***Second of three zoning items for the subject parcels and corresponds to item #12. On May 23, 2024, this item was continued by the petitioner. ***

The Petitioner is requesting to rezone 1201 Abercorn and 115 East Duffy Streets from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) 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. Redevelopment of the site for this purpose requires a variance to the off-street parking requirements, which is also requested to be reviewed at this time. The primary parcel, at 0.15 acres, is covered 100% by the existing historic church. The adjoining parcel, at 0.07 acres, is presently undeveloped. The subject parcels consist of 0.22 acres in total. 

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 rezone from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to Traditional Commercial-1 (TC-1) with the following conditions:

1. A recombination plat for the two subject parcels shall be submitted upon approval by City Council.
2. Development shall be consistent with the General Development Plan reviewed and approved in association with this rezoning petition. Future redevelopment shall require MPC approval of a new General Development Plan.