***First of three zoning items for the subject parcels and corresponds to item #17. On May 23, 2024, this item was continued by the petitioner. ***

The Petitioner is requesting an amendment of the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial for the subject parcels to adaptively reuse the existing historic church on the parcel as a restaurant and event venue. The church is identified as a contributing resource in the Victorian Historic District. The adjoining parcel at 115 East Duffy is proposed to be developed as off-street parking in support of the use. The subject parcels have a combined area of 0.22 acres. The subject parcel has been home to several congregations in the past but is not currently in operation. The Petitioner’s intent is to adaptively redevelop the contributing historic building as a restaurant. 

The existing church at 1201 Abercorn Street is a significant community building in a residential area with a history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally Duffy Street Baptist Church, it was rebuilt after a hurricane in 1896 and later expanded by architects Alfred Eichberg and Hyman Witcover in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. Renamed Second Baptist Church in 1923, it later became Asbury United Methodist Church in 1930, serving as a hub for Savannah's African American community. Despite its historical significance, the church faced challenges such as water damage and lack of accessibility, leading to its designation as a historic site in need of preservation. Ultimately, the congregation decided to sell the building in 2024.

On April 30, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the request to amend the FLUM from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial.