Reviving Savannah: Community Driven to Restore Vibrant Heart of West Broad Street

Reviving the Heart of Savannah: A Community’s Determination

Welcome to Savannah, a city steeped in history and charm, where radiant sunshine fills the sky even on chilly days, with temperatures around a brisk 55°F and a cozy low of 38°F expected tonight. The winds are light and variable, perfect weather to inspire change in our beloved community.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

Not too long ago, West Broad Street, known today as Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, was a bustling center of small businesses and vibrant community life. Among the noteworthy figures in this narrative is Richard Shinholster, a true testament to resilience and determination. He opened a record shop back in 1968 that catered to the musically inclined residents who found it tough to discover rhythm and blues, jazz, and gospel music locally.

Shinholster and his partner, Percy Harden, saw a golden opportunity. They sourced records from distributors as far away as New York and California, creating a new hub for music lovers in the area. For a while, the shop hummed with life and laughter, a true reflection of the neighborhood’s spirit.

The Rise and Fall

However, as fate would have it, change was on the horizon. The construction of the I-16 flyover was intended to ease traffic but ultimately became a disruption for the West Broad area. “After the flyover opened, people left this area,” explained Shinholster with a heavy heart. “African Americans were displaced, and the community lost its customer base.” Unfortunately, by the early 1970s, his cherished record shop had to close its doors.

Yet, giving up was not in Shinholster’s DNA. Nearly paying off the mortgage, he chose to take full ownership of the space. He knew there would be a chance to reinvent the area and create something greater down the line—a choice that would define his legacy.

From Music to Art

Fast forward to 2001, and Shinholster seized an opportunity to transform that very building into the Diaspora Marketplace. Inspired by his travels throughout Africa, he created a vibrant African art store that has become a treasure trove of culture and heritage in Savannah. “The flyover has always been a barrier to development,” he noted. Despite the odds, he has been actively working toward change.

Hope on the Horizon

Today, Shinholster serves as a pivotal figure for the I-16 Flyover Coalition, a dedicated group with a mission to remove the flyover and breathe life back into the area. Their vision is bold: a return to the roots of Savannah’s street grid, affordable housing initiatives, and renewed opportunities for small businesses—much like the Diaspora Market.

“When the flyover is removed, about eight and a half acres of new land will open up,” said Shinholster, his excitement palpable. “I’d love to see green spaces, affordable housing, and opportunities for small businesses. We need to create a community where everyone can thrive.”

A Personal Mission

For Shinholster, this mission is deeply personal. He hopes to honor his late brother, Earl T. Shinholster, a civil rights leader, by having a square or green space dedicated in his memory once the flyover comes down. “It’s about preserving our community’s history while finding a way to revive it to what it once was,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As Savannah continues to bask in the abundant sunshine, the spirit of determination shines even brighter. The story of Richard Shinholster is a reminder that, despite challenges, a community can come together to create a brighter future. With passion and hard work, Savannah’s heart is ready to beat again. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring journey!