Downtown construction reshapes Savannah’s historic district: residents weigh in

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Construction in Savannah’s historic district is ongoing, with multiple projects underway near Wright Square drawing responses from residents and tourists alike.

Courthouse and demolition projects drive activity

The Tomochichi Federal Courthouse, under construction for five years, is expected to wrap up this fall. Businesses near Wright Square said they have benefited from the presence of construction crews during that period.

The Juliette Gordon Low A Building began its demolition process on July 6 and is closing State Street for a total of eight weeks.

Ida George, a resident who lives off Oglethorpe Avenue, said she can hear construction from both the Tomochichi Courthouse and the Juliette Gordon Low A Building demolition.

“I feel like we have a beautiful city, I don’t mind sharing it and I hope that some urban planners will come and get the idea that the squares are marvels,” George said.

Ritz-Carlton project draws attention

A new downtown luxury hotel, the Savannah Ritz-Carlton, is also now under construction and is expected to finish in early 2028.

Savannah resident Mark Denton said the number of projects in recent decades is changing his view of the city.

“Downtown is just Disneyland now,” Denton said. “It takes away from it being a real city.”

Denton said the city was different when he was growing up. “In the 70s and 80s you’d see little old ladies sitting on the porch, you’d see kids playing in the squares,” he said.

Tourist Wayne Hebert offered a different perspective on the Ritz-Carlton project.

“It’ll help hold more people so that they can be downtown because right now it’s a little bit limited,” Hebert said. “I know the locals around here see it all the time, like us. We don’t notice it.”

Residents see economic benefit

Denton and George both said construction is important because it beautifies the city and increases tourism. George said tourism brings money into the city, which she said lowers her taxes.

Tourist Tina Coleman said she views the activity positively. “We look at it as progress,” Coleman said.

Several other residents and tourists said they believe downtown construction is generally beneficial, though some said too much construction harms the city rather than preparing it for the future.

Additional projects are planned, including a parking garage at Eastern Wharf and an underground parking garage near South Forsyth.