Savannah Mall’s future is getting a more detailed look. A new Urban Land Institute study presented September 24 outlines steps for redeveloping the mall property and improving the surrounding Southside.
The recommendations look beyond replacing the old shopping center. They describe a mix of housing, public gathering space and community services, with better walking, biking and transit connections to nearby neighborhoods and Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong campus.
Ideas include a civic hub with resident services, library space and programs for different age groups. Public green space and an athletic complex are also suggested as possible anchors, rather than confirmed projects.
Before redevelopment could take shape, the panel recommends bringing the mall property and its separate ownership interests under coordinated control. Access agreements, utilities and other site restrictions would also need to be addressed.
Further steps include a market study, a development framework and a process to select a master developer. A library, sports facilities, housing and changes to surrounding roads would still need more planning before construction.
The work builds on a 2018 concept for a walkable mixed-use neighborhood at the mall, with shops, parks and stronger connections across Abercorn Street.
For now, the new study is a roadmap, not an approved construction plan. It gives the Southside redevelopment effort a clearer sequence of next steps, but does not establish an opening date for a new district.
