Top 5 Savannah Buildings/Areas in Need of Revitalization
I want to preface this post by saying that Savannah has made amazing strides in an effort to revitalize the city. The recession caused various initiatives to take a step back, but for the most part redevelopment has been slow but steady. Downtown’s Historic District, East and West River Street, the Drayton Towers, and the old Candler Hospital building are all receiving well needed face-lifts. Still, there are some other areas and buildings around town that I feel can add to Savannah’s economic growth. In no particular order:
1. Old Sears Building
Just south of Forsyth Park on East Henry Street. I’ve heard different ideas on what to do with the Sears Building such as a movie theater, grocery store, Children’s activity center and Homeless shelter. Whatever it shall be, make it quick!
2. Romana Riley
After the Eastside elementary school’s closing in 1990 because of poor conditions, the building has since been used as a failed alternative education school, and a deal to establish the property as condominiums fell through. I grew up in this neighborhood, so I really hope this structure can be salvaged.
3. Bell South Building
This is the second property on the list that is just south of Forsyth Park. This area would really benefit from a makeover of Sears and Bell South. As far as the building itself, I really don’t like it. That is all.
4. Waters Avenue Corridor
22 blocks of businesses are waiting. Although, when SCAD is hesitant to buy your property, you should be worried. I wrote an earlier post about my thoughts on Waters Avenue’s Revitalization.
5. West Bay Street
City Government feels that West Bay street businesses should be torn down in order to widen lanes and ultimately beautify the corridor. I wholeheartedly disagree. In a game of word association, the words West Savannah immediately make me think of West Bay Street. Businesses such as Rib Hut, Mills Direct Carpet, Happy China Chinese Food, and Action Gasket have stood for over 30 years. How can two extra lanes of traffic be better than that? Savannah’s unemployment rate is nothing to sneeze at. Businesses are essential. How about less worry about traffic, and more community and business stimulation?
The Truth of The Matter Is...... 