Improvements in downtown Savannah are underway

These pedestrian refuge islands and curb extensions (also known as bulb-outs,) provide safer crossing points and encourage responsible driving speeds consistent with the downtown 25 mph limit.

The City of Savannah is making significant
progress on its Downtown Multimodal Access
Project, a forward-looking infrastructure initiative
designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and
overall quality of life for residents and visitors
alike.
Funded (95%) through the Tennessee Department
of Transportation (TDOT) Multimodal Access Grant program,
the project reflects the City’s continued commitment to creating a more connected and vibrant
downtown.
Originally initiated in 2017, the project focuses on improving mobility for all users—pedestrians, bicyclists, tourist
buses, and motorists— while strengthening the
functionality and visual appeal of Savannah’s
Main Street corridor.
Construction is currently underway along State Highway 64, from Water Street to J.I. Bell Lane, where critical gaps
in the sidewalk network are being addressed
to create a safer, more accessible pedestrian
environment.
Key enhancements include upgraded pedestrian
infrastructure such as widened, ADAcompliant
curb ramps and high-visibility crosswalks,
making it easier and safer for individuals
of all abilities to navigate downtown.

The project also incorporates traffic-calming features, including pedestrian refuge islands and curb extensions (also known
as bulb-outs,) which provide safer crossing points and encourage responsible driving speeds consistent with
the downtown 25 mph limit.
In addition to safety improvements, the
project introduces new streetscaping elements, including landscaping and aesthetic upgrades that will enhance the
character and charm of Savannah’s historic
downtown.
These improvements are designed to support
local businesses by creating a more inviting
environment for foot traffic and community
engagement.
City officials have also addressed questions
regarding changes to curbs, streetscapes, and
parking. The redesigned curbs are intentionally
constructed to provide pedestrians with a
protected space while preparing to cross the
roadway.
Despite these visual changes, vehicular travel
lanes remain comfortably wider than required
standards.
While the minimum lane width is 12 feet, Savannah’s
downtown lanes will maintain a generous
14-foot width, ensuring continued ease of travel
for motorists.
Another concern has been the potential loss of
downtown parking. The project has resulted in a
net loss of approximately two on-street parking
spaces. In contrast, the city has added over 100
new parking spaces in a newly paved downtown
parking lot, ensuring ample parking remains
available to support businesses and visitors.
Construction on the Multimodal Project began
April 1, and is anticipated to be completed by September of this year.

Upon completion, the project will deliver lasting benefits by
improving connectivity, enhancing public safety, and reinforcing
Savannah’s commitment to a thriving, accessible downtown for all.
For more information, please contact the City
of Savannah at 731-925-3300