Developer Ben Carter gave more details on his $72 million plan to return historic Broughton Street to its heyday as a shopping mecca Tuesday, asking members of the public and city officials to keep an open mind as he begins renovations on some of the buildings he’s purchased.
With 21 properties under contract between Montgomery and Drayton, Carter said his plan could create 800 retail and restaurant jobs and add more than 100 new residents to downtown through the building of 80 urban apartments above shops. Carter said he eventually hopes to acquire about 25 properties.
Carter spoke at press conference at 201 W. Broughton, the old Silver’s Five & Dime, a space he’s signed a master lease on from owner Michael Brown. At least 100 people showed up, including city officials, elected leaders, Broughton Street business owners and interested members of the public.
“This is not a downtown revitalization project — your downtown is vital,” said Carter, “it just needs some amenities that we think we can build on to make it a better lifestyle for everybody.”
He said he planned to begin renovations immediately after closing on the buildings. Carter said he is helping one national retailer build a new store in an empty lot next to McDonald’s.
For more on this story check back Savannahnow.com or read tomorrow’s Savannah Morning News.