One of the most unique towns in the entire country, Savannah is a must-visit to millions of tourists each year. The small southern town is primarily noted for its historic roots, breathtaking architecture, and fantastic artistic scene. Savannah was considered ahead of its time when it became the first planned city in the 18th century, and that identity is about to be re-established. A new city plan is in the works for the original Georgia capital, and without forgetting its historic roots, the design will illuminate a bright future for Savannah. Here’s more on what you can expect to change in this fascinating town.

The elaborate structure of Savannah dates back to 1733, when city planners dreamed up designs of neoclassical architecture, gorgeous public squares, and a mindful road system.

Y Nakanishi/flickr

A stroll downtown along the famous public squares reveals live oaks, Spanish moss, gardens, statues, and blocks of Victorian homes. And these trademark elements of Savannah aren’t going anywhere.

Ken Lund/flickr

What is being redesigned has little to do with such historic gems and much to do with other public spaces, with an eye on the Savannah River.

Doug Hoffman/flickr

The project, known as the Savannah Downtown Streetscape Improvement Initiative, is being led by the design firm EDSA. Major objectives include preserving the city’s historic integrity while encouraging a new model for urban streets and transportation.

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The Savannah River, which has played a major role in the city’s development since the 1700s, will become a more prominent feature of the city. Additional palm trees and nautical design will allow visitors to more easily access the river.

Scott Oves/flickr

There will also be emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle safety, with safer and more walkable public spaces throughout the town.

Wikipedia

The conceptual design phase, which has recently been completed, involved working with the residents of Savannah in a series of public meetings to create cohesive plan for everyone involved.

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The project is being led in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner, in hopes of putting the least amount of burden on the existing buildings, design, and environment as possible.

Miguel Vieira/flickr

Akhenaton06/flickr Preserving the Historic District is also an integral part of the project. Areas that will be improved upon in future stages of construction include corridors from Liberty Street to the Savannah River and from Martin Luther King Jr. Street to E. Broad Street.

Construction for Savannah Downtown Streetscape Initiative will begin in 2018. If you’re curious about scheduling and further details about the implementation of this plan, be sure to visit Savannah’s Official Government site here. What are your thoughts on the redesign of Savannah? Be sure to share with us!

Y Nakanishi/flickr

Ken Lund/flickr

Doug Hoffman/flickr

Josh Hallett/flickr

Scott Oves/flickr

Wikipedia

Peter C in Toronto Canada/flickr

Miguel Vieira/flickr

Akhenaton06/flickr

Preserving the Historic District is also an integral part of the project. Areas that will be improved upon in future stages of construction include corridors from Liberty Street to the Savannah River and from Martin Luther King Jr. Street to E. Broad Street.

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