The City of Savannah is advancing plans to redevelop the Canal District, aiming to bridge downtown with the city’s historically Black neighborhoods on its west side.
Development proposals include housing, a farmers market, and a food hall in the historic Water Works Building. The city’s focus aligns with community priorities for affordable housing, ownership opportunities, and access to fresh food, according to a presentation by RCLCO, the project consultants, at a recent open house.
Around 50 residents attended, voicing support for affordable housing and fresh food accessibility. Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier emphasized the goal of transformational development.
The Canal District, linking downtown to these neighborhoods, has five city-owned properties considered viable for development. These include areas around Stiles Avenue and the Water Works Building, which is undergoing planning for multiple potential uses.
Bodua Gordon, a resident and leader of the Savannah Community Land Trust, supported the holistic approach, advocating for condos to enhance home ownership.
RCLCO’s analysis highlighted a potential revenue gap of $400,000 to $600,000 for the Water Works Building, suggesting the need for additional funding sources. Two operational models were proposed: city-led programming with nonprofit partnerships, or full nonprofit management.
Housing plans include built-for-rent homes, affordable apartments, and market-rate units, with a focus on small-lot and rowhomes for affordability and community alignment.
Fresh food options, a community priority, may be limited to farmers markets and corner stores due to current housing density.
Gordon stressed ongoing community engagement, stating, “They need to make sure they hear the voice of the community.”
