eagerly looking forward to gathering feedback from its full membership before the plans go before the HPC. “We support where (the project) is, and where we believe it is going, with the caveat that any future support is dependent on where it goes and any input we get (from residents),” she remarked.
Wrapping Up
As Savannah progresses towards a renewed look and feel for the Forsyth Park area, the community’s involvement and input will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping its future. With skilled developers and local businesses stepping up to the plate, there’s a sense of hope and excitement that this new office complex will perfectly blend modern development while respecting the charm and character of Savannah.
