Savannah has served as a model of planned urban development since its founding by James Oglethorpe in 1733. The Advance Planning and Special Projects department carries this tradition of planned development into the twenty-first century. The long term success of Chatham County and the City of Savannah is based on a strategic approach to balancing a desirable built environment, economic development, natural resources, transportation options, and a high quality of life for our residents.

The Advance Planning and Special Projects Department prepares the long-term plan, known as the Chatham County – Savannah Comprehensive Plan, which describes specific goals and strategies designed to achieve a shared community vision. Advance Planning staff also works to ensure that other plans and projects are consistent with the goals and objectives identified in the Chatham County – Savannah Comprehensive Plan.

The Natural Resources Department works closely with jurisdictions in Chatham County on stormwater management, sea level rise, and other natural resource issues that cross municipal boundaries. Regional coordination is vital to ensuring that our population has clean communities and healthy waterways.

Thank you for everything you have contributed to this plan which will guide our communities’ decisions over the next 20 years and shape our communities for generations to come. We could not have done this without you. You can view each of the full Comprehensive Plans for Garden City, Pooler, Savannah, and unincorporated Chatham County on the Plan 2040 website.