Savannah’s Squares Recognized Nationally

Those of us who live in Savannah know how special our squares are, but now they’re receiving national attention.
The American Planning Association has named them one of the Top Ten Best public spaces in the country.
They join the ranks of past recipients like Central Park in New York City, and Union Station in Washington D.C.
News Three’s Community Reporter Alice Massimi was there as the honor was bestowed on the city.

They are oasis’ in the midst of a beautiful city… places to relax, reflect or just escape, spaces that add historic character in the midst of modern day life.
“The plan was brought here by Oglethorpe and started being implemented in 1734,” explains Savannah’s Mayor Otis Johnson. 
There are twenty two squares in all; placed strategically throughout the city each one has its own personality.
Downtown Neighborhood President Randy Kulp and his family favor Troup Square.
“We are raising two young children downtown so we find ourselves making the rounds through all the different squares, just to keep things fresh and exciting for the kids,” explains Kulp. 
From fountains to statues to beautiful garden areas each square has its own story.   
Soon to be added to the city’s collection of squares is the new and improved Ellis Square. It’s set to be completed by the end of this year.
You wouldn’t know by looking at it but it’s one of the original squares laid out by Oglethorpe and in the early days served as the City Market.
“In the 50s because of the rush to modernize people didn’t value the market so they tore it down and built a very, very ugly parking garage,” points out Mayor Johnson. 
Thankfully that was also torn down and now the history the city is so well known for will be restored.

Savannah’s Squares are not just being recognized because of their beauty but also for the city’s commitment to protecting and restoring them.
Last year the same organization named Bull Street one of America’s Top Ten Great Streets