HomeMy Public PortalAbout20160914 City of Tybee Island Master Plan Revised.pdf
CITY OF
TYBEE ISLAND
MASTER PLAN
Submitted to:
Georgia Department of
Community Affairs
JULY, 2016
i
PREFACE
In compliance with the Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning set forth
by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, this Master Plan was prepared through a collaborative
and coordinated community-driven effort. This effort included extensive work by members of the
Advisory Working Group, comprised of citizen volunteers, as well as members of the community who
participated through public meetings, local staff, and the consultant team.
City of Tybee Island community members spent, collectively, approximately hundreds of hours in the
development of this master plan. This extensive citizen investment in the planning process ensures that
the plan aligns with the community vision for the future.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1. Introduction .................................................................................................. 1-1
Chapter 2. Community Participation ......................................................................... 2-1
Chapter 3. Community Vision and Goals ................................................................ 3-1
Chapter 4. Needs and Opportunities ........................................................................ 4-1
Chapter 5. Achieving the Vision .................................................................................. 5-1
Appendices
Community Participation Documentation
Survey Results
Character Area Map
Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Work Program Report of Accomplishments
Quality Community Objectives Assessment
Desired Design Patterns and Architectural Styles Guidebook
Transmittal Resolution
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
I N T R O D U C T I O N
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan
The Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan is the 20-year plan that identifies the vision, goals, objectives, and
strategies. This comprehensive plan is required to be updated every ten years, and is focused on
addressing the changing conditions and community needs for Tybee Island.
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) sets forth requirements for local governments to
maintain their status as a Qualified Local Government, which includes the development and adoption of a
Comprehensive Plan. Status as a Qualified Local Government provides eligibility for grants and technical
assistance. The Comprehensive Plan must be developed in compliance with the Rules, effective March 1,
2014, found in Chapter 110-12-1, which establishes the Minimum Standards and Procedures for
Comprehensive Planning. These rules provide the framework for the development and implementation of
the Comprehensive Plan and “reflect and important state interest: healthy and economically vibrant cities
and counties are vital to the state’s economic prosperity.”
Local planning is recognized as a critical element in meeting the state interests. The foundation of the
plan should be fact-based information that enables tracking of policy implementation within the
community, as well as the creation of a stable environment for business and industry, property owners,
and members of the community. The plan provides communities with the tools to implement focused
economic development strategies and initiatives that ultimately support the state’s role in the global
market.
The minimum standards and procedures for comprehensive plans incorporate the existing conditions
within the community, the identification of needs and opportunities, and strategies that support
communities in meeting their aspirational goals.
Planning Requirements
In addition to the requirement for the development of the plan, the DCA regulations also include specific
elements that are required for incorporation into the plan. These required elements are the minimum for
the plan, however, each community is encouraged to include additional elements that robustly reflect the
needs and opportunities that exist within the community.
The City of Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan includes the required elements, and based on the identified
goals and objectives, includes additional elements to address the needs and desires of the community.
The required plan elements include:
Community Vision and Goals
Needs and Opportunities
Land Use
Transportation
Housing
Community Work Program
I N T R O D U C T I O N
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Through the public participation and public input process, additional elements for inclusion in the plan
were developed. These additional elements reflect the unique character and needs of Tybee Island.
These additional elements include:
Community Preservation
Sustainability
Intergovernmental Coordination
CHAPTER 2
COMMUNITY PARTICIPAT ION
C O M M U N I T Y P A R T I C I P A T I O N
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Community Participation and Input
The development of the Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan incorporated a significant public involvement
and participation component. For a plan to be meaningful and impl ementable, the community input is
critical.
CARRYING CAPACITY STUDY
In addition to the development of the Master Plan, the City of Tybee Island also undertook a Carrying
Capacity Study. Coordination with this study, which was underway concurrently with the Master Plan, was
a key opportunity of the planning process. Because of the overlap in the two studies, including data
needs, community participation and development of guiding strategies for the future of the island, the
two planning processes were closely interwoven and coordinated. The dual effort was an efficient use of
resources and the coordinated effort provided additional opportunities for stakeholder input throughout
the planning process.
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION PLAN
The first step in the public involvement process was the development of the Community Participation
Plan. This plan describes the processes, procedures and protocols employed during the planning process
to ensure that members of the public have ample opportunity to provide input. Public participation is a
critical aspect of the plan development and it is through public participation that the community based
vision, goals, needs and opportunities and strategies are developed.
The Community Participation Plan identified specific goals and objectives to guide the input process.
These goals and objectives which provide the framework for the participation process are outlined below.
Goal:
Identify all stakeholders and members of the public who need to participate in the plann ing process and
provide input in the development of the plan.
Objectives:
Coordinate with local government staff to identify community members who should be actively
involved in the plan, particularly community elected officials and other local government
committee members
Ensure participation of these identified community members which will foster the ongoing
implementation of the plan
Goal:
Form a citizens committee that will meet regularly throughout the planning process and provide input
and guidance in the development of the plan.
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Objectives:
Provide opportunities for members of the committee to review and understand detailed
technical analyses
Provide opportunities for members of the committee to provide input on an ongoing and
regular basis throughout the plan development
Goal:
Provide opportunities for stakeholders, interested parties and members of the general public to learn
about and help shape strategies through an active involvement process that is open, inclusive and
accessible to all citizens and their perspectives.
Objectives:
Provide participation and educational opportunities for any citizen
Develop partnerships among the local governments, agencies and community organizations
Build trust among all project participants
Goal:
Provide clear, accurate and understandable information that can be transmitted to citizens and interested
parties through a variety of means.
Objectives:
Use clear and understandable language, as well as graphics to clearly communicate technical
issues
Use a variety of media, including websites, fact sheets, and public meeting presentations to
disseminate information and data, particularly at key decision points during the process
Identify opportunities to obtain input from a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, including those
populations that are traditionally underserved in the planning process
Goal:
Provide avenues to efficiently receive input from the public and to integrate the input into the
development of the plan.
Objectives:
Monitor the progress of the technical analysis through project team meetings, workshops,
public forums and other stakeholder involvement activities to identify issues and concerns
Provide documentation of these issues and concerns
Provide acknowledgement of input received from stakeholders
Goal:
Monitor the effectiveness of the planning process and the public involvement process through
communicating and receiving information among stakeholders, citizens, planning partners and the project
team.
Objectives:
Conduct questionnaires of participants during activities, such as workshops, to gauge the
effectiveness of the format
Collect input from the community through additional methods, such as surveys
Solicit feedback from the advisory committees and any technical committees on their
satisfaction with the input opportunities and activities
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Ideally, the planning process involves many community members to obtain input from the varied interests
and perspectives. The plan development process included the formation of an Advisory Working Gr oup.
This group, comprised of community members who volunteered to serve at the first public meeting,
reviewed detailed information throughout the process and provided extensive feedback in the plan
development. While volunteers at the first public meeting were solicited for the working group,
additional members of the community were welcomed at each meeting.
The working group included sitting and former members of the City Council, business owners, property
owners, historical society members, members of the community focused on environmental issues, retirees,
and other community members. The working group met three times over the course of the planning
process and provided guidance and input at critical milestones.
Public meetings were also held and provided the opportunity for members of the community to provide
feedback. The public meetings, as well as the Advisory Working Group meetings, were scheduled at the
beginning of the effort to ensure all community members were well aware of the opportu nities for
involvement. The meetings were scheduled to avoid conflicts with other Island committee and
commission meetings to provide maximum opportunities for participation. All meetings were held on a
Tuesday evening, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Tybee City Hall.
Many of the participants also were involved in the development of the Carrying Capacity Study. Because
of the significant overlap in the efforts, joint meetings were also held to ensure the full coordination of the
study.
In addition to the opportunities for public input at meetings, a community survey was developed based
on the input received at the first public meeting. The survey focused on the prioritization of issues and
goals. The survey, both hard copy and on-line, was available for community responses from February 25,
2016 through April 1, 2016. A total of 201 responses were collected from both the on -line and hard copy
versions. Survey results are found in the Appendix.
A summary of the public and advisory group meetings is provided below; detailed information is found in
the Appendix.
Public Meeting # 1: February 16, 2016
This meeting served as a project kick-off meeting. The plan requirements, elements, and process was
described through a powerpoint presentation that covered the purpose of the plan and the approach for
completion. It was at this first meeting that volunteers for the Advisory Working Group were solicited. In
addition, the meeting participants broke out into working groups to identify the issues facing th e
community.
Advisory Working Group Meeting # 1: March 15, 2016
The first meeting of the Advisory Working Group focused on a review of the Carrying Capacity Study; a
review of existing conditions, including water, wastewater, infrastructure, transportation, land use, zoning,
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housing and population; the presentation of survey responses as of the meeting date; and a review,
discussion and refinement of the Community Goals and focus areas. The refinements to the goals were
suggested to address the changing conditions since the previous plan. Participants were also asked to
mark maps depicting the changes in land use, as well as what land uses should occur.
Public Meeting # 2: April 5, 2016
The second public meeting provided a review of the final survey results and a review of the Community
Vision and Goals and priorities, as well as the issues and goals identified within the Carrying Capacity
Study. Participants provided feedback and refinements to the goals and the priorities to be addressed in
the plan.
Advisory Working Group Meeting # 2: April 12, 2016
The second Advisory Working Group meeting focused on finalizing the goals for the plan and the
refinement of the character areas. The final results of the survey were compiled and presented, forming
the framework for finalizing the Community Vision and Goals. The Vision and Goals were carefully
reviewed and refined based on comments from the working group. Each character area from the previous
plan was reviewed in detail and refinements to those character areas were provided based on the
changing conditions.
Advisory Working Group Meeting # 3: May 10, 2016
The third working group meeting included a review of the character areas, updated based on comments
from previous meetings, and the identification of development strategies; and a review of the
opportunities and strategies developed to address the issues identified from previous meetings and the
surveys. Additional comments on the opportunities and strategies were also collected by email after th e
meeting, incorporated and sent back to the meeting participants for review, comment and were finalized.
Public Meeting # 3: June 13, 2016
The third public meeting was held in conjunction with the Tybee Island Planning Commission meeting and
was rescheduled due to a city staff schedule conflict. The public workshop occurred after the Planning
Commission meeting was adjourned and provided members of the public the opportunity to provide
feedback on the final draft of the opportunities and strategies deve loped to address the issues and needs.
An update on the plan development was also formally provided to the Planning Commission as part of
their regular agenda.
City Council Presentations/Updates
Regular updates were provided to the City Council on the st atus of the plan and the planning process.
Updates were given at the City Council meetings held on February 11, 2016 and J une 9, 2016. The draft
plan was presented to the City Council on July 28, 2016 and the resolution submitting the plan to the
Coastal Regional Commission and DCA was adopted at that meeting. Comments received were
addressed and City Council is anticipated to formally adopt the plan at its October 13, 2016 meeting.
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Public Hearings
Formal public hearings will be held in conjunction with the City Council meetings of July 28, 2016 and
October 13, 2016. These public hearings will provide additional opportunity to formally enter comments
into the record.
Additional Public/Stakeholder Meetings
Additional public and stakeholder meetings were held during the planning process. These included
meetings focused on the Carrying Capacity Study and members of the planning team attended each of
these meetings, which occurred on March 29, 2016 and June 1, 2016. An update on the plan
development was also provided to the Tybee VIPs on March 28, 2016. This group of over 50 senior
citizens meet regularly and had the opportunity to ask questions
and provide feedback on the development of the plan.
Survey
A key component of the public input process was the community-
wide survey. The survey incorporated the results of the public
meeting and the identification of needs and issues that resulted
from that input. This survey was administered both through hard
copy and on-line, accessed through the City’s website. Handouts
were also developed and disseminated that included the weblink, as
well as QR code leading to the online survey.
The survey ran from February 26, 2016 through April 1, 2016.
During that timeframe, an additional meeting was held with the
Tybee VIPs and the flyer with the survey information, as well as hard
copies, were also handed out to the participants. The survey
generated 201 responses from community members.
From the survey responses, the top priority needs/issues was the need to keep the height limit restriction
on the Island in place, with over one-half of the respondents identifying that issue as the top priority.
Other priorities included historic preservation and the designation of historic zones, improvements to US
80 and maintaining the unique Tybee sense of place. The results of the survey are shown in Figure 1.
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Figure 1. Survey Results
In addition to the needs/issues, the survey also obtained feedback and input on the goals and priorities o f
the community. The survey responses identified the environment, open space, heritage, traditional
neighborhoods, and sense of place as high priorities for the goals for the Comprehensive Plan. The
results of the survey, combined with the workshop responses, are shown in Figure 2.
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Figure 2. Survey Results
CHAPTER 3
COMMUNITY VISION AND GOALS
C O M M U N I T Y V I S I O N A N D G O A L S
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Community Vision
The development of the community vision is a critical component in charting the course for the future of
the community. Early in the planning process, the Advisory Working Group and the members of the
public reviewed the vision statement from the previously adopted plan. Through the review process, the
existing vision was slightly modified to address the changing conditions since the adoption of the last
plan. This updated vision forms the framework for the Comprehensive Plan and provides the foundation
upon which the City will build towards their future.
Through the community input, the following vision statement was identified:
“As concerned citizens of The City of Tybee Island, we will be conscientious stewards of our unique
historic and cultural heritage, environmental resources, and diverse economic community. We will
also ensure that our growth does not exceed the Island's carrying capacity.
We will foster a vibrant, year-round economy and support our business community in its goal to
provide quality services and facilities for both residents and visitors. We will provide increased
recreational and educational opportunities for all age groups to promote Tybee Island as a family-
friendly, four-season vacation destination, while enhancing the distinctive atmosphere of our
Island life”.
Community Goals
With the development of the Community Vision, the next step in the process was the identification of the
goals for the community, or the quality community objectives. These were developed through the
community participation process, including feedback from the Advisory Working Group, public meetings,
and from the results of the survey. Based on the feedback, the goals were stratified into specific
categories. These goals were identified to ensure future progress for the community in achieving the
vision. The goals include the following:
DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS
Encourage development and re-development in residential areas that is within the context of
traditional neighborhoods
Encourage development and re-development to be compatible with the existing, land uses and
development patterns in adjacent areas
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION
Maintain and preserve our traditional community character and sense of place
Maintain, preserve and enhance our historic and cultural resources
Maintain, preserve and enhance our community open spaces, such as parks, g reenbelts, and wildlife
corridors
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Develop coastal hazard preparedness, or crisis management responses for hurricane preparedness
and recovery from a financial, physical, and safety perspective
SUSTAINABILITY
Encourage a diverse, stable and year round population with a high quality of life
Encourage a focus on quality development within the carry capacity of the island
Ensure that existing water, wastewater, solid waste, and transportation infrastructure is sufficient to
support the current population
Plan for infrastructure improvements, including water, wastewater, solid waste, and transport ation, to
support future growth
Adapt to a changing climate
Protect and preserve our environmentally sensitive areas, including beaches, natural terrain, drainage
areas, vegetation, coastal marshlands, wildlife habitat and corridors, and floodplains
Encourage and support sustainable businesses that serve both year round residents and visitors
Promote a balance of diverse employment opportunities for both the ye ar round and seasonal
workforce
COMMUNITY
Provide for and encourage the use of transportation alternatives, including bike, pedestrian, golf carts
and public transportation
Promote and encourage transportation safety, parking, and traffic solutions for Tybee including US 80
and its bridge infrastructure
Encourage a range of housing sizes, costs, and densities to meet the diverse needs of the population.
Encourage a range of educational and enrichment opp ortunities within the community
Support non-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life, economy and culture of the island
Encourage and support recreational opportunities and amenities, including the existing campground
GOVERNMENTAL/INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
Continue to participate and promote the regional efforts to develop solutions for issues affecting
Tybee, the region and the State
Promote and preserve Tybee’s unique identity within the regional context of Coastal Georgia
Develop and achieve our own vision with State technical and financial support
CARRYING CAPACITY STUDY GOALS
The Carrying Capacity Study also developed a set of goals for that study. Although worded somewhat
differently, the goals of that study are consistent with the goals identified for the Comprehensive Plan.
The Carrying Capacity Study goals are as follows:
• Diverse, stable year round population with a high quality of life
• Healthy, sustainable tourism based economy that also serves the year round population and
business owners in the off season
• Balance between the tourism industry and year round residents
• Protection of environmental, historic and cultural resources
• Safe, multi-modal access to, from and within Tybee
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• Political and public support for plan implementation
• Affordability
• Adapting to a changing climate
C HAPTER 4
NEEDS AND OPPORTUNIT IES
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Needs and Opportunities
The identification of needs and issues is an important step in the development of strategies to address
those needs and issues and to take advantage of opportunities to move the City towards their desired
future. Public and community input is a vital part of the identification of these needs, providing feedback
from a wide array of diverse perspectives found throughout the community.
At the first public meeting, the workshop portion of the meeting included break-out session into small
groups. The groups each focused on the identification of the various needs and issues facing the City of
Tybee Island. Each break-out group included a facilitator and scribe to capture the feedback. At the
conclusion of the discussion groups, each participant was asked to review all of the needs identified by
each group and to identify their priorities with the placement of dots by their choices.
Once these needs were identified, they were all included in the community-wide survey, where each
respondent was asked to also prioritize their needs. The resulting needs and priorities were categorized
for each element.
In addition to the identification of needs through the comprehensive planning process, the Carrying
Capacity Study being developed concurrently also included the identification of needs and issues. These
needs and issues closely mirrored those identified through the comprehensive plan community feedback.
The specific carry capacity study needs and issues are shown below.
Carry Capacity Study Needs and Issues
In working with their advisory/stakeholder committee, the Carrying Capacity study also identified needs
and issues as part of the effort. Similar to the development of the goals, the needs and issues identified
align with those identified as part of the master planning process. The identified issues include:
• Traffic congestion
• Lack of access
• Mobility issues during special events and peak tourism season
• Incidents/Accidents on US 80
• Lack of shoulders
• Public safety
• Lack of parking during special events
• Emergencies and emergency evacuation
• Water withdrawal and ability to meet future needs
• Wastewater discharge
• Stormwater quality and quantity
• Handling solid waste
• Land use and build-out
• Growing older, retired population segment
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LAND USE ELEMENT
According the requirements set forth by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the land use
element is required for communities with “zoning or equivalent land development regulations that are
subject to the Zoning Procedures Law”. This land use element includes an assessment of the needs and
issues, as well as the identification of opportunities and strategies to address the identified needs and to
ensure the preservation and enhancement of each of the described character areas.
Needs and Issues
Land use and development patterns are a critical element in the City’s efforts to maintain and preserve
their quality of life and meet their vision and goals for the future. The needs and issues identified for the
land use and development patterns element include the following:
Maintain height limits
Growth limits
Compatible redevelopment with adjacent areas
Limit zoning variances
Zoning ordinance update
Impacts from down-zoning
Each of these needs and issues were considered within the specific character areas and in the
development of the strategies to address those needs.
Character Areas
In the previously adopted plan, the City of Tybee Island crafted future development strategies for the
identified character areas to address the needs affecting those areas. These previously identified
character areas formed the basis for the updated character areas.
Each of the character areas were carefully reviewed by through the Advisory Working Group and public
meetings. Based on the consensus of the community, the existing character areas were modified to
address the changing conditions. The updated character areas are displayed in Figure 3 and is also
included in the Appendices. The map of the character areas will be used by the City as the future land use
map and coordinated with the zoning map and used as a guide for future development. The
development codes for the city are currently under review and an update of the codes is included in the
Short Term Work Program.
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Figure 3. Character Areas
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Each of the character areas is described in detail, with the special and defining characteristics that the City
wishes to enhance and protect identified. Zoning classifications within each of the character areas has
also been identified and analyzed for their applicability to the character area.
Table 1 describes each of the zoning categories, including their purpose and permitted uses.
Table 1. City of Tybee Island Zoning
Zoning Category Purpose Permitted Uses
C-1: Beach Business Provide central locations for city
business and services to meet
the market needs of the city's
residents and visitors.
Apartments; condominiums; townhouses;
guest cottages; hotels/motels; time shares;
tourist homes; bed and breakfast inns;
single, two, three and four family
dwellings; apothecary shops; gift shops;
barber/beauty shops; finance, investment
and insurance offices; florist;
restaurants/concession stands; commercial
amusements; retail stores; public
structures. Uses permitted after special
review: lounges; package shops; dwellings
or structures for special events
C-2: Highway Business Provide central locations for city
business and services to meet
the market needs of the city's
residents and visitors
Service stations; restaurants/drive ins; gift
shops; motels; grocery stores; tourist
homes/bed and breakfast inns; parks,
playgrounds, recreation facilities;
professional/business offices; retail stores;
marinas; seafood warehouses, retail and
wholesale sales Uses permitted after
special review: lounges; package shops;
dwellings or structures for special events.
E-C: Environment
Conservation
Protect the ecologically
sensitive areas of the city and to
limit the active development to
those uses which are
compatible with natural limits
of the land
Growing of gardens; piers, docks, and
wharfs
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Zoning Category Purpose Permitted Uses
M-D: Maritime Purpose of this district shall
be to protect the character of
the commercial development
along Lazaretto Creek within
the city limits
Boat launching facilities; bait shops; retail
sale of boating provisions; aquaculture
projects; assembly hall/club/lounge; boat
building/repair; commercial
charter/sightseeing; commercial
fishing/crabbing; government buildings;
marina; recreational activities; passenger
cruise lines; private/community docks;
public utility structures; wholesale/retail
seafood sales/warehouses; seated
restaurant; watercraft rentals;
N-M: Neighborhood
Marina
Intended to be used for
neighborhood marina facilities
with a modest scale of
operation
Commercial land uses involving pleasure
and commercial watercraft, including boat
launching facilities; bait shops; retail sale
of boating provisions. Uses permitted
after special review: Lounges/package
shops; restaurants; watercraft/equipment
rental; watercraft sales/dry dock storage;
wholesale/retail seafood sales; machine
repair shops
P-C: Public
Conservation
To create an area or areas to be
conserved for public use, to
preserve areas established by
tradition and custom for public
use, and to prevent
development of these areas for
other than approved public
and/or municipal use
Parks-public, playgrounds; ball fields
and/or sports arenas, picnic facilities,
public schools, public libraries, public
parking and municipal
buildings/structures, other public uses as
approved by the governing body of the
city
PUD: Planned Unit
Development
The existing planned unit
development districts, at the
time of the adoption of the
ordinance from which this
section is derived, shall remain.
No further planned unit
development district shall be
created
Not Applicable
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Zoning Category Purpose Permitted Uses
R-1: Single Family
Residential
Established to minimize
development densities and to
provide for quiet livable, low-
density single family
neighborhoods; Character of
the development is oriented to
permanent residents
Single Family dwellings, non-habitable
accessory buildings; public utility
structures; home business offices; public
community buildings, libraries, recreation
centers and museums. Uses permitted
after special review: bed and breakfast,
residential; primary/secondary schools;
nursing homes; public
parks/neighborhood playgrounds;
churches; general education, including
kindergarten and day nurseries; guest
cottages; home occupations
R-1-B: Single Family
Residential
Provide a transition from R-1 to
higher density development
Uses permitted in R-1 with additional
density
R-2: one and Two
Family Residential
Provide for affordable
development of single-family
and duplex style development.
This district is intended for
medium density residential
neighborhoods which are quiet
and livable.
Uses permitted in R-1 and two family
dwellings. Uses permitted after special
review include those identified in R-1.
R-T: Residential
Tourist
Provide for areas where tourists
and residents are mixed.
Development in this district is
primarily residential; however,
limited accommodations are
made for the housing of the
tourist population visiting
overnight, weekends, weeks, or
extended periods
Uses permitted in R-2. Uses permitted
after special review: apartment houses
and condominiums exceeding two unites;
bed and breakfast inns; theater facilities or
houses that are historical in nature
C-1/SE: Zoning South
End Business Overlay
Provide central locations for city
business and services to meet
the market needs of the city's
residents and visitors
All commercial and multi-family residential
uses are permissible
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Zoning Category Purpose Permitted Uses
NG: Neighborhood
Grocery Store
Preserve what was previously an
existing non-conforming use
and to protect adjoining and
nearby properties from
intrusion of commercial
property and to further
preserve the residential
character of the area while
meeting the needs of the
community for a grocery store
Grocery store and parking; single family
residences
R-1: NEC: North End
Cultural Overlay
Promote the development of
properties in a manner that
promotes arts, cultural,
heritage, and educational
opportunities in conjunction
with recreational and light
commercial uses while
protecting surrounding
residential uses from adverse
impact
Municipal/public safety;
cultural/educational/historical facilities;
parks/open space; picnic
grounds/barbeque pits/ cooking facilities;
shelters/observations
decks/platforms/pavilions/storage
sheds/patios/restrooms; pedestrian and
bicycle walkways/trails; jogging trails;
publicly owned facilities operated under
lease or agreement with city
R-1/NEP: North End
Parks and Public
Overlay
Promote the development of
properties in a manner that
integrates public uses, open
space, municipal uses, and
recreational uses compatibly
into a residential area
Municipal/public safety; public
campgrounds; parks/open space;
shelters/observations
decks/platforms/pavilions/storage
sheds/patios/restrooms; pedestrian and
bicycle walkways/trails; jogging trails;
tennis courts; swimming pools
The character areas include the following:
Back River Neighborhood
Beaches
Beachfront Neighborhood
Coastal Marshlands
Commercial Gateway
Ft. Screven Historic District
Inland Cottage Neighborhood
Marshfront Neighborhood
North Beach/Maritime District
The Strand/Historic Downtown
South End Neighborhood
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Strategies Affecting All Areas
Specific development strategies were identified for each of the individual character areas and were
developed to preserve and enhance the existing character within the area. Development strategies that
were applicable to all of the character areas were also identified and include the following:
New development, redevelopment and restoration should be consistent with the existing
character of the area.
Enhance the pedestrian environment where feasible.
Historic structures should be preserved whenever possible.
Prioritize tree preservation to protect the scenic and habitat value of the area.
Encourage land uses, through clearly defined guidelines, that protect against stormwater
pollution including xeriscaping, pervious surfaces and erosion and sedimentation control.
Require the treatment of stormwater runoff quality and quantity prior to its discharge in the
marsh.
Limit housing density, size and height through zoning.
Adopt the wayfinding and directional signage plan created for the City and ensure consistency
throughout the island.
Encourage consistency with recommended design and architectural standards, as presented in
the City’s Desired Design Patterns & Architectural Styles Guidebook.
Restore and maintain the tree canopy.
Character Area: Back River Neighborhood
The Back River Neighborhood character area is a unique residential area with waterfront lots and beach
access along the Back River. Zoning consists of contains R -2 and N-M neighborhood marina. In addition
to the residential use, low impact commercial service uses exist in this neighborhood.
Characteristics
Unique residential neighborhood
Waterfront lots
Beach access along the Back River
Public access to water
Scenic views
Low impact commercial service uses
Development Strategies
The boat ramp, marina and fishing pier are essential elements of the neighborhood and should be
preserved.
Work with DNR to limit docks that impede public passage along the beach.
Encourage safer pedestrian mobility.
Preserve historic structures whenever possible.
Provide appropriate incentives for historic restoration projects.
Preserve the scenic value of the area.
Enforce local ordinances related to noise and parking.
Preserve and enhance public access to beaches and waterways.
Implement recommendations of the Beach management Plan.
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-9
Character Area: Beaches
A primary and critical Tybee Island character area, the Beaches character area consists of the undeveloped,
environmentally sensitive beachfront and dune system. C-1, R-1, and R-2 zoning exist within the Beaches
character area with close proximity to the recreational opportunities provided by the beaches.
Characteristics
Undeveloped
Natural habitats and environmentally sensitive
Beachfront and dune system
Recreational opportunities
Protection is critical to the community
Development Strategies
Explore ways to expand and strengthen the dune system in accordance with the Beach
Management Plan.
Consider impacts of beach maintenance activities on the north beach area.
Educate the public and city employees on how to reduce the impact of their activities on the
beach and dune system.
Develop strategies to better address litter and toxic materials, such as plastics and cigarette
butts, on the beach and maintain clean beaches.
Property, both public and private, should be managed to preserve a healthy beach and dune
system.
Prohibit any development on the beach or dune system.
Encourage preservation of the buffer between development and the beach/dune system
through development regulations.
Utilize dune crossing boardwalks to provide education on the beach/dune system, local flora
and fauna, and natural resources protection.
Support projects enhancing wildlife habitats.
Promote the area as a recreation area and tourist destination.
Preserve the greenspace adjacent to beaches and dunes.
Maintain beach access dune crossing with the least amount of impact to the dune system
Investigate a plan to reinstall some portion of the Strand boardwalk along the beachfront
adjacent to the pavilion.
Work with local, state, and federal agencies to monitor the depth of the South Channel and
mitigate effect of the channel on the beaches.
Implement recommendations of the Beach Management Plan.
Develop a signage system identifying dune crossing boardwalk entrances from the beach.
Install more public restrooms.
Character Area: Beachfront Neighborhood
The Beachfront Neighborhood to the east of Butler Avenue is exclusively R-2 zoning, with single family,
multi family, and duplex housing types. The area is characterized by wide streets with on street parking
and old growth trees supplemented by side alleys. Public and private beach access are available.
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Characteristics
Neighborhood east of Butler Avenue
Mix of housing types
o Single family
o Duplex
o Multi-family
Old growth trees
On street parking
Wide streets
Alleys
Public/private beach access
Development Strategies
Historic structures should be preserved whenever possible.
Enhance the pedestrian environment where feasible.
Preserve old growth trees.
Preserve and maintain public beach access and enhance when necessary.
Do not allow intrusion of commercial uses.
Preserve the low-density character of the area.
Encourage preservation of the large historic beach to Butler Ave. lots.
Character Area: Coastal Marshlands
The Coastal Marshlands character area encompasses environmentally sensitive undeveloped natural land
not suitable for development. The marshlands buffer against flooding and erosion and provide
marine/wildlife habitat as well as natural recreational opportunities. The zoning is exclusively E-C.
Characteristics
Undeveloped natural land
Environmentally sensitive areas
Not suitable for development
Marine/wildlife habitat
Buffer against flooding and erosion and offer
Natural recreational opportunities
Development Strategies
Ensure that City maintenance and landscaping activities, including the application of landscaping
chemicals, do not adversely affect the marsh.
Property should be maintained in a natural state.
Restrict development and encroachment into this area.
Promote the use of conservation easements to protect marshland in private ownership (i.e., King’s
Grants).
Support the use of these areas for shellfish aquaculture as appropriate.
Promote areas as eco-tourism and low impact recreation destinations.
Encourage oyster reef restoration through established programs.
Enforce the City’s Marsh Buffer Ordinance to mitigate development impacts.
Restrict or discourage uses adjacent to this area that could contribute to water pollution.
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Erosion and sedimentation control should be enfor ced adjacent to this area.
Improve coordination with GDOT on clearing, cutting, and use of landscaping chemicals adjacent
to or within the marsh areas associated with transportation projects.
Enforce existing ordinance prohibiting billboards within or adjacent to marshlands and views of
the marsh.
Character Area: Commercial Gateway
Previously the “Arts, Eats, Eco-Business Corridor,” the Commercial Gateway Character Area functions as an
activity center and serves as the commercial gateway for the City. Zoning classifications are C-1, C-2, R-1,
R-1-B, R-T, and R-2. The mix of neighborhood commercial uses include shopping, crafts, restaurants, and
eco-tourism.
Characteristics
Previously “Arts, Eats, Eco-Business Corridor”
Serves as commercial gateway
Functions as an activity center
Existing residential
Mix of neighborhood commercial uses
o Shopping
o Crafts
o Restaurants
o Eco-tourism
Development Strategies
Encourage commercial and mixed use development and redevelopment along the US 80
commercial corridor.
Discourage down-zoning within the US 80 commercial corridor.
Establish standards for a maximum percentage of residential use on a per parcel basis to
encourage mixed use.
Enhance pedestrian movements with streetscape improvements.
Support the continued development of the Tybee Island bikeway including bike lanes and multi-
use trails.
Allow for an appropriate mix of retail, residential, and tourism-related uses consistent with the
Plan vision.
Implement traffic calming measures and parking improvements.
Establish noise and sight buffers between commercial uses and adjacent residential areas.
Review parking requirements to ensure they are not prohibitive to future commercial
development.
Consider the use of City’s unopened ROW’s to provide additional public parking.
Character Area: Ft. Screven Historic District
Previously part of North Beach Neighborhood, the Fort Screven Historic District includes Officers Row and
all of Ft. Screven, which represents significant historic, cultural and natural resources. Varied uses include
new, larger scale development, traditional cottages, townhomes/condominiums, public uses/parks,
historic sites, narrow streets, street trees, public parking. Zoning includes R-1, R-2, R-T, R1/NEC, P-C, and
PUD.
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Characteristics
Previously part of North Beach Neighborhood
Includes Officers Row and all of Ft. Screven
Significant historic, cultural and natural resources, including historic district designation
Uses include
o New, larger scale development
o Traditional cottages
o Townhomes/Condos
o Public uses/parks
o Historic sites
o Narrow streets
o Street trees
o Public parking
Development Strategies
Establish standards and guidelines for signage.
Provide signage for landmarks and commercial businesses.
Preserve or restore historic structures whenever possible.
Provide appropriate incentives for historic restoration projects.
Ensure continued preservation of old growth trees, parks, and greenspace.
Support an improved bicycle and pedestrian environment with connected facilities.
Consider adoption of architectural standards for historic structures.
Character Area: Inland Cottage Neighborhood
This traditional neighborhood West of Butler consists of R-2, NG and P-C zoning characterized by a grid
of narrow, tree lined streets. Housing includes permanent residences and rental homes, along with multi-
family. Both traditional historic cottages and large new residential homes are found here. Other uses
include low density commercial and grocery, public/government buildings, and parks.
Characteristics
Narrow, tree lined streets
Grid pattern
Permanent residences and rental homes
Multi-family
Parks
Low impact commercial establishments and grocery
Public/Gov’t buildings
Mix of traditional/historic cottage homes
Large new residential homes.
Alternative transportation - bike path
Development Strategies
Permit only compatible uses including low density residential, public/institutional and low impact
commercial.
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-13
Implement streetscape improvements to improve the pedestrian/bicycle environment and
enhance safety and mobility.
Preserve/restore historic structures whenever possible.
Provide appropriate incentives for historic restoration projects.
Continue to address drainage issues in this area.
Develop strategies to address illegal parking on private and public property in this area.
Preserve the residential character of this neighborhood.
Character Area: Marshfront Neighborhood
Along the marshfront exist residential uses of various ages, sprinkled with intermittent commercial uses.
Zoning classifications area R-1, R-1-B, R-2, and E-C. Providing natural habitat, scenic views, and access to
the water via docks and creeks, natural resources here require special consideration.
Characteristics
Fronted by coastal marshlands
Wide mix of new and old residential development
Sporadic commercial uses
Many lots contain water access via creeks
Land use and natural resource protection is of special
consideration
Development Strategies
Permit only uses compatible with area character.
Permit only uses that will not adversely affect/impact the marsh environment.
Enforce marsh buffer ordinance within the area.
Prioritize tree preservation to protect the scenic and habitat value of the area.
Character Area: North Beach/Maritime District
The North Beach/Maritime District merges three previous areas: North Beach, Lazaretto Creek and Historic
Battery. This multifaceted area houses R-1, R-2, R-1-B, R1/NEC, R-T, E-C, PUD, and M-D zoning. Uses
include commercial, recreational, campground, public/government uses and buildings, and a mix of
residential styles and homes set on narrow streets. In addition to these developed portions, the area also
includes extensive undeveloped environmentally sensitive areas with multi-use trails and public water
access.
Characteristics
Previously North Beach, Lazaretto Creek and Historic Battery
Developed and undeveloped
Environmentally sensitive areas
Public water access
Current uses
o Commercial, recreational uses and campground
o Mix of residential styles and homes
o Public/Gov’t uses and buildings
o Narrow streets
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o Multi-use trails
Development Strategies
Establish standards and design guidelines for signage in keeping with island character.
Allow for the development of retail, restaurants and services for seasonal and year round
populations.
Improve the pedestrian and bicycle environment.
Discourage down-zoning from commercial to residential in the Lazaretto Creek area and maintain
commercial dock usage.
Improve street conditions through grading improvements.
Provide signage for landmarks and commercial establishments.
Preserve/restore historic structures whenever possible.
Provide appropriate incentives for historic restoration projects.
Ensure preservation of old growth trees, parks and greenspace.
Support development of the Tybee Island bikeway, including bike lanes and multi-use trails.
Consider the potential for additional parking within this area with transportation to other areas of
the Island.
Facilitate public water access where appropriate and on public property.
Explore opportunities to preserve historic battery, and public access to those batteries, in this
area.
Character Area: The Strand/Historic Downtown District
Previously known as The Strand/Downtown and 17th Street Neighborhood, this district is the traditional
“Main Street” of Tybee Island. The focal point for residents and visitors, this area of C-1, C1/SE and R-1
zoning has significant pedestrian activity. The mix of uses include shopping, restaurants, hotels/lodging,
museums/public education, pavilion, and public parking. Single-family, multi-family, and vacation rentals
form the residential uses.
Characteristics
Previously The Strand/Downtown and 17th Street
Neighborhood
Traditional “Main Street”
Focal point for residents and visitors
Mix of uses
o Shopping, Restaurants, Hotels/lodging,
Museums/public education, Pavilion
o Public parking
Significant pedestrian activity
Mix of residential uses
o Single family
o Multi-family
o Vacation rentals
Development Strategies
Future development and redevelopment should be very pedestrian oriented with safe
connections to adjacent neighborhoods and commercial areas.
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-15
Promote mixed densities of residential development, including upstairs residential over
commercial.
Encourage mixed uses to provide for the daily needs of residents and tourists.
Commercial uses should be low-intensity and consistent with the existing character.
Uses and zoning should provide a transition from the South End neighborhood.
Add recreational uses within the area.
Beautification and façade improvement projects should be implemented to imp rove area
aesthetics.
Encourage the preservation, restoration and adaptive reuse of historic structures through
incentives.
Encourage development/redevelopment of existing vacant properties and under -utilized
structures.
Consider the development of a Convention Center is association with lodging establishments.
Develop a plan to re-install elements of the boardwalk.
Identify locations for additional parking or garage.
Preserve/retain buildings that can house small businesses.
Look for opportunities to ease congestion and improve traffic flow within the City’s road network.
Install a sidewalk on 18th street.
Address trash and litter issues in this area.
Assess traffic flow and transportation issues on the narrow lanes within this district.
Consider feasibility of a transfer of development rights program to allow for more dense
development and higher impact land uses in this area, and reduce those types of uses in other
areas.
Discourage down-zoning within this area.
Improve the availability and accessibility of public services and amenities in this area.
Character Area: South End Neighborhood
Located close to the South End beach and The Strand, this area has public beach access and parking.
Zoning is R-2. The mix of residential uses include a growing number of vacation/seasonal rentals, single
family, and duplex.
Characteristics
Mix of residential uses
o Growing number of vacation/seasonal rentals
o Single family
o Duplex
Proximity to the South End beach and The Strand
Development Strategies
Future development and redevelopment should be pedestrian oriented with safe connections to
adjacent neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Preserve or restore historic structures whenever possible.
Continue implementation of improvements to enhance/encourage pedestrian safety and mobility.
Develop strategies to address illegal parking on private and public property in this area.
Preserve the residential character of this neighborhood.
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-16
Coordination with Previous Efforts
In 2008, the City of Tybee Island completed the Desired Design Patterns and Architectural Styles as part of
the master planning effort. These guidelines, included in the Appendix, provide desired styles and design
patterns for various types of residential and commercial uses, as well as public spaces. The matrix below
provides a cross-reference for each of the character areas and the corresponding design guidelines.
Character Area Applicable Design Patterns and Guidelines
Back River Neighborhood
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Public Open Spaces
Beaches N/A
Beachfront Neighborhood
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
Public Open Spaces
Coastal Marshlands N/A
Commercial Gateway
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
Highway 80 Commercial
Ft. Screven Historic District
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
Public Open Spaces
Inland Cottage Neighborhood
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
Public Open Spaces
Marshfront Neighborhood
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Public Open Spaces
North Beach/Maritime District
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
Highway 80 Commercial
Maritime Commercial
Public Open Spaces
The Strand/Historic Downtown District Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
The Strand Commercial
Public Open Spaces
South End Neighborhood
Residential Redevelopment and Restoration
New Residential Development
Duplex and Multi-family Residential Development
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-17
TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
The transportation element of the comprehensive plan is also a required element by the Georgia
Department of Community Affairs. The City of Tybee Island is within the metropolitan planning area for
the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO). The City of Tybee Island
participates both through the Technical Coordinating Committee and as a member of the MPO Policy
Committee.
Data Analysis
As a member of the CORE MPO, the City of Tybee Island works through the MPO process on major
transportation issues. The long range Metropolitan Transportation Plan for the MPO includes any projects
on Tybee that incorporates the expenditure of fed eral funds. The MPO also has a long range Non-
Motorized Plan which includes Tybee. The coordination and participation with the MPO is a critical
function for the City of Tybee Island in addressing their major transportation needs.
Road Network
The City of Tybee Island has a single roadway leading onto/off the Island. This roadway, US 80, is
currently two lanes with an intermittent passing lane for both east and westbound traffic. US 80 is the
only facility on Tybee that is under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
With the City included in the MPO area, there is a travel demand model that includes US 80. The travel
demand model depicts the existing traffic based on the 2010 socio -economic data obtained from the US
Census. This data includes both population and employment. The existing conditions show that US 80 is
currently operating at a Level of Service A, which means on the average, there are no congested
conditions. The future conditions, projected to 2040, show the same expected Level of Service.
However, the model does not identify the seasonal conditions which has significant impacts on the City.
As the summer population swells, the congestion correspondingly increases. This congestion is evidenced
even more on holidays, such as July 4th, when the traffic delays can approach extreme.
US 80 also experiences tidal flooding in its lower portions during king tides. The incidence of this
flooding is becoming more frequent and is anticipated to continue to incr ease. In addition to the
flooding issue, the facility also includes two bridges (Bull River and Lazaretto Creek) that are two lane
structures with no shoulders. When a crash occurs on the bridges, or on the two lane sections of the
roadway, the access on and off the Island is restricted until the accident is cleared. There are also no
pedestrian or bicycle facilities along the roadway or on the bridges, causing a safety hazard for users.
The CORE MPO currently have a project underway to address the Bull River and Lazaretto Creek bridges,
adding standard shoulders/emergency lanes, as well as raising the roadway to address the flooding. This
project, as well as future projects is critical for the residents of Tybee, as US 80 is the only facility providing
access to the island and maintaining its viability is critical in evacuation scenarios.
The remainder of the roadway network on Tybee Island are local streets, maintained by the City.
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Alternative Modes: Bicycle and Pedestrian
With the resort nature of the City of Tybee Island, there are numerous bicyclists and pedestrians, both
local and tourists and the City has a long-standing commitment to the provision of a connected bicycle
and pedestrian network, providing access to activity centers and amenities and providing safe and
pleasant alternatives to vehicular use. The City works closely with the CORE MPO on the implementation
of trails and greenways, as well as coordinating with GDOT on the implementation of pedestrian safety
measures.
The City has recently installed clearly marked pedestrian crossings along US 80/Butler Avenue, including
pedestrian activated signals and pedestrian refuges to increase safety. In addition, the City has recently
installed pedestrian facilities, with marked crosswalks a nd sidewalks on numerous local streets. The map
shown in Figure 4 shows the designated bicycle trails and pedestrian crossings. The City also has the
Marsh Hen Trail project currently under development and is utilizing funding through the CORE MPO.
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Figure 4. Tybee Island Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-20
Parking
The City of Tybee Island owns and operates parking facilities on both the south and north ends of the
island, providing visitors and residents with parking and access to the beaches. In addition, on-street
parking is allowed in designated spots. These parking facilities are pay to park, with the City collecting the
resulting revenues. The need for parking, as with traffic congestion, peaks during the summer season with
the large number of tourists visiting the island. The City does monitor parking during the peak season
and provides information to tourists and visitors on the availability of parking in specific locations.
Railroads/Trucking/Port Facilities/Airports
As a resort community, there are no railroads serving Tybee Island. The nearest airport facility is the
Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport located west of Savannah. Freight movement is not prevalent
on Tybee, other than service vehicles. The Georgia Ports Authority terminals do not impact the surface
transportation system on Tybee.
Transportation and Land Use Connection
The CORE MPO understands the need for the integration of transportation and land use and their related
impacts and as an MPO member, the City of Tybee Island is also committed to the integration of the two
elements. The MPO, as part of their long range planning process, recently adopted a Thoroughfare Plan,
developed in conjunction with its member governments. This plan, which was fully coordinated with the
Non-Motorized Plan is intended to
• Increase accessibility and mobility
• Promote safe and efficient travel for all users
• Support local development and land use goals, promoting a sense of place through complete
streets and context sensitive design approaches
The thoroughfare types are defined both by their function, as well as by the context of the area the facility
serves. This combination of transportation function with the character of the adjacent areas, defines the
parameters for the facility and incorporates the most appropriate design elements to serve both the
transportation needs and the adjacent land uses.
Needs and Issues
Through the community input and participation process, combined with the data analysis, the nee ds and
issues relating to transportation both within and onto the Island were identified. These issues include:
Needed improvements to US 80
Needed improvements to bicycle and pedestrian routes and connections
Parking
Traffic Congestion, particularly seasonal traffic
Opportunities/Strategies
A wide array of strategies were identified to address the needs and to take advantage of existing
opportunities. These opportunities and strategies include:
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• Work with the Coastal Region MPO and GDOT on planned and future improvements, including
the exploration of alternative means of transportation on and off the Island
• Document issues/events to substantiate funding requests
• In coordination with GDOT, explore opportunities for round-abouts at intersections, including US
80/McKenzie, US 80/Estill Hammock Rd, and Butler/Tybrisa
• Explore various funding opportunities, such as grant programs and the Transportation
Alternatives Program to leverage local funding for implementation
• Identify areas in need of pedestrian facilities or in need of upgrading existing pedestrian facilities
and strategies to address the identified needs
• Identify appropriate areas and types of additional parking facilities, specifically in the North Beach
area
• Explore opportunities to incorporate mix of uses with potential additional parking
• Develop an additional parking lot in C-2 on city owned easement
• Explore the potential for a multi-use parking garage in C-1 to ease visitor intrusion into residential
neighborhoods, including an assessment of recent traffic counts
• Lessen parking requirements for new businesses to encourage commercial use of C-2 properties
• Develop a parking fee structure that maximizes income opportunities based on peak season and
times.
• Coordinate with local officials and agencies to provide assistance with seasonal traffic, particularly
during events
• Identify strategies to minimize traffic impacts on residential streets
Consistency with Goals
The table below depicts the consistency of the identified opportunities/strategies in meeting the
established goals for transportation.
GOAL: Provide for and encourage the use of transportation alternatives, including bike, pedestrian, golf
carts and public transportation.
• Explore various funding opportunities, such as grant programs and the Transportation
Alternatives Program to leverage local funding for implementation
• Identify areas in need of pedestrian facilities or in need of upgrading existing pedestrian
facilities and strategies to address the identified needs
GOAL: Promote and encourage transportation safety, parking, and traffic solutions for Tybee including
US 80 and its bridge infrastructure
• Work with the Coastal Region MPO and GDOT on planned and future improvements, including
the exploration of alternative means of transportation on and off the Island
• Document issues/events to substantiate funding requests
• In coordination with GDOT, explore opportunities for round-abouts at intersections, including
US 80/McKenzie, US 80/Estill Hammock Rd, and Butler/Tybrisa
• Identify appropriate areas and types of additional parking facilities, specifically in the North
Beach area
• Explore opportunities to incorporate mix of uses with potential additional parking
• Develop an additional parking lot in C-2 on city owned easement
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• Lessen parking requirements for new businesses to encourage commercial use of C -2
properties
• Explore the potential for a multi-use parking garage in C-1 to ease visitor intrusion into
residential neighborhoods, including an assessment of recent traffic counts
• Develop a parking fee structure that maximizes income opportunities based on peak season
and times.
• Coordinate with local officials and agencies to provide assistance with seasonal traffic,
particularly during events
• Identify strategies to minimize traffic impacts on residential streets
HOUSING ELEMENT
The housing element is a requirement for the Comprehensive Plan. Housing availability and affordability
are important pieces to the viability and sustainability of the community and a stable, year-round
population.
Data Analysis
Population
There are three population groups on Tybee Island that must be considered within any planning
assessment. These groups include:
Resident Population: Year-round homeowners and long-term rentals
Overnight Population: Short-term rentals and second homeowner population, in addition to the
resident population
Daytime Population: Day-trippers, in addition to the resident and overnight population
The 2010 US Census shows that the City of Tybee Island had a populati on of 2,990, which is a decrease
from the 2000 Census population of 3,392. This population has a median age of 53.2 years. While the
resident population showed a decrease, the total number of housing units increased over the same time
period. The decrease in population and permanently occupied units, combined with the increase in the
total housing units, results in a significant increase in the number of units not occupied by permanent
residents. According to the 2010 Census, approximately 60% of the housing units are not occupied by
permanent residents. Table 2 displays the housing occupancy characteristics.
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Table 2. Housing Occupancy Characteristics
Housing Unit Type 2000 Percent
2000
2010 Percent
2010
Percent
Change
Total Housing Units 2,696 -- 3,366 -- 24.9%
Occupied Housing Units 1,568 58.2% 1,360 40.4% -13.3%
Owner-Occupied 1,078 40.0% 918 27.3% -14.8%
Renter-Occupied 490 18.2% 442 13.1% -9.8%
Vacant Housing Units 1,128 41.8% 2,006 59.6% 77.8%
Seasonal, Recreational,
Occasional Use
676 25.1% 1,473 43.8% 117.9%
For Rent/For Sale/Other 452 16.8% 533 15.8% 17.9%
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Tybee Island’s prominence as a vacation destination has increased from a state level to the national level
over the last decade. Tourism is a major economic driver for the City of Tybee Island and it is critical that
the impacts of the huge seasonal growth in population during the tourist season be understood. This
visitor population and peak usage burdens the City’s services and infrastructure.
In order to quantify the peak season population and the demands, the Carrying Capacity Study developed
an estimate of the overnight population based on 2010 Census data and the City’s Oc cupational Tax
records for short term vacation rentals and hotel/motels. The total number of short term rental
opportunities is 1,738, which also includes the campsites in the City operated RV campground. To
estimate the overnight population associated with the short term rentals, data from previous studies,
including the Local Option Sales Tax Population Study (2013) and the City of Tybee Island Tourism Study
(2014) were referenced. It is important to note that the overnight populations vary by type of unit, for
example, short term vacation rental homes are typically used by families and hotel/motel units serve fewer
people. Based on the data, an average number of people per rental unit was calculated for the various
unit types. The short term rental unit occupancy calculation shows a total maximum rental population of
7,146. Adding the maximum short term rental population to the resident population, estimated at 3,082
in 2014, results in a maximum overnight population of 10,228 1. This maximum overnight population does
not include the second home owners who do not rent their property, but use as a vacation spot. Based
on the Census data and the Tybee Island Occupational Tax database, the estimated second home
maximum overnight population is 4,030, which added to the maximum overnight population and
permanent resident population, brings the total maximum overnight population to 14,258.
In addition to the overnight and resident population, Tybee also experiences an increase in daytime
population due to visitors accessing the beach for the day. This added daytime population also burdens
the City of Tybee Island’s infrastructure and services. In order to quantify the daytime population, several
previous reports were reviewed as part of the Carrying Capacity Study. These studies/reports include:
1 City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment, 2016
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-24
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study (2010)
Tybee Island Wave Ecology and The Highway 80 Challenge (2011)
City of Tybee Island Tourism Study (2014)
City of Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Study (2016)
Figure 5 displays the average monthly, weekend and peak day one way trips from May, 2014 through
September, 2015.
Figure 5. One Way Trips (May 2014 – September 2015)
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Table 3 provides a summary of the population.
Table 3. Population Summary
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Housing Adequacy, Types and Mix
According to the US Census estimates (2014), there are a total of 3,393 housing units within Tybee Island
of which 40.4% are occupied. The median value of the owner occupied homes is $356,300. The remaining
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
One-Way Trips
Month Average Weekend Day Average Peak Day
Population Metric Population
Resident Population (2014, est.) 3,082
Annual Average Overnight Population 7,223
Peak July Overnight Population1 10,168
Maximum Overnight Population2 14,198
Annual Average Daytime Population 13,453
Peak Daytime Population 30,000 +
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-25
units are for rent, for sale, sold but not occupied and for seasonal use. Table 4 displays the units within
the housing structures.
Table 4. Housing Units
Type of Housing Unit Estimate Percent
1 unit detached 1,768 52.1%
1-unit attached 235 6.9%
2 units 221 6.5%
3-4 units 271 8.0%
5-9 units 278 8.2%
10-19 units 171 5.0%
20+ units 449 13.2%
Source: US Census Estimates 2014
The majority of Tybee Island has already been developed and includes a mix of housing types, including
single family and multi-family. The potential for residential growth is centered on the development of
existing residential parcels through subdivision. Based on the recent development activity, the trend is in
subdivisions of parcels zoned R-2, which also contains the majority of the undeveloped residential
property. The R-2 category allows for one and two family residential units and provides a transition in
density between the single family R-1 zoning to the commercial zoning. According to the Carrying
Capacity Study, approximately 40% of Tybee Island is currently zone R-2, of which the majority is in single
family use. Within the R-2 category, there are 1,694 parcels of which approximately 80% are currently
developed. Table 5 depicts the number of R-2 parcels and residential units.
Table 5. Number of R-2 Parcels and Residential Units
Category Number of R-2 Parcels Number of Units
Single Family 1,337 1,337
Duplex 85 170
Non-Residential 11 0
Undeveloped 261 0
Total 1,694 1,507
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Affordable Housing
According to the US Census 2014 estimates, there are 342 occupied units paying monthly rent. The
monthly rental fees ranges from a low of $500 - $749 per month (2.6%), to $1,500 or greater per month
(12.0%). The majority of the rental property fees range from $750 - $999 per month (36.5%) to $1,000 -
$1,499 per month (48.8%). The median rent per month is $1,117. A review of the gross rent as a
percentage of household income shows that 57.9% of the occupied units are paying 35% or more of the
monthly household income. In comparison, in 2010, only 26.9% of the renters paid 35% or more of their
household income in rent. The escalating popularity of Tybee Island, the number of property conversions
to short term rental units, and the lack of development potential has led to increased housing
expenditures.
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-26
Needs/Issues
Through the community input and participation process, combined with the data analysis, the needs and
issues relating to housing were identified. These issues include:
• Affordable/workforce housing
• Adverse impacts on housing options with increasing conversion to short term rental properties
• Loss of year round residents especially those with children due to the high cost of living
Opportunities/Strategies
Opportunities and strategies were identified through the analysis and the community input process to
address the needs and take advantage of the opportunities. These opportunities and strategies include:
• Encourage a variety of housing types with a range of costs
• Investigate the approaches of other communities and develop incentive programs for the
provision of affordable housing appropriate for Tybee
• Allow for multi-use upstairs rentals in commercial areas that provide affordable year-round
housing
• Investigate the feasibility of a rent subsidy program so critical city personnel (police, fire, etc.) can
live on the Island
• Review and assess the number of short-term rental properties and impacts on adjacent
properties, including parking, noise and numbers of tenants
• Require licensing for vacation rentals and minimize adverse impacts on Island residents
• Investigate the need to provide services and facilities for an older, retired population
• Identify needed services that are lacking for year-round residents
Consistency with Goals
The table below depicts the consistency of the identified opportunities/strategies in meeting th e
established goals for housing.
GOAL: Encourage a range of housing sizes, costs, and densities to meet the diverse needs of the
population
• Encourage a variety of housing types with a range of costs
• Investigate the approaches of other communities and develop incentive programs for the
provision of affordable housing appropriate for Tybee
• Allow for multi-use upstairs rentals in commercial areas that provide affordable year-round
housing
• Investigate the feasibility of a rent subsidy program so critical city personnel (police, fire, etc.)
can live on the Island
• Review and assess the number of short-term rental properties and impacts on adjacent
properties, including parking, noise and numbers of tenants
• Require licensing for vacation rentals and minimize adverse impacts on Island residents
• Investigate the need to provide services and facilities for an older, retired population
• Identify needed services that are lacking for year-round residents
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-27
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ELEMENT
The City of Tybee Island has long held its unique character and place among coastal cities along the
southern Atlantic coast. The City and its residents have been very careful in how their community
developed and have taken measures to ensure that its unique coastal character remains intact. While
growth is inevitable, the City of Tybee Island recognized the importance of community preservation and
their special sense of place in the planning process and has included a Community Preservation element
as part of the comprehensive plan.
Data Analysis
As a coastal barrier island, the City of Tybee Island is home to a unique set of natural resources, including
the ocean and tidal creeks, as well as fresh water ponds. Significant coastal marshlands exist and along
with the beaches, comprise approximately 35% of the land area. These areas are not only significant
environmental resources, but are also the foundation for the economy of the City.
In addition to the significant presence of natural resources, the City is also home to diverse historic and
cultural resources. There are nationally designated historic districts on the Island, as well as the
consideration of locally designated districts. Major historic resources include the Old Tybee Lighthouse,
Fort Screven Museum and many civil war batteries. The Historic Tybee Post Theater, constructed in 1930
by the US Army for Fort Screven, was one of the first movie theaters in the state that had the capability of
showing talking movies. Restoration of the historic theater was completed in 2015. The Tybee pavilion is
also significant community resource and gathering place. A number of historic homes exist on the Island,
many of which display unique architectural styles that have been utilized over the years. Many of the
houses have been restored and are a significant part of the Tybee character.
Needs/Issues
Through the participation process and data analysis, the needs and issues focused on the preservation of
the community, its unique sense of place, and the quality of life for residents and visitors. The
needs/issues identified include:
• Historic preservation and zones
• Identification and protection of historic properties
• Maintaining unique Tybee sense of place
• Need for a growth management vision
• Protecting the interests of full time residents balanced with tourism
Opportunities/Strategies
Opportunities and strategies were identified in conjunction with the community members to take
advantage of existing opportunities and strategies to address the identified needs. These opportunities
and strategies include:
• Review and assess the current historic preservation ordinance and update as needed
N E E D S A N D O P P O R T U N I T I E S
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-28
• Establish incentives for restoration projects
• Coordinate with appropriate agencies and historic preservation groups to identify funding for
preservation projects
• Historic Preservation and zones and consideration of establishing architectural standards for
historic structures
• Protect the existing character of the island by limiting the mass, scale, density and height
according to established ordinances
• Provide facilities and services needed by tourists and residents while lessening the impacts of
tourism on permanent island residents
• Provide showers at dune crossovers if/when the deep well treatment facility is completed
• Incorporate the results of the carrying capacity study into regulations to ensure growth does not
outpace resources and infrastructure
• Enforce existing rules through cart and beach patrols with possible surveillance video in problem
areas
• Explore the potential for a multi-use parking garage in C-1 to ease visitor intrusion into residential
neighborhoods, including an assessment of recent traffic counts
• Explore the feasibility of Transfer of Development Rights for the implementation of a parking
garage in exchange for public park or greenspace
• Actively enforce existing ordinance violations for short term rentals
Consistency with Goals
The table below depicts the consistency of the identified opportunities/strategies in meeting the
established goals for community preservation.
GOAL: Maintain and preserve our traditional community character and sense of place
• Enforce existing rules through cart and beach patrols with possible surveillance video in
problem areas
• Actively enforce existing ordinance violations for short term rentals by warning for first offense
and loss of license for second offense
• Protect the existing character of the island by limiting the mass, scale, density and height
according to established ordinances
GOAL: Maintain, preserve and enhance our historic and cultural resources
• Review and assess the current historic preservation ordinance and update as needed
• Establish incentives for restoration projects
• Coordinate with appropriate agencies and historic preservation groups to identify funding for
preservation projects
• Historic Preservation and zones
• Consider establishing architectural standards for historic structures
GOAL: Maintain, preserve and enhance our community open spaces, such as parks, greenbelts, and
wildlife corridors
• Explore the feasibility of Transfer of Development Rights for the implementation of a parking
garage in exchange for public park or greenspace
N E E D S A N D O P P O R T U N I T I E S
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-29
GOAL: Develop coastal hazard preparedness, or crisis management responses for hurricane
preparedness and recovery from a financial, physical, and safety perspective
• Incorporate the results of the carrying capacity study into regulations to ensure growth does
not outpace resources and infrastructure
GOAL: Support non-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life, economy and culture of the
island
GOAL: Encourage a range of educational and enrichment opportunities within the community.
• Provide facilities and services needed by tourists and residents while lessening the impacts of
tourism on permanent island residents
GOAL: Encourage and support recreational opportunities and amenities, including the existing
campground.
• Provide showers at dune crossovers if/when the deep well treatment facility is completed
SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT
The City of Tybee Island is a leader in the area of environmental preservation and sustainability.
Recognizing the need to understand growth and the impacts on the facilities and services, particularly
with water/wastewater and impacts on the environment, the City undertook a Carrying Capacity Study to
identify the impacts, needs and issues. With its coastal location and already feeling the impacts from
climate change through increased flooding of coastal areas, the City has also conducted a sea level rise
study, with which the Carrying Capacity Study coordinated. With its sensitive and vulnerable location, the
community identified sustainability as a critical element in the development of the comprehensive plan.
This sustainability element encompasses facilities and infrastructure, such as water/wastewater, as well as
disaster preparedness and the development of strategies to ensure growth does not exceed the capacity
to provide necessary services. This sustainability element also includes a focus on economic sustainability
and viability for the permanent and long-term residents, as well as visitors and part-time residents.
Data Analysis
Water
The City of Tybee Island’s water supply system includes three water withdrawal wells that access water
from the Upper Floridan Aquifer. The city is currently permitted to withdraw an annual average of 0.916
million gallons per day, with a month average of 1.6 million gallons per day, which allows for the peak
usage in the summer tourist season.2
As part of the Carrying Capacity Study, the per capita water usage for 2015 was calculated for the City.
The calculation methodology included using the daily average water usage for the months of January only
from 2010 to 2014 to reduce water usage attributed to tourism, commercial and irrigation use. This
number was then divided by the minimum overnight population that was calculated for January. The
resulting per capita water usage is 117 gallons per day. In an effort to understand and document the
2
City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment, 2016
N E E D S A N D O P P O R T U N I T I E S
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-30
impacts associated with the summer overnight population, a review of the City’s monthly average water
usage was conducted. The results of this review are shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6. Monthly Water Withdrawal
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
The peak summer month is July and there is a significant peak in water usage that consistently appears
over the five year period.
Tybee Island’s water withdrawal permit allows a monthly average of 1.6 million gallons per day. During
the summer months, the maximum daily withdrawal limits have been exceeded due to the increased
populations during peak season; however, the monthly daily average was within the limits of the water
withdrawal permit. Although the City has not exceeded its annual average permit limits, the projected
water usage exceeds the proposed annual average limits for 2025.
The City’s water distribution system is relatively new, with an estimated 80% of the system less than 20
years old. The location of the well pump houses were found to be vulnerable to flooding, storm surge
and sea level rise as part of the Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Study.
With the current limits on the water supply source of the Upper Floridan Aquifer, the City is working in
partnership with the State of Georgia to install and test a Cretaceous well that will provide an alternative
waster source.3 Although the work is not yet completed, it is expected that the well will produce sufficient
water for the projected annual needs. However, the associated operational, capital and treatment costs
will have direct and major impacts on existing water rates.
3 City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment, 2016
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
2
Jan-10Mar-10May-10Jul-10Sep-10Nov-10Jan-11Mar-11May-11Jul-11Sep-11Nov-11Jan-12Mar-12May-12Jul-12Sep-12Nov-12Jan-13Mar-13May-13Jul-13Sep-13Nov-13Jan-14Mar-14May-14Jul-14Sep-14Nov-14Monthly Water Withdrawal (MGD)
Daily Average Daily Max
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-31
Wastewater
The City of Tybee Island operates a water pollution control plant with the following permitted discharge
limitations:
Flow - MGD Monthly Average Weekly Average
May – September 1.15 1.44
October – April 0.89 1.11
Source: City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
As part of the Carrying Capacity Study, the discharge reports from October, 2012 through August, 2015
were reviewed. Wastewater discharge has exceeded or been close to exceeding the permit limitations
during the summer seasons of 2013, 2014 and 2015, even though higher discharge limitations are
providing to deal with the peak demands of tourist season. As with the water system, approximately 50%
of the wastewater collection system is less than 20 years old. In addition, the City is curr ently upgrading
pump stations and associated force mains.
Stormwater Quality and Quantity
The City of Tybee Island operates a public drainage system that conveys stormwater runoff to the river s,
creeks, marshes and ocean. The City is required to implement a stormwater management program in
compliance with the NPDES Phase I Medium MS4 Permit, as required by provisions of the Georgia Water
Quality Control Act and the Federal Clean Water Act. This permit requires the development of a
Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP), to address the following program elements, as stipulated in CFR
122.26(d)(2)(iv)(A) through 122.26(d)(2)(iv)(D):
• Structural and Source Control Measures
• Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
• Industrial Facility Stormwater Runoff Control
• Construction Site Runoff Management
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has previously required the City of Tybee Island to
expand its SWMP to include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to address the following required
modifications:
• Impaired Waterways, i.e. 303(d) listed stream segments
• Highly Visible Pollutant Sources
• Public Education/Public Involvement
• Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
• Development of an Enforcement Response Plan
• Development of a Green Infrastructure Plan
• Post Construction Stormwater Control
Compliance with this permit and implementation of the City’s SWMP is intended to protect and improve
water quality in local rivers, marshes and creeks by reducing the amount of non-point source pollution
that is conveyed through the City’s drainage system. Through this program, the City has educated the
public and businesses about best practices to reduce stormwater pollution, and has developed a more
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-32
proactive approach to drainage system maintenance. The City also performs illicit discharge and water
quality monitoring that will provide useful data, over time, to evaluate the success of this program 4.
Sea Level Rise
The City of Tybee Island recently completed the Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan, which
explores and identifies steps that the City can take to become more resilient to sea level rise and flooding
issues. This study was completed in partnership with the Georgia Sea Grant, the University of Georgia,
and Stetson University.
Sea level rise has been documented from a long-term tidal gauge at Fort Pulaski; since installation in
1935, sea-level has risen 10 inches. In addition, the records of nuisance flooding have steadily increased
with 23 separate incidents recorded in 2015. US 80 typically floods during these periods, cutting off all
access from the mainland to the Island. In addition to the flooding of US 80, which occurs during king
tide events, flooding of low lying areas on the Island also occur, particularly in the southwestern portion of
the Island. The problem flooding is exacerbated when rain events occur during high tides.
Solid Waste
The City of Tybee Island provides solid waste, yard waste and recycling services through a contract with a
private entity. Recycling is single stream and includes paper, cardboard, newspapers, magazines, junk
mail, plastics (1-7), and metal cans. Plastic bags, Styrofoam, film, glass and bubble wrap are not
accepted.5
The City began an initiative to address plastic bag and other plastic littering through a separate recycling
program with drop off locations in different areas of the Island. These locations include Chu’s
Convenience Store on Inlet Avenue and the City of Tybee Island Police Department on Van Horn. The
City’s Department of Public Works is responsible for trash and recycling collection from the beach and the
recycling stations and are deposited at the transfer station for collection by the contracted waste
company. During the peak tourist season, an estimated 6 - 15 tons of trash per day are collected fro m the
beach areas and other public facilities, with approximately 4 tons per day collected in the off season.
Needs/Issues
Through the participation process and data analysis, the needs and issues focused on the sustainability of
the Island and the ability to meet the needs of the population while preserving the environmental
resources that make the City of Tybee Island a unique resource. The needs/issues identified include:
• Sustainable development that does not outpace resources and infrastructure
• Beach and shoreline protection
• Water supply and the need for public education
• Wastewater plant upgrades
• Businesses that serve year round residents as well as tourism
• Emergency/disaster preparedness and rebuilding planning
4 City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment, 2016
5 City of Tybee Island Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment, 2016
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-33
Opportunities/Strategies
Opportunities and strategies were identified in conjunction with the community members to take
advantage of existing opportunities and strategies to address the identified needs. These opportunities
and strategies include:
• Review results of the carrying capacity study and implement recommendations as feasible
• Work with agencies on preservation of beach and marshes
• Provide education for visitors on the fragile ecosystem and appropriate actions and activities
• Continue water conservation efforts and assess needed upgrades to the system
• Develop educational materials on water conservation techniques for visitors
• Develop a prioritized plan for implementing the needed infrastructure improvements
• Fast track funding substructure for water/sewer plant upgrades and new facilities
• Complete a peer review of other island communities and the various approaches for
conserving/managing water resources
• Develop strategies focusing on the retention of small businesses
• Provide incentives to encourage new businesses to locate on Tybee
• Create policies to encourage off peak visitors
• Work with local, state and federal agencies to develop a plan for dealing with disasters
Consistency with Goals
The table below depicts the consistency of the identified opportunities/strategies in meeting the
established goals for sustainability.
GOAL: Encourage a diverse, stable and year round population with a high quality of life
• Develop strategies focusing on the retention of small businesses
• Provide incentives to encourage new businesses to locate on Tybee
• Create policies to encourage off peak visitors
GOAL: Encourage a focus on quality development within the carry capacity of the island
• Review results of the carrying capacity study and implement recommendations as feasible
• Continue water conservation efforts and assess needed upgrades to the system
• Develop educational materials on water conservation techniques for visitors
• Develop a prioritized plan for implementing the needed infrastructure improvements
• Fast track funding substructure for water/sewer plant upgrades and new facilities
• Complete a peer review of other island communities and the various approaches for
conserving/managing water resources
GOAL: Ensure that existing water, wastewater, solid waste, and transportation infrastructure is sufficient
to support the current population.
• Review results of the carrying capacity study and implement recommendations as feasible
• Continue water conservation efforts and assess needed upgrades to the system
• Develop educational materials on water conservation techniques for visitors
• Develop a prioritized plan for implementing the needed infrastructure improvements
• Fast track funding substructure for water/sewer plant upgrades and new facilities
N E E D S A N D O P P O R T U N I T I E S
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-34
• Complete a peer review of other island communities and the various approaches for
conserving/managing water resources
GOAL: Plan for infrastructure improvements, including water, wastewater, solid waste, and
transportation, to support future growth.
• Continue water conservation efforts and assess needed upgrades to the system
• Develop educational materials on water conservation techniques for visitors
• Develop a prioritized plan for implementing the needed infrastructure improvements
• Fast track funding substructure for water/sewer plant upgrades and new facilities
• Complete a peer review of other island communities and the various approaches for
conserving/managing water resources
GOAL: Adapt to a changing climate.
• Work with local, state and federal agencies to develop a plan for dealing with disaster s
GOAL; Protect and preserve our environmentally sensitive areas, including beaches, natural terrain,
drainage areas, vegetation, coastal marshlands, wildlife habitat and corridors, and floodplains.
• Work with agencies on preservation of beach and marshes
• Provide education for visitors on the fragile ecosystem and appropriate actions and activities
GOAL: Encourage and support sustainable businesses that serve both year round residents and visitors.
• Develop strategies focusing on the ret ention of small businesses
• Provide incentives to encourage new businesses to locate on Tybee
• Create policies to encourage off peak visitors
GOAL: Promote a balance of diverse employment opportunities for both the year round and seasonal
workforce.
• Develop strategies focusing on the retention of small businesses
• Provide incentives to encourage new businesses to locate on Tybee
• Create policies to encourage off peak visitors
GOVERNMENTAL/INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION ELEMENT
The City of Tybee Island provides significant services for the citizens of the island and communication of
information to the citizens of the City is an important function of the City. In addition, the City of Tybee
Island is also a part of the regional transportation planning body (CORE MPO), and is also included in the
Coastal Regional Commission. With its sensitive coastal location, coordination with various state agencies
is also critical.
Needs/Issues
Through the participation process and data analysis, the needs and issues focused on the
governmental/intergovernmental coordination and the ability to meet the needs of the population. The
needs/issues identified include:
• Needs/Issues Better methods for educating and informing the public
• Litter control and trash removal
• Regulatory enforcement
• Lack of public amenities (i.e. bathrooms)
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Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 4-35
Opportunities/Strategies
Opportunities and strategies were identified in conjunction with the community members to take
advantage of existing opportunities and strategies to address the id entified needs. These opportunities
and strategies include:
• Continue to work with the Coastal Region MPO and GDOT on planned and future improvements
• Identify issues with trash removal and work to address those issues
• Develop programs to reduce the amount of trash generated
• Assess current enforcement practices and identify areas of needed improvement
• Identify areas where additional permanent public restrooms may be feasible
• Provide portable restrooms at public beach crossovers in the summer
• Develop and implement informational signage for visitors regarding amenities and their locations
• Improve information dissemination through enhancements to the City website
• Develop programs for educating visitors and residents on littering
• Investigate opportunities to utilize social media and smart phone apps for information sharing
Consistency with Goals
The table below depicts the consistency of the identified opportunities/strategies in meeting the
established goals for governmental/intergovernmental coordination.
GOAL: Continue to participate and promote the regional efforts to develop solutions for issues
affecting Tybee, the region and the State
• Continue to work with the Coastal Region MPO and GDOT on planned and future
improvements,
GOAL: Promote and preserve Tybee’s unique identity within the regional context of Coastal Georgia.
• Identify issues with trash removal and work to address those issues
• Develop programs to reduce the amount of trash generated
• Assess current enforcement practices and identify areas of needed improvement
• Identify areas where additional permanent public restrooms may be feasible
• Provide portable restrooms at public beach crossovers in the summer
• Develop and implement informational signage for visitors regarding amenities and their
locations
GOAL: Develop and achieve our own vision with State technical and financial support.
• Improve information dissemination through enhancements to the City website
• Develop programs for educating visitors and residents on littering
• Investigate opportunities to utilize social media and smart phone apps for information sharing
CHAPTER 5
ACHIEVING THE VISION
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-1
The City of Tybee Island and its residents utilize their comprehensive plan as their day to day business is
conducted. The community approach is a plan that is more than the “check the required box”, but one
that is implementable and useful in charting the course for the future. The implementation element of the
Comprehensive plan is the Short Term Work Program (STWP). The STWP provides the specific action
items, identifies the time frame, responsibilities and anticipated budget requirements. This STWP is also a
required element of a compliant Comprehensive Plan.
In addition to the STWP, the community must develop policies that will be adopted by the local
government that will provide ongoing direction for making decisions that will be consistent with the
vision and ultimately achieving the identified goals.
Community Short Term Work Program
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
LAND USE/DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS
Review and update the Land Development Code in
accordance with the Vision of this plan 2017 2020 City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Enforce existing height restrictions 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Review and revise the current zoning ordinance as necessary
to ensure development compatibility with existing
neighborhoods
2017 2020 City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Allow upstairs residential in commercial areas when
commercial is the main use 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Discourage downzoning in commercial areas 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Increase minimum required square footage for duplex or
multi-family construction in R-2 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Continue development of comprehensive GIS database for the
City 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION
Review and assess the current historic preservation ordinance
and update as needed 2017 2019
City / Hist.
Pres.
Committee
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Develop an education packet to be distributed to visitors
about the available activities/services/resources, as well as
information regarding protection of natural resources and
work with various agencies/rental companies on distribution
2017 2018 City/Tourism
Council
$25,000/
Gen. Fund; H/M
Tax
Explore the feasibility of establishing incentives for restoration
projects 2017 2018
City / Hist.
Pres.
Committee
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-2
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION (continued)
Develop a program to buy and remove grandfathered
billboards in the marsh 2018 2022 City/Tourism
Council Gen. Fund/DNR
Coordinate with appropriate agencies and historic
preservation groups to identify funding for preservation
projects
2017 Ongoing
City/Hist.
Pres.
Committee
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Adopt local historic district designations 2017 2017 City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Continue the economic development planning for the
business district 2017 Ongoing City/Main
Street
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Consider establishing architectural standards for historic
structures 2017 Ongoing
City/Hist.
Pres.
Committee
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Protect the existing character of the island by limiting the
mass, scale, density and height according to established
ordinances
2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Provide facilities and services needed by tourists and residents
while lessening the impacts of tourism on permanent island
residents
2017 Ongoing City/Tourism
Council
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Provide showers at dune crossovers if/when the deep well
treatment facility is completed 2019 2021 City $100,000
Gen. Fund
Incorporate the results of the carrying capacity study into
regulations to ensure growth does not outpace resources and
infrastructure
2019 2023 City Staff/City
Council
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Enforce existing rules through cart and beach patrols with
possible surveillance video in problem areas 2019 Ongoing City Staff/City
Council
$50,000/
Gen. Fund
Explore the feasibility of Transfer of Development Rights for
the implementation of parking facilities in exchange for
greenspace
2019 2021 City Staff/City
Council/DCA
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Continue to implement beautification/façade improvements in
the business district through a revolving loan program 2017 Ongoing City/Main
Street
Staff
time/$25,000/
Gen. Fund
Review the Tree Ordinance and develop incentives to promote
the retention of trees as opposed to removal and replacement 2018 2020 City/Main
Street
Staff
time/$25,000/
Gen. Fund
Actively enforce existing ordinance violations for short term
rentals by warning for first offense and loss of license for
second offense
2018 Ongoing City/City
Council
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Consider annexation of McQueen's Island from Lazaretto
creek Bridge to the western terminus of the Bull River Bridge 2019 2024 City/City
Council
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Continue to support the Lighthouse Museum 2017 Ongoing City $25,000/yr
Gen. Fund
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-3
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION (continued)
Continue to support and work with the Marine Science Center 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Continue to support the Tybee Post Theater 2017 Ongoing City $25,000/yr
Gen. Fund
Support continued planning and program development for
the Rivers End Campground to attract off-season visitors 2017 Ongoing City $30,000
Gen. Fund/DNR
Continue to maintain/replace as necessary all public works
equipment 2017 Ongoing City $100,000
Gen. Fund/SPLOST
Develop a master plan for Memorial Park, including walking
paths and shade trees 2019 2019 City/Tourism
Council
$75,000/
Gen. Fund
SUSTAINABILITY
Review results of the carrying capacity study and implement
recommendations as feasible 2018 2021 City $1,000,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR/SPLOST
Work with agencies on preservation of beach and marshes 2017 Ongoing City $50,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR
Provide education for visitors on the fragile ecosystem and
appropriate actions and activities 2017 Ongoing City/Tourism
Council
$25,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR
Continue water conservation efforts and assess needed
upgrades to the system 2017 Ongoing City/Tourism
Council
$25,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR
Consider an island ban on outdoor watering (sprinkling,
irrigation and drip lines) 2018 2021 City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Develop educational materials on water conservation
techniques for visitors and residents 2017 2019 City/Tourism
Council
$15,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR
Develop a prioritized plan for implementing needed
infrastructure improvements 2019 2020 City $50,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR/DCA
Fast track funding substructure for water/sewer plant
upgrades and new facilities 2018 2020 City $1,000,000/Gen.
Fund/DNR/DCA
Continue to implement the NPDES Phase 1 MS4 Permit SWMP 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Complete a peer review of other island communities and the
various approaches for conserving and managing water
resources
2017 2018 City $45,000/Gen. Fund
Continue to monitor drainage issues in dunes 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund/DNR
Continue to update dune crossovers 2019 2025 City $100,000/
Gen. Fund/DNR
Continue the upgrade of sewer collection system; improve
efficiency, reduce stormwater intrusion and explore the
feasibility of connecting existing septic systems users to the
treatment facility
2017 2025 City S$3,000,000/
SPLOST
Continue to seek funding and implement beach re-
nourishment 2020 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund/DNR
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-4
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
SUSTAINABILITY (continued)
Continue to provide for the use of native plants/xeriscape
through the development of landscaping guidelines 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Develop strategies focusing on the retention of small
businesses 2018 2019 City/Main
Street
$30,000/
Gen. Fund
Provide incentives and assistance to encourage new
businesses to locate on Tybee 2017 Ongoing City/Main
Street
$40,000/
Gen. Fund
Create policies to encourage off peak visitors 2018 2019 City/Main
Street
$30,000/
Gen. Fund
Encourage small conventions to locate on the island during
off-season 2018 2019 City/Main
Street
Staff time/
Gen. Fund
Develop and adopt a Catastrophic Disaster Rebuild Plan for
the Island 2019 2020 City $100,000/Gen.
Fund/DCA/DNR
If deep well tests are successful, construct water treatment
facility for deep well water 2021 Ongoing City $2,225,000/
SPLOST
Develop ordinance changes to encourage non-FEMA
compliant homes to be lifted to become FEMA compliant 2019 2021 City $50,000/Gen.
Fund/DCA/DNR
Work with local, state and federal agencies to develop a plan
for dealing with disasters 2020 2021 City/CEMA $100,000/Gen
Fund/DCA
HOUSING
Encourage a variety of housing types with a range of costs 2017 Ongoing City $10,000/Gen. Fund
Investigate the approaches of other communities and develop
incentive programs for the provision of affordable housing
appropriate for Tybee
2018 2019 City $30,000/Gen. Fund
Allow for multi-use upstairs rentals in commercial areas that
provide affordable year-round housing 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Investigate the feasibility of a rent subsidy program so critical
city personnel (police, fire, etc.) can live on the Island 2019 2021 City $30,000/Gen.
Fund/DCA
Review and assess the number of short-term rental properties
and impacts on adjacent properties 2017 2018 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Require licensing for vacation rentals and minimize adverse
impacts on Island residents, including parking, noise, and
numbers of tenants
2018 2019 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Investigate the need to provide services and facilities for an
older, retired population 2018 2019 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Identify needed services that are lacking for year-round
residents 2018 2019 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
TRANSPORTATION
Work with the Coastal Region MPO and GDOT on planned
and future improvements, including the exploration of
alternative means of transportation on the Island as well as
access to and from the Island
2017 Ongoing City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-5
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
TRANSPORTATION (continued)
Document issues/events to substantiate funding requests 2018 Ongoing City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Establish active subcommittee of infrastructure committee to
investigate funding opportunities for projects 2018 2018 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
In coordination with GDOT, explore opportunities for round-
abouts at intersections, including US 80/McKenzie, US 80/Estill
Hammock Rd, and Butler/Tybrisa
2019 2020 City/GDOT $50,000/ Gen.
Fund/GDOT
Explore various funding opportunities, such as grant programs
and the Transportation Alternatives Program to leverage local
funding for implementation
2017 Ongoing City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund / CORE MPO
Continue to develop multi-use paths and linkages throughout
the City connecting greenspace, parks, cultural, and historic
resources
2017 Ongoing City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund/ CORE MPO
Identify areas in need of pedestrian facilities or in need of
upgrading existing pedestrian facilities and strategies to
address the identified needs
2018 2019 City/CORE
MPO
$50,000/ Gen.
Fund/GDOT/
CORE MPO
Support the ongoing beautification/landscaping of Highway
80 2017 Ongoing City/GDOT Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Educate residents and visitors about transportation related
routes and ordinances 2017 Ongoing City/GDOT $10,000/ Gen.
Fund
Identify appropriate areas and types of additional parking
facilities, specifically in the North Beach area 2017 2018 City $20,000/ Gen.
Fund
Explore the opportunity for a parking garage in coordination
with Chatham County 2018 2020 City/
Chatham Co
Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Explore opportunities to incorporate mix of uses with potential
additional parking 2018 2021 City/
Chatham Co
Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Consider the development of an additional parking lot in C-2
on city owned easement 2018 2021 City/
Chatham Co
Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Lessen parking requirements for new businesses to encourage
commercial use of C-2 properties 2018 2021 City Staff time/ Gen.
Fund
Provide discounted parking decals for businesses for
employees who do not live on Tybee 2018 2020 City $40,000/ Gen.
Fund
Develop a parking fee structure that maximizes income
opportunities based on peak season and times. 2018 2019 City $40,000/ Gen.
Fund
Coordinate with local officials and agen cies to provide
assistance with seasonal traffic and to alleviate traffic impacts,
especially on residential streets and particularly during events
2017 Ongoing
City/
CORE MPO/
GDOT
Staff time/Gen.
Fund
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-6
Project Description Year
Begin
Year
End
Responsible
Party Cost Est. / Source
TRANSPORTATION (continued)
Create Marsh Hen Trail to connect the current bicycle route to
the Lazaretto Bridge, 2017 2018 City
$717,612/Gen.
Fund, GDOT TE
Grant, Other
Grants
GOVERNMENTAL/INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
Improve information dissemination through enhancements to
the City website 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Investigate opportunities to utilize social media and smart
phone apps for information sharing 2018 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Develop programs for educating visitors and residents on
littering 2018 2018 City $10,000/Gen. Fund
Identify issues with trash removal and work to address those
issues 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Provide brightly painted trash cans on the beach between
crossovers and explore the opportunity for trash can
sponsorships
2018 2019 City $40,000/Gen. Fund
Develop programs to reduce the amount of trash generated 2019 2024 City $15,000/ Gen.
Fund
Assess current enforcement practices and identify areas of
needed improvement 2017 2019 City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Assess number of staff needed and identify any shortfalls 2017 2019 City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Identify areas where additional permanent public restrooms
may be feasible 2017 2020 City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Provide portable restrooms at public beach crossovers in the
summer 2018 Ongoing City $50,000/ Gen.
Fund/DNR
Develop and implement informational signage for visitors
regarding amenities and their locations 2018 2018 City/Tourism
Council
$10,000/ Gen.
Fund
Utilize a broad spectrum of information dissemination,
including traditional hard copy (mailers, newsletters) as well as
technology based (website, social media) methods to reach all
members of the community
2018 Ongoing City/Tourism
Council
$10,000/ Gen.
Fund
Coordinate with CEMA, Chatham County and other local
regional planning agencies to implement Tybee Island's
Hurricane Disaster Management Plan
2017 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Continue to work with Chatham County and Savannah
economic development agencies 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
Continue to participate in regional transportation efforts 2017 Ongoing City Staff time/Gen.
Fund
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-7
Policies
Policies identified in the planning process provide guidance for City officials ensuri ng the local decisions
support and focus on achieving the identified community vision. The policies below were identified
during the planning process.
Land Use
The City of Tybee Island will review all land use decisions within the context of the Master Plan. Areas of
focus will be on maintaining height limits and managing growth to ensure the context of the community
is preserved. Development will be compatible with adjacent areas and neighborhood character will be
protected. Policies include the following:
Enforcement of existing height restrictions
Encourage the limitation of downzoning in commercial areas
Review and support the results of the Carrying Capacity Study
Support and encourage ordinance to ensure compatible development
Housing
The City of Tybee Island is committed to the provision of various housing options, type and mix to meet
the needs of existing and future residents, as well as seasonal residents. Policies include the following:
Promote the restoration and preservation of histor ic homes
Promote the provision of affordable workforce housing
Encourage a range of housing types with a diverse range of costs
Investigate the need to provide services for an aging population
Transportation
The City is focused on the provision of a safe, connected, multimodal transportation network that
provides mobility for all users. This effort includes the provision of pedestrian and bicycle facilities that
are pleasant and provide access to activity centers throughout the Island. Policies include the following:
Encourage multimodal connections that provide safe access to community activity centers
Coordinate with regional and state agencies to address major transportation issues
Support the exploration of various funding opportunities to address transportation needs
Encourage development patterns that facilitate multimodal transportation access
Encourage regional bicycle connections to Tybee Island
Community Preservation
The City of Tybee Island has a unique character and has preserved that special community character over
the years. The City will continue efforts focused on the preservation of the traditional community
character and sense of place. A key component of the effort is the enhancement and protection of
community open spaces and parks, historic and cultural resources, and natural resources. In addition, the
focus will be on the protection of the interests and needs of the full time residents while balancing
tourism. Policies identified include the following:
Encourage the preservation and protection of historic and cultural resources
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-8
Encourage and support the preservation of the traditional community character and sense of
place
Support the development of crisis management plan
Support the development of a growth management plan
Sustainability
The City of Tybee Island has a long-standing commitment to a sustainable future for the community. This
commitment includes ensuring development does not outpace the ability to provide services and
infrastructure; the protection of the beaches, which is critical to economic viability; a commitment to
supporting businesses that serve both year round residents and tourists; and the development of an
emergency/disaster preparedness plan. Policies identified include the following:
Support the implementation of the Carrying Capacity Study results and recommendations
Coordinate with local, regional and state agencies on beach and marsh preservation
Encourage programs providing education to residents and visitors regarding water supply and
usage
Encourage the development of a rebuilding plan in the case of a disaster
Governmental/Intergovernmental Coordination
The City of Tybee Island provides numerous services in support of the residents of, and visitors to, Tybee
Island. In addition, the City is actively coordinating with other local governments and state agencies on
regional initiatives. Policies include the following:
Support and encourage active participation in regional and statewide efforts
Promote the coordination between agencies and other government on planned and future
improvements affecting the City
Promote the preservation of Tybee’s unique identify
Continue to promote Tybee as a state and national tourist destination
Encourage enhanced information sharing with citizens and visitors regarding services and facilities
Continue coordination with local governments and agencies, including CEMA and Chatham
County to implement Tybee Island’s Hurricane Disaster Management Plan.
Supplemental Plans
Joint Service Delivery Strategy with Chatham County
The Chatham County Joint Service Delivery Strategy was developed by the Chatham County -Savannah
Metropolitan Planning Commission and covered all local governments within Chatham County, including
the City of Tybee Island. This Service Delivery Strategy was adopted February, 2010. The City will
continue to work with the MPC and other local governments in the development of the required update.
Solid Waste Management Plan
The City of Tybee Island adopted a Solid Waste Management Plan in 2008 with a horizon year of 2018.
This plan is compliant with the state guidance for solid waste management planning at the local level and
ensures that future solid waste management needs are identified and incorporated in the plan. The plan
covers the five core elements of waste reduction, waste collection, waste disposal, land limitation and
education and public involvement.
A C H I E V I N G T H E V I S I O N
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // 5-9
Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
The Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan was completed in partnership with the NOAA Sea Grant
and the Georgia Department of natural Resources Coastal Resources Commission. The plan provides a
process to identify and evaluation potential adaptation actions to mitigate issues resulting from sea level
rise. The plan includes five focus areas of infrastructure, access and connectivity, coastal dynamics, image
and character, and management and stewardship.
Stormwater Management Plan
Phase I communities are required by the Environmental Protection Division to complete a stormwater
management plan. This plan addresses structural and source control measures, discharge oversight,
stormwater runoff control, and construction site runoff control. The City of Tybee Island’s plan covers
these areas, as well as an approach for impaired waterways, public education and pollution prevention.
Carry Capacity Study
The Carrying Capacity Study is being prepared by the City of Tybee Island with support from a Coastal
Incentive Grant awarded from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Office for Coastal
Management, and the National oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The study provides an
assessment of the current conditions with regard to infrastructure and services and an assessment of the
impacts of future growth in a build out scenario. The study will be completed in November, 2016.
Beach Management Plan
The City of Tybee Island Beach Management Plan provides standard operating procedures for
management of Tybee’s beaches, including the identification of management and maintenance
responsibilities, as well as recommendations of specific duties for stakeholders and government officials.
The plan is the official policy of the City of Tybee Island and provides long term planning for beach best
management practices.
Tybee Island Corridor Charrette
A 3-day charrette, hosted by the Coastal Regional Commission, was held on Tybee Island to identify issues
and obtain consensus on within the C-2 Zoning of the Arts, Eats, Eco-Tourism Business Corridor. The goal
of the charrette was to reach consensus through the public engagement process on issues related to land
use, zoning and compatible uses within and adjacent to the corridor. The charrette was held in 2012.
Tybee Island Tourism Study
The Tourism Study was completed in May, 2015 by the Armstrong Center for Regional Analysis in
cooperation with the Armstrong Public Service Center. The purpose of the study was to analyze the
different elements of the tourism economy. The total annual visitation was estimated in conjunction with
the economic impacts of the tourists. In addition, a survey was administered to visitors to obtain
information regarding economic behavior to better understand the behavior of visitors to the Island.
APPENDICES
A P P E N D I C E S
Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan// 2016 // A-1
Community Participation Documentation
Survey Results
Character Area Map
Carrying Capacity Study – Data Assessment
Work Program Report of Accomplishments
Quality Community Objectives Assessment
Desired Design Patterns and Architectural Styles Guidebook
Transmittal Resolution
APPENDICES
COMMUNITY PARTICIPAT ION
DOCUMENTATION
City of Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan Update
Community Participation Plan
February, 2016
Community Participation
Plan
i
Table of Contents
I. Introduction ........................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Purpose ..................................................................................................................... 1
II. Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................... 1
III. Stakeholders and Participants ............................................................................. 4
3.1 Key Participants ........................................................................................................ 4
3.2 Stakeholder Coordination Structure ......................................................................... 5
IV. Community Participation Techniques ................................................................... 5
4.1 Public Participation Opportunities ............................................................................ 5
V. Schedule for Plan Completion .............................................................................. 7
Community Participation
Plan
1
Community Participation Plan
I. Introduction
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs requires that local governments prepare local
Comprehensive Plans. This requirement ensures the status as a qualified local government
which ensure the local government is eligible for grants and assistance. ,. The comprehensive
plans must include the following elements:
Community Goals
Needs and Opportunities
Community Work Program
Land Use
Transportation
Housing
Members of the community must be provided opportunities for input, for each of these
elements, during the planning process.
1.0 1.1 Purpose
The Community Participation Plan describes the processes and procedures that will be
employed during the development of the Comprehensive Plan to ensure that the members of
the public have ample opportunities to provide input. It is critical that the public be integrally
involved in the development of the plan and the Participation Plan forms the foundation for the
overall planning process. Three general steps for ensuring input and involvement of
stakeholders and the public have been identified by the State and include:
Identification of Stakeholders
Identification of Participation Techniques
Conduct Participation Program
It is through the public participation and input that the community-based vision can be
developed, as well as the strategies and guiding principles that will be employed to attain the
vision. The involvement of the public is a key element of the plan and opportunities for input
will be provided throughout the development of the plan and particularly, at key times during
the planning process.
II. Goals and Objectives
The following goals and objectives are outlined for the Community Participation Plan and are designed to
2
meet the identified steps described above. The goals are high level expressions of the approach to public
involvement activities and the objectives provide more detailed strategies on achieving the identified
goals.
Goal:
Identify all stakeholders and members of the public who need to participate in the planning
process and provide input in the development of the plan.
Objectives:
Coordinate with local government staff to identify community members who should
be actively involved in the plan, particularly community elected officials and other
local government committee members
Ensure participation of these identified community mem bers which will foster the
ongoing implementation of the plan
Goal:
Form a citizens committee that will meet regularly throughout the planning process and
provide input and guidance in the development of the plan.
Objectives:
Provide opportunities for members of the committee to review and understand
detailed technical analyses
Provide opportunities for members of the committee to provide input on an ongoing
and regular basis throughout the plan development
Goal:
Provide opportunities for stakeholders, interested parties and members of the general public to
learn about and help shape strategies through an active involvement process that is open,
inclusive and accessible to all citizens and their perspectives.
Objectives:
Provide participation and educational opportunities for any citizen
Develop partnerships among the local governments, agencies and community
organizations
Build trust among all project participants
Goal:
Provide clear, accurate and understandable information that can be transmitted to citizens and
interested parties through a variety of means
3
Objectives:
Use clear and understandable language, as well as graphics to clearly communicate
technical issues
Use a variety of media, including websites, fact sheets, and public meeting
presentations to disseminate information and data, particularly at key decision points
during the process
Identify opportunities to obtain input from a diverse spectrum of stakeholders,
including those populations that are traditionally underserved in the planning process
Goal:
Provide avenues to efficiently receive input from the public and to integrate the input into the
development of the plan
Objectives:
Monitor the progress of the technical analysis through project team meetings,
workshops, public forums and other stakeholder involvement activities to identify
issues and concerns
Provide documentation of these issues and concerns
Provide acknowledgement of input received from stakeholders
Goal:
Monitor the effectiveness of the planning process and the public involvement process through
communicating and receiving information among stakeholders, citizens, planning partners and
the project team
Objectives:
Conduct questionnaires of participants during activities, such as workshops, to gauge
the effectiveness of the format
Collect input from the community through additional methods, such as surveys
Solicit feedback from the advisory committees and any technical committees on their
satisfaction with the input opportunities and activities
4
III. Stakeholders and Participants
The comprehensive planning process will involve many participants, including community
stakeholders and citizens from the county and the municipalities. Because of the varied interests,
issues, opportunities and community focus, an organized approach will be required to efficiently
maintain the stakeholder involvement process. The following section describes the overall
organization of the stakeholder coordination element of the project as well as the key players
involved in the study.
2.0 3.1 Key Participants
The individuals and groups expected to be involved in the study are likely to fall into the following
major groups of participants.
Advisory Working Group
Volunteers to serve on the Advisory Working Group will be requested at the first scheduled
public meeting. It is anticipated that this working group will meet frequently and regularly
throughout the process to review detailed technical data and analyses and provide input and
guidance.
Community Members
All members of the community members will be invited to participate in public workshops
and meetings of the Advisory Working Group.
City of Tybee Island Planning Commission/City of Tybee Island Committees
The City of Tybee Island Planning Commission is the board that represents the wide variety
of interests that exist within the City. The purpose of the board is to “promote the health,
safety, morals convenience, order, prosperity and general welfare, and to provide for the
orderly development of the City of Tybee Island.” This 7-member board is appointed by the
Mayor and City Council. Members of the Planning Commission will be invited to participate
in the process and updates on the planning process provided at Planning Commission
meetings.
In addition to the Planning Commission, there are other appointed committees for the City.
These various committees will also be invited to participate throughout the development of
the plan as members of the Advisory Working Group or through community workshops and
meetings.
Elected Officials
The input and involvement of state and local elected officials is critical in addressing the
planning issues which benefit and/or impact their communities. Elected officials will have
multiple opportunities to participate in the planning process.
5
3.0 3.2 Stakeholder Coordination Structure
The structure of the Project Team and the elements related to public involvement and
coordination ensures that three important principles guide the structure of the participation
process:
Continuous communication and exchange of key information through the coordination
and involvement processes are conveyed to the project team for use in the development
of the plan.
The process also provides for a direct communications and interaction link between the
local staff, the consultant team and the various committees and groups to minimize any
confusion in the overall direction of the project at the policy level.
Continuous communication is maintained throughout the project between the project
team and all of the parties interested in participating in the study.
IV. Community Participation Techniques
The information below details how the public will be involved on the purpose and role of the
Comprehensive Plan, how the public can provide input on the plan’s development,
opportunities for public interaction, and methods of public partnership on plan
implementation.
4.0 4.1 Public Participation Opportunities
The planning process will include numerous opportunities for members of the community to
participate and provide input. These opportunities include public meetings, as well as meetings
of the Advisory Working Group.
Public Meetings / Workshops
A series of public meetings/workshops and meetings of the Advisory Working Group have been
identified, along with each of the overall agenda items for discussion at each meeting. All
meetings are scheduled to be held on Tuesday evenings from, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, in order to
avoid other regularly scheduled city/community meetings. Meetings will be held at the Tybee
City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue.
Public Meeting # 1: February 16, 2016
An initial meeting will be held to discuss the Comprehensive Plan and its eleme nts, as well as
describing the planning process. This meeting will include a presentation covering the plan’s
purpose and general approach for completion. In addition, volunteers will be solicited to serve
on the Advisory Working Group. The workshop portion of the meeting will include a review and
6
discussion of the Community Goals identified in the previous Comprehensive Plan and a
discussion on the issues facing the community.
Advisory Working Group # 1: March 15, 2016
This meeting of the Advisory Working Group will be focused on several elements. Based on the
review of the Community Goals at the public meeting, the group will review and refine the
goals and objectives for presentation at the next public meeting. The development of the
existing and future conditions will be underway, and this information will also be presented. In
addition, the group will identify needs and opportunities of the community.
Public Meeting # 2: April 5, 2016
The second public meeting will be held to review the suggestions for refinement of the goals
from the Advisory Working Group and to finalize the Community Goals. The workshop will also
include a review of the existing and future conditions and the review of the needs and
opportunities, also developed by the Advisory Working Group. With the completion of the
review, the workshop groups will discuss and identify additional needs and opportunities.
Advisory Working Group # 2: April 12, 2016
The second meeting of the advisory group will focus on the refinement of the needs and
opportunities based on the results from the public meeting held on April 5. Based on these
needs and opportunities, the group will begin the development of draft recommendations to
address the identified needs and take advantage of the o pportunities.
Advisory Working Group # 3: May 5, 2016
The third meeting of the Advisory Working Group will continue with the
development/refinement of the draft recommendations. Based on this discussion, the group
will finalize the draft recommendations.
Public Meeting # 3: June 14, 2016
The third public meeting will focus on reviewing and finalizing the draft recommendations and
plan.
Tybee Planning Commission
The draft recommendations and plan will presented to the Tybee Planning Commission at their
meeting scheduled for June 20, 2016.
Tybee City Council
Regular updates on the plan development will be provided to the City Council, as requested by
staff and based on need. A presentation of the plan kick-off will be made to the City Council at
their meeting scheduled for February 11, 2016. This presentation will introduce the project
team and provide information regarding the planning process and the schedule.
7
The draft plan will be presented to the City Council on July 14, 2016. At this meeting, the
Council will be requested to adopt a resolution submitting the plan to the Coastal Regional
Commission for the required agency review.
Upon completion of the agency review and all comments have been addressed, the final plan
will be presented to the City Council for adoption on October 13, 2016. This adoption date
meets the required deadline of adoption by October 31, 2016.
Public Hearings
Two public hearings are scheduled and will be held in conjunction with City Council meetings.
The first public hearing will be held at the July 14, 2016 Council meeting before the adoption of
the submittal resolution. The second public hearing will be held at the October 13, 2016
meeting before the adoption of the final plan by Council.
V. Schedule for Plan Completion
Tasks Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept.Oct
Kick Off Meeting
Data Collection
Existing/Future Conditions
Needs and Opportunities
Draft Recommendations and Plan
Final Recommendations and Plan
Public/Community Involvement
Plan Submittal for Agency Review
Agency Review (CRC and DCA)
Address Agency Comments
Plan Adoption
Public Meeting
Advisory Working Group
City of Tybee Island Comprehensive Plan Update Project Schedule
APPENDICES
SURVEY RESULTS
APPENDICES
CHARACTER AREA MAP
APPENDICES
CARRY CAPACITY STUDY
DATA ASSESSMENT
City of Tybee Island
Carrying Capacity Study
35 Abercorn Street, Suite 210
Savannah, Georgia 31401
www.ecologicalplanning.net
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y i
a. Acknowledgements
This study was prepared by the City of Tybee Island under a Coastal Incentive Grant awarded
from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and from the Office for Coastal
Management (OCM), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The
statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not
necessarily reflect the views of DNR, OCM or NOAA.
Ecological Planning Group, LLC assisted the City of Tybee Island with preparation of this report.
Many thanks to the Coastal Resources Commission members, elected and appointed City
officials, and citizens who dedicated their time, expertise and resources for this project. Their
assistance and participation in the planning process and data gathering exercises made this study
possible.
A special thanks also goes to the Georgia DNR, Coastal Resources Division. This project would not
have been possible without the funding and assistance provided through the Coastal
Management Program.
35 Abercorn Street, Suite 210
Savannah, Georgia 31401
www.ecologicalplanning.net
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. POPULATION DYNAMICS ON TYBEE ISLAND ................................................................................................. 1
1.1. RESIDENT POPULATION ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1.2. OVERNIGHT POPULATION .................................................................................................................................. 3
1.3. DAYTIME POPULATION ..................................................................................................................................... 6
1.4. POPULATION SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................... 8
2. RESOURCE LIMITATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 9
2.1. WATER WITHDRAWAL & WATER USE ................................................................................................................. 9
2.1.1 Correlation of Overnight Population with Water Usage ...................................................................... 11
2.1.2 Tybee Island Water Withdrawal Permit Limitations ............................................................................ 12
2.1.3 Water Distribution Infrastructure System ............................................................................................ 14
2.1.4 Alternative Water Supply ..................................................................................................................... 14
2.2. WASTEWATER DISCHARGE .............................................................................................................................. 16
2.3. TRANSPORTATION & PARKING ......................................................................................................................... 18
2.3.1 U.S. Highway 80 (US 80) Capacity and Road Network Capacity .......................................................... 18
2.3.2 Parking ................................................................................................................................................. 21
2.4. STORMWATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY ............................................................................................................. 27
2.4.1 Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan ....................................................................................... 28
2.5. SOLID WASTE ............................................................................................................................................... 35
2.5.1 Solid Waste Collection.......................................................................................................................... 35
2.5.2 Disposal Trends .................................................................................................................................... 36
2.6. ENERGY USE ................................................................................................................................................. 37
2.6.1 Solarize Tybee ...................................................................................................................................... 38
2.7. ZONING ....................................................................................................................................................... 39
2.7.1 Zoning Analysis .................................................................................................................................... 39
2.7.2 Methodology ........................................................................................................................................ 39
2.7.3 Analysis ................................................................................................................................................ 40
2.7.4 Population in the R-2 District Based on Current Development ............................................................ 41
2.7.5 Full Build-Out Scenario ......................................................................................................................... 42
2.7.6 Additional Population Based on Build-Out Scenario ............................................................................ 44
2.7.7 Zoning Assessment Findings ................................................................................................................ 44
1. POPULATION DYNAMICS ON TYBEE ISLAND
Due to Tybee Island’s prominence as a vacation destination, there are three distinct types of
population that must be considered, as each type of population is necessary for the economic
viability of the island but may be affected by a different grouping of
limiting factors:
1.) Resident Population. This number includes
homeowners and long term rentals.
2.) Overnight Population. This number includes the
resident population, but it also includes the short-
term rental population which is proportionately
significant, when compared to the resident
population, and variable throughout the year. Also
included in this population is the “second home”
owners who own a second home on Tybee Island,
which they do not rent, but at which they periodically
vacation.
3.) Daytime Population. This number includes the resident and
overnight populations as well as the day-tripper population, which is even more variable
than the overnight population and the largest population during certain holidays such as
the 4th of July.
This memorandum includes a summary of the following information regarding the City’s
population:
Census 2000 and 2010 Data
Analysis of the 2010 Census Data conducted by Tybee Island in support of the 2012 LOST
negotiation
Data from the City’s Business License database regarding short-term rental units and
hotel/motel rooms.
Occupancy data from the Tybee Island Campground and short-term rental agencies
Assessment of water use and sewage discharge data and its correlation to proposed
resident population
City of Tybee Island Tourism Study
This memorandum also includes a projection of overnight and daytime populations based on
the following information:
Daytime
Population
Overnight
Population
Resident
Population
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 2
Data on rental units provided by the City’s Business License Tax Database and private
rental agencies.
Water withdrawal and wastewater discharge
Parking data and transportation studies maintained and/or performed by Tybee Island
B. RESIDENT POPULATION
Table 1 shows the Census data and trends related to population for 2000 and 2010. Table 2
presents the Census data and percentage change for every census since 1900. Please note that
the 2010 Census showed the first population decrease on the island since 1920.
Table 1: Population for Tybee Island, GA
Source: Census Bureau
Table 2: Historical Population Trends
Source: Census Bureau
Census Pop. % Change
1900 381 —
1910 786 106.3%
1920 117 −85.1%
1930 202 72.6%
1940 644 218.8%
1950 1,036 60.9%
1960 1,385 33.7%
1970 1,786 29.0%
1980 2,240 25.4%
1990 2,842 26.9%
2000 3,392 19.4%
2010 2,990 −11.9%
Est. 2014 3,082 3.1%
Table 3 presents the Housing Occupancy characteristics and associated trends over the same
time period. Between the time period of 2000 and 2010, while resident population was
decreasing, the number of total housing units increased. The increase in the tot al number of
living units combined with the reduction in the number of permanently occupied units, resulted
in a significant increase in the number of units that are not occupied by a permanent resident.
Per the 2010 Census, approximately 60% of the units on the island are not permanently
occupied.
Census Data Type 2000 2010 Percent
Change
Population 3,392 2,990 -11.9%
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 3
Table 3: Housing Occupancy Characteristics for Tybee Island, GA
Source: US Census Bureau
Housing Unit Type 2000 Percent
2000
2010 Percent
2010
Percent
Change
Total Housing Units 2,696 -- 3,366 -- 24.9%
Occupied Housing Units 1,568 58.2% 1,360 40.4% -13.3%
Owner-Occupied 1,078 40.0% 918 27.3% -14.8%
Renter-Occupied 490 18.2% 442 13.1% -9.8%
Vacant Housing Units 1,128 41.8% 2,006 59.6% 77.8%
Seasonal, Recreational,
Occasional Use
676 25.1% 1,473 43.8% 117.9%
For Rent/For Sale/Other 452 16.8% 533 15.8% 17.9%
C. OVERNIGHT POPULATION
As a national tourist destination, it is reasonable to assume that Tybee Island has a significant
increase in overnight (non-resident) population that stresses the City’s infrastructure and
resources. Since tourism on Tybee Island is an economic driver for the region, it is necessary to
assess and plan for the impact of increased summertime population.
Tybee Island is a national tourism destination and this overnight, short-term population places a
significant burden, in the form of “peak usage” upon Tybee Island’s services and infrastructure,
including water, sewer, and roadways. Peak usage can be defined as the result of a period of
simultaneous, strong consumer demand.
In order to quantify this additional population and the associated demand placed on City
infrastructure and services, EPG has prepared an estimate of overnight population based on data
provided by the Census 2010, the City’s Occupational Tax records for short term rentals and
hotel/motel units. In addition to the short-term rental units, the City of Tybee Island operates a
campground that contains RV and tent campsites that would not have been included in the
Census. Adding the total number of short-term rental units and hotel/motel units to the total
number of campsites results in a total number of 1,738 short-term rental opportunities, as shown
in Table 4.
In order to estimate the average overnight population associated with the short-term rental units
and campsites on Tybee Island, the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) Population Study conducted by
Tybee Island in 2013 was referenced. As part of this study, information was solicited from the
various rental agencies and campsite operator, including the estimated average percent
occupancy per month, and the average number of people per rental event. This information was
further updated as part of this Carrying Capacity Study, and confirmed through comparison to
the City of Tybee Island Tourism Study (2014). This report also included percentage occupancy
averages for short-term rental units on Tybee Island for each month of the year (Table 5).
The different types of short-term rental units (i.e. house/condo, hotel/motel, and RV/campsite),
have different rental characteristics, and therefore should have a different average for people
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 4
per rental event. For example, rental houses and condominiums on Tybee Island are typically
rented by families, and therefore the number of people per occupied short -term rental units
should be five or greater. Hotel and motel units typically fit less people, so an average number of
people per rental event is much less at 2.5. The campsite actually maintains data on the average
number of people per rental event, which was reported as 2.58 in the LOST Study referenced
above. Utilizing the average number of people per rental event for the various short -term rental
unit types, the monthly average short-term overnight population is projected in Table 6.
Table 4: Short Term Rental Unit Occupancy for Tybee Island, GA
Source: City of Tybee Occupational Tax Database and Tybee Island Campground
Rental Unit Type Number of Units Average Persons
Per Unit
Maximum Rental Population
Hotel 420 2 840
Housing Unit 1,200 5 6,000
Campground 118 2.6 306
Total 1,738 7,146
* Tybee Tourism Study does not differentiate between short-term rental unit types and estimates 4.3
people per unit, which equals a maximum short-term rental population of 7,473.
If you add the maximum short term rental population of 7,146 to the 2014 resident population number
of 3,082, the resulting maximum overnight population for the island is 10,228.
Table 5: Short-Term Rental Occupancy Rates
Source: Short-Term Rental Agencies on Tybee Island
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
22% 31% 62% 70% 64% 91% 96% 74% 57% 52% 33% 24%
Table 6: Short-Term Rental Population by Month
Rental Unit Type Hotel Unit House/Condo Campground Total Short-
Term Rental
Population
Number of Units 420 1,200 118
Average Persons Per Unit 2.5 5 2.6
Occupancy Hotel Unit Rental
Population
House/Condo
Unit Rental
Population
Campground
Rental Population
Jan 22% 231 1,319 67 1,617
Feb 31% 329 1,883 96 2,308
Mar 62% 649 3,711 190 4,550
Apr 70% 735 4,200 215 5,150
May 64% 674 3,851 197 4,721
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 5
Rental Unit Type Hotel Unit House/Condo Campground Total Short-
Term Rental
Population
Number of Units 420 1,200 118
Average Persons Per Unit 2.5 5 2.6
Occupancy Hotel Unit Rental
Population
House/Condo
Unit Rental
Population
Campground
Rental Population
Jun 91% 952 5,438 278 6,667
Jul 96% 1,011 5,780 296 7,086
Aug 74% 773 4,419 226 5,418
Sep 57% 595 3,401 174 4,169
Oct 52% 545 3,114 159 3,818
Nov 33% 346 1,976 101 2,422
Dec 24% 253 1,443 74 1,769
Annual
Average 56% 591 3,378 173 4,141
Based on this information, the annual average for additional overnight population from short -
term rentals is 4,141, the minimum (in January) is 1,617 and the maximum (in July) is 7,086.
Adding this number to the 2014 estimated year-round average resident population of 3,082,
results in an average overnight population of 7,223. Based on the occupancy rates during the
months of July and January, the peak monthly average overnight population is 10,168 and the
minimum monthly average population is 4,699.
It is important to note that the overnight population numbers above do not address one segment
of the overnight population, and that is “second home” owners, i.e. those people who own a
second home on Tybee Island, which they do not rent, but at which they occasionally vacation.
The second home owners also have the potential to affect the peak overnight population
numbers as they are likely to be occupying their second homes during peak tourism months. This
number, however, is more difficult to quantify and can only be estimated using the data sources
described herein, and this estimated population is described in Table 7.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 6
Table 7: Second Home Maximum Overnight Population
Source: US Census and Tybee Island Occupational Tax Database
Total number of “vacant units” per the 2010 Census 2,006
Total number of vacation rental units per Tybee Island 1,200
Number of remaining units, with the potential to be “Second Home” Units 806
Average number of guests per “Second Home” unit 5
Maximum “Second Home” overnight population 4,030
Adding the maximum “second home” overnight population number of 4,030 to the maximum
overnight population of 10,228, results in a potential maximum overnight population of 14,258.
While peak occupancy may only happen during the summer season, and the maximum estimated
overnight population may only occur once or twice a year, the City of Tybee Island must be
maintain the infrastructure to service this maximum overnight population year -round.
D. DAYTIME POPULATION
As a popular beach destination, Tybee Island not only has an increase in overnight population
during the peak summer months, it also has an increase in daytime population. This metric is
important because daytime visitors also place an additional strain on the City of Tybee Island’s
infrastructure and services during their brief stay on the Island. In an attempt to quantify the
additional daytime population during the summer months, EPG has reviewed the following
transportation studies/information sources to gather data on traffic counts:
City of Tybee Island Pedestrian and Traffic Study (2010)
Tybee Island Wave Ecology and The Highway 80 Challenge (2011)
City of Tybee Island Tourism Study (2014)
City of Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Study (2016)
The City of Tybee Island Police Department also maintains a traffic counter on Highway 80 near
Breezy Point that has been fully operational since May of 2014. The graph in Figure 1 was
generated utilizing the available data from this counter and illustrates the average, weekend day
average, and peak daily one-way traffic counts by month for the time period of May 2014 –
September 2015.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 7
Figure 1: Automobile Trips onto Tybee Island
The highest volume of traffic is during the peak summer months of May through July, further
corroborating the projected increase in summertime overnight population. As expected, the
average number of one-way trips onto Tybee Island is also greater on the weekends than during
mid-week, and the difference increases during summer months. The Tybee Island Traffic and
Parking Study reported that “during the summer, traffic on the weekend (Saturday) represents
an increase of between 38 and 60 percent over a typical weekday (Thursday).”
The Tybee Island Wave Ecology Report provides a peak daily traffic count of 16,173 for the week
of July 3, 2010, and estimates that each trip would represent an average of 2 people. The report
goes on to estimate that during peak times/events, such as the July 3 rd fireworks event, the
daytime population could exceed 30,000 people. If the metric of 2 people per tr ip were applied
to the daily traffic count data during the twelve-month period from October 2014 – September
2015, this would result in the daytime population estimates provided in Table 8.
Table 8: Traffic Counts and Daytime Population Estimate
Source: Tybee Island Police Department Traffic Counts
On-Island Trips Daytime Population
Daily Average 6,726 13,452
Peak Day (July 2015) 14,233 28,466
The data above is fairly consistent with the data presented in the Wave Ecology Study, and while
peak daily on-island trips can vary by a few thousand trips each year depending on which part of
the week major events like the July 3rd fireworks fall on, both studies indicate that there is
currently potential for a peak daytime population of at least 30,000 people. As much of the
overnight and resident populations are likely to say “on-island” during big events, it is reasonable
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
One-Way Trips
Month Average Weekend Day Average Peak Day
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 8
to assume that these populations may not be fully included in this estimate, and that the
maximum daytime population likely exceeds 30,000 people.
E. POPULATION SUMMARY
A summary of the various populations for Tybee Island is presented in Table 9 and Figure 2.
Table 9: Population Count Summary
1Does not account for second home population
2Assumes 100% occupancy of all units on Tybee Figure 2: Populations on Tybee Island
Population Metric Population
Resident Population (2014, est.) 3,082
Annual Average Overnight Population 7,223
Peak July Overnight Population1 10,168
Maximum Overnight Population2 14,198
Annual Average Daytime Population 13,453
Peak Daytime Population 30,000 +
Daytime
Ave.
13,453
Peak
30,000+Overnig
ht
Ave.
7,223
Peak
10,168
Max.
14,198
Reside
nt
3,082
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 9
2. RESOURCE LIMITATIONS
Due to Tybee Island’s status as a national tourism destination, the resident population, as
presented in the Census, is not an accurate depiction of the resources necessary to provide City
services. City infrastructure and public services must be sufficient enough to serve the overnight
and daytime populations, even as they peak during summer months. Since tourism based on
Tybee Island is a significant regional economic driver, it is to the benefit of the region as a whole
that the City has the resources necessary to serve this tourist population.
F. WATER WITHDRAWAL & WATER USE
The City of Tybee Island operates a water supply system that consists of three (3) water withdrawal
wells that pull water from the Upper Floridan Aquifer. The City is currently permitted to
withdraw an annual average of 0.916 million gallons per day (MGD), with a monthly average
limit of 1.6 MGD to allow for the peak usage associated with the summer tourism season.
In order to project peak water demands, it is first necessary to understand the per capita daily
water usage on Tybee Island. The Chatham County Water Supply Plan 2006 Update reported
the per capita daily water usage for Tybee Island at 216.7 gallons. However, this number is
misleading because it was calculated by simply dividing the annual average daily water usage in
2005 by the 2005 resident population number. The average annual daily water usage will
include the following elements that will skew the per capita water usage number 1) peak
summer water usage associated with peak short-term rental season, 2) the increase in
commercial water usage that occurs during the summer season, and 3) water used for irrigation
purposes during the growing season. All three of these factors will cause per capita water usage
to appear larger than it truly is. In addition, the resident population number was used, not the
overnight population. At no point during the year are the short-term rental units at 0%
occupancy so not including these people in the calculation further compounds the skew in the
per capita water usage. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the City of Tybee Island has
implemented a comprehensive Water Conservation Program since the per capita water usage
number was calculated in 2006, and it is likely that the per capita water usage has decreased as
a result.
Accordingly, EPG has utilized the following methodology to limit the undesirable variables and
recalculate the City’s per capita water usage for 2015. In order to reduce water usage
attributed to tourism, commercial use, and irrigation, the daily average water usage for the
months of January only from 2010 – 2014 was used and is presented in Table 10. Furthermore,
this number was divided by the minimum overnight population calculated in the month of
January (4,699). This number is greater than the resident population because, even though
January represents the low point of the tourism season, there is still a non-resident overnight
population on the island based on the occupancy numbers presented in the section above. As
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 10
shown in Table 11, the resulting per capita water usage is 117 gallons per day (GPD) which is
almost half of the usage reported in the 2006 report.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 11
Table 10: January Average Daily Water Usage
Source: Tybee Island Water and Sewer Department
Year January Daily Average Water
Withdrawal (MGD)
2010 0.56
2011 0.50
2012 0.51
2013 0.54
2014 0.65
5-Year Average 0.55
Table 11: Per Capita Water Usage
5-Yr Ave Water Withdrawal in
January (GPD)
Minimum Overnight Population in
January
Per Capita Water Usage
(GPD)
550,000 4,699 117
i. Correlation of Overnight Population with Water Usage
In an effort to provide documentation of the surge in summertime overnight population, EPG
reviewed the City’s monthly average water usage. The graph in Figure 3 illustrates the
significant increase in water usage, primarily associated with an increase in pop ulation during
summer months.
Figure 3: Monthly Average and Maximum Water Withdrawal
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
2
Jan-10Mar-10May-10Jul-10Sep-10Nov-10Jan-11Mar-11May-11Jul-11Sep-11Nov-11Jan-12Mar-12May-12Jul-12Sep-12Nov-12Jan-13Mar-13May-13Jul-13Sep-13Nov-13Jan-14Mar-14May-14Jul-14Sep-14Nov-14Monthly Water Withdrawal (MGD)
Daily Average Daily Max
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 12
Tybee Island’s peak summer month for tourism is July. An obvious and significant peak in usage
occurs during this month in all five years. In fact, in 2010, the water usage during the peak month
of July was 2.8 times greater than the usage in the off-season month of February.
ii. Tybee Island Water Withdrawal Permit Limitations
The Water Withdrawal Permit for the City of Tybee Island contains the following withdrawal
limits:
Monthly Average of 1.6 MGD
Existing Annual Average of 0.916 MGD
2020 Annual Average of 0.916 MGD
2025 Annual Average of 0.516 MGD
Figures 4 and 5 show the permit limits as they compare with the 2010 – 2014 water usage data.
Figure 4: Monthly Average Water Usage and Permit Limit
Figure 4 indicates that during summer months in four out of the last five years, the maximum
daily withdrawal exceeded 1.6 MGD, but the monthly daily average for all years was still within
the water withdrawal permit.
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
2
Jan-10Mar-10May-10Jul-10Sep-10Nov-10Jan-11Mar-11May-11Jul-11Sep-11Nov-11Jan-12Mar-12May-12Jul-12Sep-12Nov-12Jan-13Mar-13May-13Jul-13Sep-13Nov-13Jan-14Mar-14May-14Jul-14Sep-14Nov-14Monthly Water Withdrawal (MGD)
Daily Average Daily Max Permit Limit
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 13
Figure 5. Annual Daily Average Water Usage and Permit Limits
While Figure 5 shows that the City has not exceeded its annual average permit limitation during
the time period of 2010 – 2014, it shows that the City’s current water usage exceeds the proposed
annual average permit limit for 2025.
Using the per capita water usage number calculated above (117 GPD), the maximum population
that could be supported under Tybee Island’s current and future water withdrawal permit is
calculated in Table 12.
Table 12: Projected Maximum Population Supported under Water Withdrawal Permit Limits
Water Withdrawal MGD Population Supported
Monthly Average (Peak) 1.6 13,675
Existing Annual Average 0.916 7,829
2025 Annual Average 0.516 4,410
When comparing the numbers in Table 12 above with the overnight population estimates below,
it becomes clear that Tybee is currently close to or at the water withdrawal capacity needed to
serve the existing average annual population. Furthermore, the City’s annual average overnight
population will well exceed the 2025 water withdrawal limit, even without consideration for any
population or tourism industry growth.
0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Annual Daily Average and Permit Limitations
Annual Daily Average 2015 Annual Ave. Permit Limit 2025 Annual Ave. Permit Limit
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 14
In addition, the maximum overnight population number also exceeds the population that could
be supported under the current permit limitations in 2016 and 2025. This is consistent with the
water usage data illustrated in Figure 5 above.
It is also important to consider that there will be additional withdrawal capacity needed to serve
the additional commercial and irrigation needs in the summer, and that is not necessarily
accounted for in the estimates in Table 13.
Table 13: Population that Can Be Supported within Water Withdrawal Permit Limits
iii. Water Distribution Infrastructure System
The City’s water distribution system is relatively new, and the City’s engineer estimates that 80%
of the system is less than 20 years old. There is still about 100 ft. of asbestos pipe that needs to
be replaced, but the majority of the capital improvements needed to address deficiencies in the
distribution system have been completed.
The well pump houses associated with Tybee Island’s three wells are located on Van Horne Ave,
Butler Ave, and 14th Street. The Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Study has found that these well
houses, due to their low elevation at 11.3’, 8.0’, and 9.3’ respectively, are vulnerable to flooding,
storm surge, and sea level rise. After performing a cost benefit analysis based on the potential
capital damage and economic loss associated with flooding, the report recommends elevating
the Butler Ave and 14th Street well houses above the 100-year floodplain, (the area subjected to
a 1% chance of flooding in any given year). Discussions with the City’s engineer recommended
elevating the wells to 21.5 feet above MHT (mean high tide) which would be above the projected
storm surge for a Category 4 Hurricane. All three wells would need to be elevated to exceed this
benchmark and the project cost would be approximately $600,000.
iv. Alternative Water Supply
Due to the future limitations on the City’s current water supply source, the Upper Floridan
Aquifer, the City is working in partnership with the State of Georgia to install and test a
Cretaceous well, in the hope that this will provide an alternative sourc e for potable water, as it
Metric
Population
Based on
Occupancy
Population
Supported by
Water Permit
2016
Population
Supported by
Water Permit
2025
Annual Average Overnight Population 7,223 7,829 4,410
Peak Overnight Population (July) 10,168 13,675 13,675
Maximum Potential Overnight
Population 14,258 13,675 13,675
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 15
has on Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island had to decommission several Upper Floridan Wells
due to high chlorides resulting from the same salt water intrusion event that is the cause of Tybee
Island’s current permit limitations for water withdrawal from this aquifer. This $5 million project
was made possible by a grant from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.
At the time of this report, the well is being drilled and the test is ongoing; however, it is expected
that Tybee’s Cretaceous well is likely to produce sufficient water for the projected additional
need of approximately 0.8 MGD. In fact, the well will be sized to produce up to 1.5 to 2.0 MGD.
Due to its depth, the water it will produce is expected to be hot and re latively high in chlorides,
requiring treatment through a chiller and a reverse osmosis (RO) system, as well as mixing with
Upper Floridan water. The anticipated capital costs for the treatment system for a 1.0 MGD well
is $5 million with another $1.5 million needed to address discharge of the briny wastewater
produced through the RO process.
In addition to the capital costs of building the RO treatment plan, operational costs to produce
water on an ongoing basis are expected to increase from approximately $0.25 - $0.30/1,000
gallons of water withdrawal from the Upper Floridan to as much as $1.50/1,000 gallons for RO of
water from the Cretaceous Aquifer. Hilton Head’s current treatment costs to operate their RO
plant are reported to be approximately only $0.60/1,000 gallons; however, that would still be a
100% increase in the cost to produce 1,000 gallons of water.
There is also the challenge of disposing of the brine produced as a waste product of the RO
treatment process. Disposal may be achieved through pipes that run under the bed of the
Savannah Harbor, or through diffusers that are directed out into the open ocean. Both of these
options have significant challenges related to environmental permitting, impacts to aquatic life,
and construction. The City may also consider mixing the brine with the discharge from the WWTP,
to reduce the potential environmental impacts of discharging briny water into the local estuarine
environment. However, this would necessitate an additional or upsized discharge pipe as the
current WWTP discharge pipe is not sized to handle the combined capacity. Construction on the
currently WWTP discharge pipe would also have environmental permitting challenges;
nevertheless, discussion with the City’s engineer indicated that this may be the least impactful
way of discharging the briny waste from a future RO water treatment plant.
The alternative of buying and pumping water from the City of Savanah is not really a viable
option. Aside from the $10 - $12 million cost of the infrastructure to deliver Savannah water to
Tybee Island, it would also require additional treatment due to holding time in the long
conveyance system, further increasing the cost. In addition, environmental permitting of the
infrastructure would be difficult as the pipes would travel through some major wetland areas.
If the City elects to use the Cretaceous well for water supply and invests in construction of the
RO treatment plant, this new well will have a major impact on water rates. Further compounding
this effect, is Tybee Island’s limited ability to collect aide-to-construction, impact or tap fees from
new construction to pay for the capital costs of building the RO treatment system. The capital
and operational costs must instead be included in the water use rates. The City completed a rate
study several years ago and the recommendations have since been implemented; however, the
potential costs associated with the Cretaceous Well were not considered.
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G. WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
Tybee Island operates a water pollution control plant (WPCP), and the permitted discharge
limitations are described in Table 14.
Table 14: Tybee Island NPDES Wastewater Discharge Permit Limits
Flow - MGD Monthly Average Weekly Average
May – September 1.15 1.44
October – April 0.89 1.11
A review of Tybee Island’s monthly Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMR) from October 2012
through August of 2015, submitted to EPD per the City’s NPDES Wastewater Discharge Permit,
indicates that the wastewater discharge has exceeded or come close to exceeding permitted
limitations during the summer seasons of 2013, 2014, and 2015 (Figure 6). This has occurred
despite the higher discharge limitations afforded to the City of Tybee Island during the summer
months to allow for peak demands associated with the tourism season.
Figure 6: Wastewater Discharge Flow and Permit Limits
Tybee Island’s WPCP has also experienced a few daily water quality violations for ammonia and
total suspended solids (TSS), and there were historic permit violations for Ammonia, as shown in
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
Oct-12Dec-12Feb-13Apr-13Jun-13Aug-13Oct-13Dec-13Feb-14Apr-14Jun-14Aug-14Oct-14Dec-14Feb-15Apr-15Jun-15Aug-15Wastewater Discharge Flow (MGD)
Flow Average Flow Ave. Permit Limit
Flow Maximum Flow Max Permit Limit
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C O O N S , A M Y 17
Figure 7. To address this issue, the City has recently installed a new digester which will ameliorate
the WPCP’s ability to process TSS and ammonia.
Figure 7: WPCP Ammonia Discharge and Permit Limits
Review of the discharge data and discussions with the City’s Engineer indicate that the WPCP is
essentially at capacity for treatment. The WPCP in its current configuration can process 1.6 MGD
of wastewater flow for treatment; however, the WPCP discharge pipe is sized to handle 3.0 MGD.
Due to space limitations at the site, there is not room for expansion of the existing WPCP.
Therefore, if the City elects to upgrade the plant, the type of treatment process will have to be
upgraded from aerobic digesters to a membrane system in order to oc cupy the same footprint.
A permit increase for wastewater discharge flow will also result in the need to upgrade the WPCP
treatment system. As discharge flow allowances are increased, the limits for the individual water
quality parameters will be reduced, necessitating a higher level of treatment. A membrane
system would also allow the City to treat wastewater discharge to a higher degree, but the cost
to upgrade the WPCP would be substantial. Combined with the looming costs associated with
the RO treatment system for the Cretaceous well, the implications for the water and sewer rate
payers on Tybee Island is significant. While the City can treat its wastewater discharge to reuse
standards, distribution of reuse water (as opposed to direct discharge) is not a viable option due
to the limited places that could receive the irrigation water, the tight location of existing utilities,
and the need for an entirely new distribution system that would be likely be cost prohibitive.
The City’s Engineer reports that the wastewater collection system is in good condition, and that
50% collection system is less than 20 years old or has been relined in the last 20 years. The City
completed an Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Study a few years ago, and 90% of the recommended
projects have been completed. The I&I projects left to be completed are limited, and it is the
0
10
20
30
Ammonia (mg/L)
Monthly Average Maximum
Monthly Average Limit Weekly Average Limit
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C O O N S , A M Y 18
belief of the City Engineer that I&I is no longer a significant problem on the island. The City is in
the process of upgrading the pump stations and the associated force mains, which should further
reduce any remaining I&I. The City is performing these upgrades at a rate of one per year; two
have been completed and there are seven pump stations remaining. The cost of the pump station
upgrades are running between $25,000 and $100,000 each.
H. TRANSPORTATION & PARKING
i. U.S. Highway 80 (US 80) Capacity and Road Network Capacity
The City of Tybee is connected to the mainland by US 80. Between Talahi Island and Tybee Island,
US 80 is an approximately 5.5 mile, two-way, two-lane rural highway with intermittent passing
lanes. Two bridges exist along this stretch of US 80, 1) the Bull River Bridge and 2) Lazaretto Creek
Bridge. This roadway is the only connection from Tybee Island to the mainl and and is the sole
evacuation route for Tybee Island residents and visitors. It has also been designated as a future
bikeway in the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO)’s Long Range
Plan.
Currently, US 80 does not have any dedicated bicycle or pedestrian facilities and the Bull River
and Lazaretto Creek Bridges only support one lane of traffic in each direction with limited to no
shoulders to allow for traffic to pass an accident or for pedestrian/bicycle access. The McQueen’s
Island Historic Trail, a six-mile, former railroad right-of-way turned multi-use trail, runs along the
north side of US 80 between Bull River and the Fort Pulaski National Monument. Currently, this
trail can only be accessed by driving to the trail and parkin g at either the Fort Pulaski National
Monument or at a small parking area east of Bull River Bridge that is dedicated parking for trail
access. Currently, this trail does not extend to or connect to either of the bridges along US 80.
The trail is well utilized by the local community as well as tourists, but its use and ability to serve
as a safe alternative transportation route to and from Tybee Island, is limited because of its lack
of connectivity.
Travel between Tybee Island and the mainland and Talahi I sland is also currently hampered by
limited passing lanes along this stretch of US 80 and these limitations become more challenging
when traffic incidents occur and during peak tourism season, weekends, special events and
festivals. The existing roadway also experiences flooding during King Tide events and coastal
storms, and, as a result, is periodically closed. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
has also determined that Lazaretto Creek Bridge is structurally deficient and eligible for
replacement.
Various improvements to this corridor have been suggested and studied over the past 20 years
because of these community concerns about the reliability and safety of access to and from
Tybee Island. These various improvements and studies have at times been the subject of political
and public debate because of conflicting needs and concerns regarding public safety and road
congestion, environmental impacts, and construction costs, as well as concerns regarding
potential impacts to the “character” of Tybee Island that could indirectly result from expansion
of Highway 80. After completing various studies and gathering public input, GDOT and CORE MPO
concluded that widening US 80 into a four-lane highway was infeasible because their
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transportation models indicated this highway functions at a high level of service most of the time
and that construction and environmental impacts would be too costly. Planning efforts
subsequently focused on roadway and bridge improvements that could be made to the existing
two-lane highway.
In May 2011, the CORE MPO helped coordinate a study of US 80 and Tybee Island to document
the mobility challenges associated with tourism and special events on Tybee Island and develop
short-term strategies to address public safety concerns along US 80. The results of the Study were
presented in a Technical Report titled Tybee Island Wave Ecology and The Highway 80 Challenge,
dated May 2011.
Four short-term strategies were selected for implementation to address transportation
deficiencies along US 80, including:
1) Installing road public safety signage
2) Establishing a bus or shuttle service during special events and during peak tourism events
as well as an ongoing bus/shuttle service
3) Utilizing signal timing and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
4) Using social media for dissemination of information to the general public.
Concurrently, the CORE MPO also commissioned an additional study that began in 2010 to
examine current and future transportation deficiencies along the segment of US 80 that connects
Tybee Island to the mainland, including Bull River and Lazaretto Creek bridges, and
recommended alternatives to address those deficiencies. The Study, titled “US 80 Bridges
Replacement Study (P.I. No. 0009379),” was concluded and released in 2012. A copy of this Study
may be accessed through the CORE MPO’s website at:
http://www.thempc.org/docs/lit/corempo/studies/us80/finalreport.pdf
The CORE MPO’s Study of deficiencies along this US 80 corridor included an evaluation of current
and future deficiencies related to travel demand and operational conditions (i.e., road capacity),
system linkages, safety, and roadway design. The following is a summary of findings from this
study:
Roadway capacity was found to be generally sufficient, according to a c omparison of the
capacity calculations with the estimated demand from the travel demand model and with
the observed demand from special traffic counts during a summer holiday period.
Capacity is sometimes exceeded when holidays overlap weekends.
System linkages are poor for bicyclists and pedestrians, due to current characteristics of
the road and bridges and lack of connections to the existing McQueen’s Island Trail.
Narrow shoulders, or shoulders filled with rumble strips, as well as high motor vehicle
speeds are the problematic characteristics for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Regarding safety in general, the concerns include crash rates, bridge sufficiency ratings,
and roadway flooding. The crash rate, from 2006 through 2008, was higher in the corridor
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than the statewide average for rural principal arterials in that period, 45% higher on
average, although there was much variation among years.
The Lazaretto Creek Bridge had a sufficiency rating of 41.45 at the time of this evaluation;
a rating below 50 means it is a candidate for some type of improvement in the bridge
prioritization process by the Georgia Department of Transportation.
Flooding, due to peak high tides, affects both directions of travel on US 80 for one to three
hours and for an average of three days per year. The eastbound lane is affected for an
additional two times per year.
The usable shoulders on the bridges and the causeway are narrower than recommended
for a high-speed road that serves as a bikeway, and also do not allow space for disabled
vehicles to be adequately cleared from traffic flow. Expectations of drivers wishing to go
through the corridor with no delay are in conflict with the needs of some drivers to access
local sites [Ft. Pulaski and McQueen’s Trail], as the latter must slow or stop in the travel
lane, sometimes even in a passing lane.
The CORE MPO’s Study developed suggested options to address the identified deficiencies and
then combined these into six Alternatives that were then scored and evaluated for feasibility.
The construction of additional thoroughfares (i.e., road widening by constructing additional lanes
along this stretch of US 80) were not included in these Alternatives. “Alternative 3” scored the
highest in the Study evaluation and was recommended as the option to move forward in the next
stages of project development overseen by GDOT. Recommendations for improvements to the
existing two-lane highway for this Alternative included the following:
Replacement of the Lazaretto Creek and Bull River Bridges with new bridges that included
two traffic lanes, ten-foot bikable shoulders and a ten-foot barrier separated multi-use
path. The new bridges would be located adjacent to the existing bridges on the north side
of US 80 and the existing bridges would be removed.
Roadway improvements in the form of ten-foot paved bikable shoulders along each lane
of US 80;
Re-striping the roadway near Fort Pulaski to allow for a left hand and right hand turn lane;
Extension of the existing McQueen’s Island Trail to the new Lazaretto Creek Bridge; and
Construction of an 18-space parking area at the entrance to McQueen’s Island Trail with
a left hand turn lane. A side-path would connect the existing trail to the path on the new
Bull River Bridge.
GDOT is using the results and recommendations from the CORE MPO’s 2012 US 80 Bridges
Replacement Study as a baseline for their ongoing, multi-phase planning efforts for this corridor.
Possible roadway elevations in some sections will also be evaluated for sections of US 80 where
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C O O N S , A M Y 21
flooding has been an issue. GDOT has also proposed that, if constructed, the ten -foot paved
bikable shoulders along each lane of Highway 80 could be used as additional lanes for automobile
traffic in the event of an emergency to ease traffic congestion.
GDOT is now funding the implementation project (US 80 Bridges and Road Improvements, P.I.
No. 0010560). GDOT’s Scoping and Preliminary Engineering Phase is expected to start by July
2017. GDOT’s scoping phase will look at need, feasibility, and issues that may arise if the
recommended improvements are implemented. Scoping will take three years due to the various
required phases such as surveying, environmental analysis, and public involvement.
Environmental studies required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) will be
conducted, including environmental approval of a preferred Alternative. Future phases will
include right-of-way (ROW) assessments and acquisitions and a Final Design study. According to
GDOT, the National Park Service (NPS) owns 90% of the land within the project limits and GDOT
maintains an easement for the current US 80 ROW. The schedule for these future projects has
not been released to the general public at this time.
As noted above, GDOT has proposed that side path connections from both bri dges be
constructed to connect to the McQueen’s Island Historic Trail, and these side path connections
will be designed and funded by GDOT in conjunction with the other US 80 improvements.
However, while GDOT does support the eastern extension of the McQue en’s Island Historic Trail
towards Lazaretto Creek Bridge, they are not currently assuming financial or planning and design
responsibility for this trail extension.
ii. Parking
The average number of day trips on to the island, as reported in Section 1.3, was 6,726, and the
maximum number recorded during the July 4th weekend in 2015 was 14,233. The Tybee Island
Tourism Report found that Tybee Island has 1,044,000 visitors annually. Understandably, a
percentage of these trips represent the automobiles of island residents or overnight visitors
commuting onto the island, and their vehicles would be parked at their home or rental unit.
However, if every resident and one person from every occupied short-term rental unit made one
vehicle trip a day on and off of Tybee Island, that would only reduce the daily average to 2,76 2
trips and daily maximum to 9,505 trips. Each trip likely results in a need to park for some length
of time. While trip counts are recorded over the course of a 24 -hour period, this still represents
a significant parking need, especially at peak hours during festival events and during “beach
hours” in the summer months. The Tybee Island Tourism Study looked at peak travel issues and
provided the following graph, in Figure 8, to illustrate typical travel patterns onto Tybee Island
during the month of June. This graph clearly demonstrates that majority of vehicles traveling
onto Tybee Island during the peak summer season do so between the hours of 10:00 AM and
4:00 PM, creating a significant parking demand during those hours.
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Inevitably the demand for and lack of available parking during peak hours can have an impact on
the island and its residents. Vehicles idling and circling the island looking for available parking can
cause traffic congestion; present a safety hazard for pedestrians, bicyclists and other vehicles
accessing the beach; and cause air quality issues. During these high demand periods, some
residential property owners have also experienced illegal parking on their private property,
limiting their access and potentially damaging their property.
i. Parking Space Inventory & Availability
The City of Tybee Island completed a Traffic and Parking Study in 2005 to evaluate existing traffic
and parking conditions in the City of Tybee Island and to make recommendations to address
identified issues. As part of the parking inventory, observations were made regarding utilization
of the available spaces. The following observations were made during the peak mid -day period
on Saturday, July 17, 2004.
North Beach Parking Lot was full by 2:00 PM.
South Beach Parking Lots were full by 1:00 PM.
Mid-Island Beach Access On-Street Parking (metered spaces located at the beach access
points and along US 80) were predominantly utilized, but no single location was 100 %,
except for Tybrisa Street.
As part of this study, a Parking Facility Inventory was completed and included public pay lots,
private lots and on-street parking along the US 80/Butler Avenue corridor. At the time this study
was conducted, the consultant identified 1,654 public parking spaces. The Study went on to make
Figure 8: Volume of Vehicle Flow During the Peak Season
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C O O N S , A M Y 23
the following observations and recommendations regarding the actual and perceived lack of
parking on Tybee Island.
1. Beach Access Signage
The utilization of on-street parking along US 80, especially in the Mid-Island area, is
relatively low; however, visitors believe that there is no available parking. Signage
should be added indicating the location of public beach access to encourage utilization
of this available parking, and spread out the demand focused on the pay lots serving the
North Beach and South Beach areas.
2. Satellite Parking and Shuttle System
The City needs to increase its overall inventory of available parking spaces; however,
there is limited available land to do so in the South and North Beach areas near beach
access. Identify satellite/remote parking areas and use shuttle service to deliver people
to South Beach and North Beach.
3. Parking Lot Improvements
The circulation patterns, at that time, in the North Beach and South End Public Parking
Lots was poor and in the North Beach area, parking spots were not completely defined.
This study stated that “[future] visitor demand will be limited to the availability of parking spaces
on the island,” as opposed to access to the island provided by the Level of Service on US 80.
Since this time, the City has made some improvements to public parking lots and has converted
much of the public parking meters to Pay and Display (P&D) Parking Kiosks. This has allowed for
expansion of the parking inventory and better tracking of utilization. The City’s current inventory
of public, delineated spaces is 2,091. There are also a total of 234 approved private parking
spaces, for a total of 2,325 total delineated parking spaces. The private parking space inventory
can vary from year to year as private parking lots require annual permit approval by the Tybee
Island City Council. The 2016 private parking lots are described in Table 15.
Table 15: 2016 Private Parking Inventory
Name Location Number of Spots
Sunrise Parking 1511 Butler Ave 39
Ocean Plaza Beach
Resort
1401 Strand 128
Renee G Bridges 1001 Butler Ave 30
Bramble Family 215 Lovell 13
Joyce Prescott 214 2nd Ave 12
Jack Rosenberg 203 14th Street 12
Interviews with Tybee Island’s Parking Services staff indicate that there are still some non-
delineated public parking locations within the City ROW. If the ROW area is not near a P&D kiosk,
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C O O N S , A M Y 24
then Parking Services does not typically consider these areas to be delineated spaces and will not
ticket the vehicle for not paying. The City has determined that it is not financially beneficial to
purchase and maintain P&D kiosks in remote areas where parking only occurs on busy summe r
weekends. In addition, many local visitors to Tybee Island may know someone who owns a
residential property on the island where friends and relatives are permitted to park when they
visit the island. Estimating the number of additional private parking sp ots this creates is not
possible; however, it is important to recognize that these areas do represent additional parking
opportunities for visitors to Tybee Island.
j. Parking Issues Identification
In order to identify current issues related to parking availa bility on Tybee Island, EPG reviewed
the findings of the 2005 Traffic and Parking Study, conducted interviews with City staff, and
received comments from stakeholders. The following issues were identified.
1) Perception of Parking Availability
In order to address the issues with perceived availability of parking, first identified in the
2005 Traffic and Parking Study, the City created a Parking Application for smart phones.
This app is designed to let visitors know where parking is available on the island and the
percent utilization. Parking Services staff update this app on an hourly basis during the
summer to show how full (percentage-wise) the three main parking areas are. Parking
Services divides the Island into three parking areas: 1) South End (south of 14th), 2)
Middle Island (14th north to 2nd), and 3) North Beach (the Lighthouse area). The app
does not currently store previously entered information regarding the percent
utilization of the parking areas; however, Parking Service staff who enter the data into
the app reported that every weekend in the summer and on big holidays and festival
days, North Beach and South End parking areas are 99% full. Mid-Island is typically 85%,
mirroring the findings in the 2005 Traffic and Parking Study.
2) South End Parking Demand
Parking Services staff stated that the South End is the most overtaxed parking area.
During summer weekends, visitors potentially spend significant time circling the area
looking for parking, as opposed to looking for parking in other areas such as Mid-Island.
The City has implemented, and then discontinued, a couple of initiatives to address this
issue to little effect. The City erected gates on Butler Ave. past Tybrisa Ave. to block
traffic from entering the South End when parking was at capacity; however, cars then
proceeded to line up on Butler Ave, outside the gate, causing a traffic issue. Public
Works has also used signage in the South End to direct people to other parking areas
with limited success. Parking Services staff explained that, in their experience, people
would prefer to wait to park close to the beach area they wished to visit, i.e. the Pier
and Pavilion area, as opposed to parking in a more distant location and carrying all of
their belongings to the beach.
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C O O N S , A M Y 25
3) Commercial Parking Requirements
The City Planning and Zoning staff have received comments from potential commercial
developers that parking requirements are hampering future commercial development
along US 80. The Zoning ordinance requires that any new commercial development or
use provide parking on-site if it is not within 1,000 feet of a public parking lot. Therefore,
vacant buildings and properties on US 80 that are developed as commercial businesses
have to provide on-site parking. Because space available for commercial development
along this corridor is already limited, the requirements for on-site parking can be cost-
prohibitive and impede commercial development of this corridor. The City has had
preliminary discussions regarding using some portion of the City’s unopened ROWs
along this corridor to provide public parking. The potential benefits to pursuing this
concept would be: 1) to provide public parking so that future business on US 80 don’t
have to use their valuable lot space to do so and 2) to provide additional parking for
visitors to Tybee Island.
4) Satellite Parking Lots
There have been previous attempts at staging satellite parking areas and operating a
shuttle service to move people from their vehicles to their desired beach access point,
but the City staff did not perceive it as a successful initiative. As stated above, there was
consensus that most visitors to the beach want to be within walking distance to their car
since they are likely carrying a lot of personal items. Furthermore, there was concern
about how the City would charge for this service. Specifically, if the City charged for the
remote parking itself, the City staff felt that any parking shuttle service must be free of
charge lest it become cost prohibitive for people to use. However, under this model, the
cost burden of the shuttle service would fall on the City, and would likely need to be
subsidized.
5) Parking Garage
Due to their perceived cost/benefit ratio, the City has never seriously considered the
construction of a public parking garage, despite the fact that it has been mentioned in
several planning documents including the 2005 Traffic Study and the City’s 2008
Masterplan. Parking Services staff stated that while there is a great deal of pressure for
parking during summer weekends and special events, there is sufficient available
parking during the rest of the year. Their perspective is that a public garage would only
be full for approximately 16 – 24 weekends per year, and it would not result in a viable
financial model for such a project. However, Parking Services staff did identify the Hotel
Tybee property as a location with the potential to support a parking garage, due to its
proximity to the beach. The City could potentially consider a public/private partnership
to build a parking garage at this location which could make the project more feasible.
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C O O N S , A M Y 26
Public input provided by a member of the TAG expressed support for the idea of a
parking garage in the C1 district on the South End of the island and called attention to
the cost to the City in terms of lost revenue from visitors and quality of life for island
residents to NOT address the parking issue. A parking garage could be sited to “funnel”
visitors to the downtown commercial district with places to shop, dine, and lay in the
sun. Having ample parking in C1 could accomplish the following:
Direct traffic to a parking facility conveniently located near the most popular
beach for day visitors - with the pier, public restrooms, and tourism-based
businesses. This could provide additional support to these business by pedestrian
use in this commercial zone once visitors find a parking spot.
Reduce traffic congestion and idling cars circling for parking in the South End
where it is most difficult to find parking during peak weekends.
Reduce illegal parking in residents’ front and side yards.
Stop traffic from overflowing into neighboring residential areas west of Butler
Ave., thereby protecting the quality of life and pedestrian environment in these
residential neighborhoods
A parking garage could be designed to serve dual purposes. In addition to parking, it
could offer public green space or recreational area on top, such as a pool, waterslide, or
putt-putt. Public restrooms and/or a public safety office could also be located in the
structure. This would increase the benefit and utilization of the structure in the off
season, and potentially address stormwater issues created by the construction of the
garage.
6) Special Events Parking
City staff do not feel that lack of parking prevents people from holding or attending
special events on Tybee Island. The City requires special event planners to identify
parking areas and use remote parking when necessary. The event planner is then
responsible for providing signage and volunteers to direct vendors/visitors to the
satellite parking and providing shuttle service when necessary. For example, if an event
is planned on the south end of Tybee Island, event planners often identify satellite
parking at the North Beach parking lot. City staff did note that there have be en
instances where illegal parking on residential ROWs became a problem during certain
events, and they are more likely to experience these types of issues when the event
takes place in a parking lot and parking spaces are lost.
7) Lack of Alternative Modes of Transportation
It is generally accepted that if there were more viable alternative transportation
opportunities, there would be less of a need for visitors to drive and park their vehicles
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C O O N S , A M Y 27
on Tybee Island, thereby lessening parking concerns and reducing traffic congestion.
However, there are very limited options for getting to or around the island for people
without a personal vehicle. Staff indicated that the City is reluctant to develop a formal
program for shuttling visitors on and off island due to the liability and cost implications.
The Coastal Regional Commission operates the Savannah – Tybee Island Shuttle, which
runs Friday – Sunday, four times per day. However, the ridership is low, and the
stakeholders felt that there is not enough promotion of this service locally.
K. STORMWATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY
The City of Tybee Island operates a public drainage system that serves to convey stormwater
runoff to local rivers, tidal creeks, marshes, and the ocean. The system components have been
inventoried and are summarized in the table below.
Table 16: Stormwater System Inventory
Structure Number or Length
Inlets & Catch Basins 363
Outfalls 38
Ditches 10,000 feet
Storm Sewer Lines 41,700 feet
The City is required to implement a stormwater management program in compliance with the
NPDES Phase I Medium MS4 Permit, as required by provisions of the Georgia Water Quality
Control Act and the Federal Clean Water Act. This permit requires the development of a
Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP), to address the following program elements, as
stipulated in CFR 122.26(d)(2)(iv)(A) through 122.26(d)(2)(iv)(D):
• Structural and Source Control Measures
• Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
• Industrial Facility Stormwater Runoff Control
• Construction Site Runoff Management
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has previously required the City of Tybee
Island to expand its SWMP to include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to address the
following required modifications:
• Impaired Waterways, i.e. 303(d) listed stream segments
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• Highly Visible Pollutant Sources
• Public Education/Public Involvement
• Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
• Development of an Enforcement Response Plan
• Development of a Green Infrastructure Plan
• Post Construction Stormwater Control
Compliance with this permit and implementation of the City’s SWMP is intended to protect and
improve water quality in local rivers, marshes and creeks by reducing the amount of non -point
source pollution that is conveyed through the City’s drainage system. Through this program, the
City has educated the public and businesses about best practices to reduce stormwater pollution,
and has developed a more proactive approach to drainage system maintenance. The City also
performs illicit discharge and water quality monitoring that will provide useful data, over time,
to evaluate the success of this program.
i. Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
As a barrier island, Tybee Island has unique stormwater and flooding issues which are
complicated by tidal influences and sea level rise. The “Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation
Plan” explores several steps that the City of Tybee Island can take to become more resilient over
time to sea level rise and the resulting flooding issues. Overall, the report serves as an initial effort
to characterize vulnerabilities, explore potential adaptation actions, and recommend
implementation of those identified actions that show clear benefit. The City of Tybee Island
partnered with researchers and outreach professionals from Georgia Sea Grant, the University of
Georgia, and Stetson University on this project.
Figure 9: Flooding on U.S. Highway 80 during a King Tide Event in October 2015 (Credit: Tybee Island
Police Department)
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C O O N S , A M Y 29
Sea-level rise has been
documented from a long-
term, NOAA, tide gauge at
Fort Pulaski, located within
several miles of the City of
Tybee Island. Since
installation in 1935, sea-
level has risen 10 inches.
Records from this station
have also shown the
frequency of “nuisance”
flooding steadily increasing
in the past several decades,
including a record of 23
separate “nuisance” floods
in 2015, the most of any year
since the tide guage was
installed. NOAA defines a
“nuisance” flood when the
water level exceeds 5.2 ft.
above NAVD88 (~9.2 ft.
above MLLW), and at this
depth, minor saltwater
flooding occurs on roads and
yards in Tybee Island. Figure
9 shows an example of US 80
being flooded during a king
tide event in October 2015.
When this roadway is
flooded, it has significant impact on public safety and the local economy, as it is the sole access
road for the Island. Adaptive planning efforts for the City of Tybee Island were focused on a 50 -
year time frame. When meeting participants worked with the project team to decide on the rate
of sea-level rise to be used in the planning efforts, they decided on three scenarios of sea -level
rise: (1) Low, (2) Intermediate, and (3) High. The Low scenario was based on a linear extrapolation
of the Fort Pulaski record, and the Intermediate and High scenarios were based on the widely
cited sea-level rise curves that were developed by climate scientists Martin Vermeer and Stefan
Ramhstorf.1 Using 2010 as the base year, the predicted sea-level rise by 2060 is 6 in., 14 in., and
31 in. for the Low, Intermediate, and High scenarios, respectively. Figure 10 presents NOAA’s
predictions for global sea level rise.
Table 17 illustrates the expected increase in flooding events over the 50-year planning horizon
for US 80 under the three sea level rise scenarios.
Table 17. Analysis of Flooding Frequency and Duration
Figure 10: NOAA Predictions for Global Sea Level Rise (Courtesy of
Evans et al., 2016)
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C O O N S , A M Y 30
Metric 2009-2012
Average
Sea-Level Rise Scenario (2060)
Low Intermediate High
Annual Frequency of Flood Events 8 30 125 540
Annual Duration of Flooding (hours) 5.5 37 200 1,250
Note: Flood conditions are categorized as nuisance flooding (5.2 ft. above NAVD88).
Tidal flooding during king tide conditions is regularly observed in several areas on Tybee Island,
including many in the southwestern quadrant of island. Many of these flooding events are
caused by a back-up of stormwater systems when higher tides push flow back into swales,
ditches, and underground pipe conveyances. This problem is exacerbated when high tide events
occur simultaneous with significant rain events. An example is presented in Figure 11.
Figure 11: Saltwater Flooding of Yards and Streets during a King Tide on November 14, 2012 (Courtesy
of Evans et al., 2016)
Based on topography from the 1-foot LIDAR as well as the assessed value of property, the authors
identified those areas on Tybee Island most at risk for flooding and economic damage due to King
Tide event in a 1-foot sea level rise scenario. The map in Figure 12, illustrates potential economic
losses due to high tide flooding on a block by block basis.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 31
Figure 12: Annual Expected Damage from High Tide Flooding (Courtesy of Tybee Island Sea Level Rise
Executive Summary)
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 32
Through a series of public meetings, researchers solicited input from public officials and local
citizens about unique flooding issues they face. The authors worked with the public to identify
local assets at-risk from sea-level rise, review sea-level rise adaptation strategies, and choose the
rates of sea-level rise to be used in the adaptation planning process. This process was essential
to gain institutional knowledge on vulnerable areas and anecdotal information on historic
flooding events. The five major adaptation actions that were identified through this process are:
1. Elevate the first floor of the City’s three well houses and electronic components to 3 ft.
above the 100-year floodplain.
2. Elevate the US 80 causeway between Wilmington Island and Tybee Island to 3 ft. above
current grade.
3. Retrofit low-lying stormwater infrastructure to prevent flooding from tidewater backflow.
4. Construct a back-island sea wall, at a height of 3 ft. over the current nuisance tidal
flooding level, to prevent bank overflow in low-lying areas.
5. Increase frequency of beach nourishment relative to increased sea-level rise out to 2060.
For three of the five action items, a benefit-cost ratio was calculated by evaluating the potential
in cost savings from avoided capital and economic damage. The cost s avings from damage
avoided and the benefit-cost ratios for these action items are summarized in Table 18. When the
benefit-cost ratio is less than 1.0, pursuing the action item is not favorable at this time. Details
of the benefit-cost analysis and calculations can be found in the report. As a reference, the
estimated cost to elevate a well pump house was $150,000 each, add stormwater backflow
preventers and upgrade the stormwater system (including recent expansion of capacity along the
14th St. corridor) was $3 million, and install an engineered concrete sea wall at a height of 8.2 ft.
above NAVD88 was $35 million.
Table 18: Summary of Sea Leve Rise Mitigation Actions with Calculated Benefit-Cost Ratios.
Action Item
(Cost)
Evaluation Method Estimated Cost of Damage for Each Sea
Level Rise Scenario
Low Intermediate High
Elevate Well House
on Van Horne Ave.
($150,000)
Cumulative 50-yr Total Loss
Damage Assessment $17,034 $29,713 $65,551
Benefit-Cost Ratio 0.11 0.2 0.44
Elevate Well House
on 14th St.
($150,000)
Cumulative 50-yr Total Loss
Damage Assessment $458,740 $534,054 $828,181
Benefit-Cost Ratio 3.06 3.56 5.52
Elevate Well House
on Butler Ave.
Cumulative 50-yr Total Loss
Damage Assessment $2,125,737 $2,329,927 $2,974,840
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 33
Action Item
(Cost)
Evaluation Method Estimated Cost of Damage for Each Sea
Level Rise Scenario
Low Intermediate High
($150,000) Benefit-Cost Ratio 14.17 15.53 19.83
Stormwater Backflow
Preventers and
Stormwater System
Upgrades
($3,000,000)
Damage Avoided (Net Present
Value) $15,400,000 $36,200,000 $39,200,000
Benefit-Cost Ratio
5.13 12.07 13.07
Sea Wall
($35,000,000)
Damage Avoided (Net Present
Value) $700,000 $3,600,000 $60,800,000
Benefit-Cost Ratio 0.02 0.1 1.74
Note: Highlighted cells indicate that Benefit-Cost ratio is greater than 1.0, meaning that the potential cost
savings from capital and economic damage avoided outweighs the cost of installing the action item.
Based on the assessment for elevating the well pump houses, the Butler Ave. pump house had
the highest risk of flooding and highest benefit-cost ratio (range: 14.17–19.83), so it should be
elevated as soon as is practical. The 14th St. pump house should also be elevated in the near
term because it had a benefit-cost ratio ranging from 3.06 to 5.52. The benefit-cost results for
the third pump house, Van Horne Ave., did not indicate an immediate need for action. The
authors noted that conservative estimates of water supply disruption following a cata strophic
flood event were used, and the results do not account for possible contamination of the water
source associated with storm surge flooding. Therefore, the Van Horne Ave. pump house should
still be included in future assessments to determine suitability for elevation or other
improvements to improve flooding resilience.
Tidal flooding during king tide conditions is regularly observed in several areas on Tybee Island,
including many in the southwestern quadrant of island. Many of these flooding even ts are
caused by a back-up of stormwater systems when higher tides push flow back into swales,
ditches, and underground pipe conveyances. Stormwater backflow preventers alone are
expected to provide significant prevention of floodwater penetration for tid es up to 6.2 ft.
NAVD88, 1 ft. above the current tidal flooding stage, but then bank overflow would render the
backflow preventers ineffective as a stand-alone flood prevention strategy. Overall, the
stormwater retrofits were considered to be a good initi al investment. The sea wall is not
expected to provide benefit until the tides regularly exceed 6.2 ft. Based on the large cost of the
sea wall, the High sea-level rise scenario is the only one where cost-saving benefits outweigh the
cost, but it is only marginal (1.74). Further pursuit of a sea wall adaptation is not recommended
at this time.
l. Beach Renourishment
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C O O N S , A M Y 34
The Army Corps of Engineers recently completed the most recent beach renourishment project
in early 2016. The 3.5-mile-long project was initially constructed in 1974 with a 50-year project
life, with periodic renourishments planned to occur every 7 years. The beach was last renourished
in 2008. The renourishment process involves using a cutterhead dredge to move about 1.7 million
cubic yards of high quality sand from an area located 1.5 miles from the southern tip of Tybee
Island. The deposited sand would be enough to compensate for the erosion expected to occur
over the subsequent nine years. The project included placing sand up to the north terminal groin.
The Tybee Island Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan noted that beach renourishment is an important
action item for flood protection and the tourism economy. In 2024, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineer’s current authorization from Congress for beach renourishment projects on Tybee
Island expires. The Plan suggests that a priority for future beach renourishment projects and the
negotiation of a new authorization should include maintenance of flood protection under a
condition of accelerating sea-level rise. Based on the damages sustained by some communities
in the Northeast during Superstorm Sandy, the City of Tybee is already investigating the
possibility of augmenting their sand dune system to help protect the Island from storm surge
during hurricanes.
m. US Highway 80 Considerations
The authors did not include a benefit-cost analysis for raising US 80 because the project lacked
the scope to perform an engineering-scale benefit-cost assessment of a major highway corridor.
However, the substantial tidal flooding of US 80 in 2015 (23 separate events) highlights the
vulnerabilities of the existing roadway elevation and provides renewed motivation for ensuring
that concerns about long-term public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and disaster resilience
are incorporated into the final US 80 bridge replacement and road bed improvement project. As
described earlier in this plan, GDOT is in the process of planning and designing Highway 80
improvements which will include elevation of the road bed. In the recently released letter, issued
by GDOT on June 13, 2016 in response to public comments received at the November 17, 2015
Public Information Open House, DOT states that they are currently considering elevating the road
surface to 7.5 above MSL, which equates to an elevation of approximately 12 to 18 in. above the
current road surface. Per the comment and recommendation in the Tybee Island Sea Level Rise
Adaptation Plan about flooding conditions only worsening for the sole access road for Tybee
Island, US 80, it is important for sea-level rise to be factored into ongoing engineering plans when
replacing the two bridges along US 80 and modernizing and elevating the roadway.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 35
N. SOLID WASTE
i. Solid Waste Collection
Atlantic Waste Services currently provides municipal solid waste collection, yard waste collection,
and recycling services to the City of Tybee Island. The Island is split into (4) four zones, each
representing a service day Monday through Thursday. Garbage and recycling are picked up on
the same day in each of the four zones. Yard waste will be collected on the entire island on
Fridays. Garbage collection of “landfill
only waste” will be picked up once per
week in 96 gallon carts with identifying
colors.
Recycling is collected single stream in
96 gallon carts with identifying colors,
and includes paper, cardboard,
newspapers, magazines, junk mail,
plastics (1-7), and metal cans
(aluminum and steel.) Grocery store
plastic bags, styrofoam, film, glass and
bubble wrap are not accepted. Atlantic
Waste Services reports that the
current market does not support glass
recycling because it costs more to
process, and it’s a lower quality
material than the raw virgin sand
material needed to make new glass.
In an effort to address the issue of
plastic bag littering and marine plastics
pollution, the City has initiated a
plastic film recycling program that is
detailed in the image to the right. Drop
off locations are located at the
Campground, Chu’s Department Store,
City Hall, Tybee Market IGA, Visitor’s
Center, and the YMCA.
The Tybee Island Department of Public
Works collects the trash and recyclables daily from solid waste and recycling stations located at
the beach and other public facilities and brings that material to the transfer station at the Polk
Street Yard, where they are collected by Atlantic Waste. VisitTybee.com reports that the Tybee
Island Department of Public Works collects approximately 4 tons of trash daily from the beach
areas during the off-season. In season, the amount of trash removed ranges from 6 to 15 tons
daily. The day after special events, the total can reach 35 tons. The Department of Public Works
will accept municipal solid waste, recycling and yard waste from residents at the transfer station
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 36
for a fee; however, residents are strongly encouraged to use the curbside service provided by
Atlantic Waste.
ii. Disposal Trends
Information regarding disposal trends was provided to the City by the City’s previous solid waste
contractor Waste Pro. Monthly data on disposal of municipal solid waste and recycling was
provided for the time period of October 2008 through August of 2015. Weight of municipal solid
waste and recycling collected through curbside collection service as well as directly from Publi c
Works transfer stations is summarized in the Figures 13 and 14.
Figure 13: Municipal Solid Waste and Recycling Collection and Trends for Curbside Collection
Figure 13 illustrates an increase in both municipal solid waste disposal and recycling over th e
time period of 2008 through 2015, which indicates an increase in the generation of solid waste
over that time period. There is also an obvious increase in solid waste disposal during the summer
months each year, coinciding with the tourism season. There does not appear to be a similar
cyclical trend in recycling tonnage, which indicates that tourist are not properly utilizing recycling
services. It is also important to note that glass is no longer accepted, and as one of the heaviest
materials that is typically recycled, it is likely to decrease the tonnage of materials being recycled
in the future.
The data provided for solid waste and recycling collected from Public Works only spans the time
period of April 2013 through September of 2015. This data shows a substantial increase in the
tonnage of solid waste collected. This can be attributed primarily to collection of trash from the
beach and other public facilities, as most residents utilize the curbside service for disposal of their
household garbage. There is also a dramatic cyclical nature to the amount of trash collected, with
the peaks again occurring during tourist season. There are not similar trends in recyclables
collection, which remained relatively steady during this time period.
0
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Oct-08Jan-09Apr-09Jul-09Oct-09Jan-10Apr-10Jul-10Oct-10Jan-11Apr-11Jul-11Oct-11Jan-12Apr-12Jul-12Oct-12Jan-13Apr-13Jul-13Oct-13Jan-14Apr-14Jul-14Oct-14Jan-15Apr-15Jul-15Monthly Weight of Curbside Collection (Tons)
Solid Waste Recycling
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 37
Figure 14: Solid Waste and Recycling Collection and Trends for Department of Public Works
O. ENERGY USE
Electrical demand continues to increase in the Southeast, and one of the fastest growing regions
is Georgia. Georgia Power, a division of Southern Company that services the City of Tybee,
estimates that by 2025, Georgia expects almost 1.5 million new residents and by 2030, electrical
demand is projected to increase 27% in the Southeast.
According to Georgia Power Company, the utility company has been able to reliably meet Tybee’s
current electrical demands, even during peak demand, and has sufficient elect rical generating
capacity to meet increased energy demands in the future as population growth continues to
increase. Georgia Power utilizes a variety of power generating sources, its main sources including
nuclear, coal and natural gas, and to a lesser extent, renewables such as solar, hydroelectric, and
wind. According to Georgia Power, nuclear energy, which is the most economical method of
producing electricity and does not produce greenhouse gases, will continue to be an important
power generating source to meet current and future electrical demands in Georgia, including
Tybee Island, and for complying with current and pending environmental standards that regulate
coal-generated electricity. Georgia Power already operates two nuclear facilities: Hatch and
Vogtle, both with multiple generating units. Plant Vogtle, located near Augusta, Georgia, is
currently under construction to expand, with 2 new nuclear units expected to be operational by
2019 and 2020. Georgia Power is also constructing a new transmissio n line to add the
infrastructure needed to support these new units.
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Apr-13May-13Jun-13Jul-13Aug-13Sep-13Oct-13Nov-13Dec-13Jan-14Feb-14Mar-14Apr-14May-14Jun-14Jul-14Aug-14Sep-14Oct-14Nov-14Dec-14Jan-15Feb-15Mar-15Apr-15May-15Jun-15Jul-15Aug-15Sep-15Monthly Weight of Public Works Collection (Tons)
Muncipal Solid Waste Recycling
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 38
To keep up with the growth, Georgia Power has made extensive upgrades to its electrical system,
including an $80 million upgrade to the Savannah underground network. Within the last few
years, the utility company has also made upgrades to the electrical infrastructure for Tybee
Island, including the large transmission lines along the US 80 corridor connecting Tybee Island to
Talahi Island, the City’s substation, and distribution systems along Butler Avenue and other areas.
The majority of planned upgrades for the City of Tybee have now been completed.
Georgia Power offers a commercial rebate program that provides cost incentives for
incorporating energy-efficient improvements. Rebates are offered to help offset initial costs
associated with replacement of outdated, inefficient equipment or installation of high-efficiency
equipment during new construction. The utility company also offers free audits that provide
recommendations for increased energy efficiency. In April 2015, Georgia Power conducted an
audit of Tybee’s Memorial Park buildings. Recommendations included:
• Continue to incorporate occupancy sensors in strategic locations of the buildings for
lighting savings
• Consider energy efficient construction practices and premium efficiency equipment when
renovating the city hall building or when equipment fails
• Double check the programmable thermostat settings in the gymnasium to make sure they
are set to adjust during unoccupied times. They appeared to be on hold temps when
visited.
• Replace the water heater in the YMCA building. At its age, scale on the elements is likely
and will cause the heater to operate much less efficiently.
• Continue to promote energy management/conservation to city employees and tenants
of city building space.
• Make sure all computers are set to go into energy management mode when they are not
in use.
i. Solarize Tybee
Approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission in November 2012, the original Georgia
Power Advanced Solar Initiative (GPASI) is an innovative solar program designed to procure 210
MW of solar capacity. GPASI was primarily created to spur economic growth within the solar
community in Georgia, while offering pricing that encourages more renewable development and
avoids any upward rate pressure and reliability impacts to Georgia Power customers.
With this goal in mind, Georgia Power designed two programs to continue to develop solar in
Georgia: 1) offer existing Georgia Power customers additional options to sell distributed solar
generation back to Georgia Power through small- and medium-scale power purchase programs;
and 2) offer solar developers the opportunity to bring large photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays to
market through a competitive utility-scale RFP. In July 2013, the Public Service Commission
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 39
approved an additional 525 MW of solar capacity as part of the 2013 Integrated Resource Plan
(IRP) order. These additional megawatts of solar capacity were similarly allocated between the
distributed generation and utility-scale programs.
In 2015, the City of Tybee Island, in cooperation with the Tybee Community Resources
Committee, initiated the Solarize Tybee program to bring solar power to Tybee Island and
Chatham County, Georgia, by eliminating some of the complexity of selecting a qualified installer
and by driving down costs through the power of bulk purchasing. This program offered
competitive pricing in a tiered system, i.e., prices decreased with increased participation. The
solar contractor, Hannah Solar, performed free assessments for interested property owners to
determine if their building was suitable for solar panel installation. Once a site was judged
suitable, and the customer scheduled installation directly with Hannah Solar.
Solarize Tybee was open to all residents, businesses, and governmental entities within Chatham
County, Georgia, provided the governing body in each jurisdiction did not object to having its
citizens participate. In total, 61 contracts for solar panel installation were completed, generating
335 KW of renewable energy.
P. ZONING
i. Zoning Analysis
Since most of the island has been developed, subdivision and subsequent development of
existing residential parcels presents the greatest opportunity for growth on the island. Recent
development activity indicates that there is a growing trend in subdivisions of parcels zoned R-2.
In addition, much of the remaining undeveloped residential property on the island is zoned R2,
which allows for the high density of residential development. The City of Tybee Island’s R-2 zoning
category was established to allow for one and two family residential development, and allows
for the smallest minimum lot size for residential parcels on the island. The schedule of
development regulations (Sec 3-090) defines the allowable lot sizes for residentially zoned
property in the City. The minimum lot size for development of a single family dwelling unit is
4,500 square feet in the R-2 district. The minimum lot size for a two-family structure in this district
is 6,750 square feet. These numbers are the basis for determining the impact of potential future
build out.
Roughly 40% of the island is currently zoned R-2, much of which is currently developed as a single-
family residential use. There is reason for concern from a carrying capacity perspective when
considering the future development potential for these properties. The following analysis
evaluates these properties to determine the population impact that different development
scenarios would have on the City.
ii. Methodology
The methodology used for this analysis began with the identification of all parcels currently zoned
R-2. These properties were then broken down into the following categories based on lot size:
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 40
Less the 6,750 square feet. Parcels in this category could only be developed as single-
family homes.
6,750 - 11,250 square feet. Parcels in this category could be developed as two -family
residential, either as a duplex, or as two, single-family residential parcels (if over 9,000
square feet).
11,250 - 13,500 square feet. These parcels could be split and developed with one-single
family and one, two-family structure.
Over 13,500 square feet. Parcels that can be developed as two, two -family structures.
Unique. Certain unique conditions were also considered. This includes significantly large
parcels that could be sub-divided a number of different ways. For example, a large
property with a significant amount or marsh may limit its development potential.
Additionally, a large undeveloped property may have be large enough for a larger
subdivision of land.
iii. Analysis
There are currently 1,694 R-2 parcels in the City. Roughly 80% of these parcels are currently
developed. The general land uses shown in Table 18 were determined using data from the
Chatham County Tax Assessors Office. This data was then vetted in GIS using aerial photography
and other online resources. Table 19 shows the current breakdown of land uses within the R-2
zoning district.
Table 19: Number of R-2 Parcels and Residential Units
Category Number of R-2 Parcels Number of Units
Single Family 1,337 1,337
Duplex 85 170
Non-Residential 11 0
Undeveloped 261 0
Total 1,694 1,507
Please note, one of the undeveloped R-2 properties listed above is not developable, one is in a
conservation easement, and the last parcel (shown in Figure 15), is the likely the last parcel on
Tybee with significant developable acreage, approximately 600,000 square feet.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 41
Figure 15: Large Undeveloped Parcel on Tybee
iv. Population in the R-2 District Based on Current Development
The 2010 Census reports that only about 40% of housing units in the City of Tybee Island are
occupied by year-round, full-time residents. Therefore, the remaining 60% of housing on the
island is potentially available as seasonal rentals or vacation housing (i.e., second homes), both
of which can have a dramatic effect on peak population numbers during summer months. As
stated earlier in this report, the US Census Bureau found that the average household size for
residents of Tybee Island is 2.1 people per unit. While the number of people occupying a short-
term rental or vacation unit can vary greatly, the Carrying Capacity Stakeholder group agreed to
use an estimate of 5 people per unit when approximating short-term rental or vacation overnight
population. Table 20 shows the maximum population (both resident and short-term rental) that
is likely supported within the R-2 district, in its current development state.
Table 20: Maximum Population Based on Current Development
Category Number of
R-2 Parcels
Number of
Units
Resident Population
40%
(2.1 people/ unit)
Short Term / Vacation
Population
60%
(5 people/ unit)
Single Family 1,337 1,337 1,124 4,011
Duplex 85 170 143 510
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 42
Category Number of
R-2 Parcels
Number of
Units
Resident Population
40%
(2.1 people/ unit)
Short Term / Vacation
Population
60%
(5 people/ unit)
Non-Residential 11 0 0 0
Undeveloped 261 0 0 0
Total 1,694 1,507 1,267 4,521
This analysis shows that the maximum potential overnight population in the R-2 at 100%
occupancy for both resident and short-term rental/vacation units is currently 5,788 people.
v. Full Build-Out Scenario
In order to understand the potential impacts of a full build-out scenario in the R-2 district, it was
first necessary to determine the maximum number of units that could be developed within the
areas zoned R-2. Based on current land use breakdown shown in Table 19, the total number of
residential units in R-2 today is 1,507. However, if these same parcels were subdivided and
developed to the maximum extent, in accordance with the lot size standards for R-2, the number
residential units would increase by 1,321, for a total of 2,828 residential units, as presented in
Table 21. This represents an increase of approximately 88% in the number of residential units in
R-2. This analysis assumes that each parcel, both developed and undeveloped, are built out to
their maximum capacity, based on the current standards for R-2. The map in Figure 16 illustrates
the breakdown of lots based on their developable acreage.
Table 21: Full R-2 Build-Out Scenario
Category Developable Area within Parcel Total Existing
Parcels
Potential
Units
Single Family Residential Less than 6,750 Sq. Ft 1,087 1,087
Two Family Residential 6,750 - 11,250 Sq. Ft 335 670
One Single Family, One 2-Family 11,250 - 13,500 Sq. Ft 93 279
Two 2-Family Structures Greater than 13,500 Sq. Ft 176 704
Residential development* 600,000 Sq. Ft of Developable Area 1 88
Total 1,692 2,828
* For the purposes of this study, it was assumed that 50% of the developable acreage could be included in the parcels, and th at
the parcels would be 6,750 Sq Ft, each containing a duplex unit.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 43
Figure 16: R-2 Parcels by Lot Size
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 44
vi. Additional Population Based on Build-Out Scenario
Table 22 shows the total potential population (both resident and short -term rental) that would
result from the full-build out scenario described above.
Table 22: Maximum Population of Build-Out Scenario
Category Total
Existing
Parcels
Potential
Units
Resident
Population
40%
(2.1 people/
unit)
Short Term /
Vacation
Population
60%
(5 people/ unit)
Single Family Residential 1,087 1,087 914 3,260
Two Family Residential 335 670 563 2,010
One Single Family, One 2-Family 93 279 235 835
Two 2-Family Structures 176 704 592 2,110
Residential development* 1 88 74 264
Total 1,692 2,828 2,378 8,479
This analysis shows that the maximum potential overnight population in the R-2 at 100%
occupancy for both resident and short-term rental/vacation units in the full build-out scenario
would be 10,857. This represents a potential maximum population increase of 5,069.
vii. Zoning Assessment Findings
Table 23 summarizes the findings of the R-2 analysis.
Table 23: R-2 Buildout Population Increase Summary
Condition Potential
Units
Resident
Population
40%
(2.1 people/
unit)
Short Term /
Vacation
Population
60%
(5 people/ unit)
Total Overnight
Population
Existing Development 1,507 1,267 4,521 5,788
Build-Out Scenario 2,828 2,378 8,479 10,857
Increase 1,321 1,111 3,958 5,069
I N T R O D U C T I O N
C O O N S , A M Y 45
Based on the existing zoning standards for the R-2 District, this build-out scenario has the
potential to significantly increase the overnight population on the island, resulting in a dramatic
impact on peak demand issues related to water supply, wastewater discharge, and
transportation discussed earlier in this report. In Section X of this report, it was calculated that
the maximum overnight population on the island under current development conditions is
14,198. Adding the additional overnight population that could be experienced under a full-build
out scenario for R-2, brings the maximum overnight population to 19,327. This is well beyond the
peak capacity of both the current water supply and wastewater discharge systems, and would
clearly increase congestion along US 80 and the internal road network.
This future build out scenario is affected by both the geographic extent of the R -2 district as well
as standards for subdivision and development of the R-2 district. While subdivisions and
redevelopments of parcels within this district are currently happening slowly, parcel by parcel,
the pace at which it is occurring is likely to increase as property value increases and available land
for development on Tybee Island decreases. This analysis is not suggesting that the full build-out
scenario is likely to occur in the near future, only that over time it is possible that development
density could significantly increase to the levels proposed here. Furthermore, the City needs to
consider the impacts of this zoning classification under a post-disaster redevelopment scenario.
APPENDICES
WORK PROGRAM REPORT OF
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
City of Tybee Island Master Plan Short Term Work Program Assessment
Population Status
Develop a tourism marketing campaign that focuses on drawing identified tourist groups to the Island. Ongoing
As part of carrying capacity study determine sufficiency of services and facilities for the aging population. Underway; Completion
11/16
Develop an education packet to be distributed to visitors about available actlvities/services/resources (include information
about natural resources protection, local ordinances, etc. Ongoing
Work with various rental agencies, realtors. hotels/bed and breakfast establishments to distribute the packet to Island visitors . Ongoing
Economic Development Status
Reactivate the DDA upon completion of the Market Study. Done
Prepare economic development plan for business district. Consider identified Issues and opportunities for economic development. Ongoing
Evaluate potential for an Urban Redevelopment plan and creation of an enterprise zone.
Initiative cancelled after preliminary review showed criteria was not met within the community. Cancelled
Support the development of heritage tourism. Ongoing
Provide assistance to new businesses developing on the Island. Ongoing
Develop a strong working relationship with Savannah Development & Renewal Authority. Ongoing
Work with the Tourism Council and local business groups to encourage revitalization of business district Accomplished/Ongoing
Encourage the development of off season events and activities. Accomplished/Ongoing
Develop and promote eco-tourism businesses and resources. Accomplished/Ongoing
Investigate potential for developing a convention center on the Island. Ongoing
Encourage small conventions to locate on the Island during off-season. Accomplished/Ongoing
Implement beautification I facade improvements in business districts through a revolving loan program. Accomplished/Ongoing
Housing Status
Develop recommendations for new development, redevelopment, and restoration that address mass, scale and density of
development. Accomplished/Ongoing
Ensure that new development is consistent with the character of the neighborhood as defined in the Master Plan. Accomplished/Ongoing
Consider adopting a standard for maximum lot coverage. Underway - Local Historic
Districts
Consider allowing upstairs residential development In commercial areas, if the use is primarily commercial. Ongoing
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Consider the need for variances for rooflines where floodplains restrict first floor development, but do not allow fourth floor
development
Initiative was considered, deemed not feasible and cancelled.
Cancelled
Land Use Status
Update Land Development Code in accordance with recommendation of the Task Force and vision of this Plan. Review Underway
As part of the update, restrict residential down-zoning in commercial areas. Ongoing
As part of the update, ensure zoning regulations are consistent with the Master Plan. Ongoing
Improve the level of code enforcement. Accomplished/Ongoing
Educate residents about zoning, allowable land uses, and the rezoning process. Ongoing
Develop and adopt a Catastrophic Disaster Rebuild Plan for the Island. Ongoing
Develop a comprehensive GIS database for the City. Accomplished/Ongoing
Transportation Status
Conduct transportation engineering study In accordance with issues and opportunities identified in this Plan Accomplished/Ongoing
As part of this study, explore possibility of taking control of Butler/Highway 80.
Based on the expense and liability issues associated with taking control of the facility, the initiative was deemed not
feasible and was cancelled.
Cancelled
As part of the study, explore potential to offer subsidized open-air trolley services around the Island to reduce traffic.
Due to the expense involved with the provision of this type of service, the initiative was deemed not feasible and
cancelled.
Cancelled
As part of this study, explore charging additional "hotel tax" to help fund a city subsidized on and off Island transportation
system.
Considered but the initiative resulted in significant opposition and was cancelled.
Cancelled
As part of this study, investigate potential to make Highway 80 a toll road.
Based on the intensive process and implications resulting from implementation of a toll, the initiative was deemed not
feasible and cancelled.
Cancelled
As part of this study, Investigate need and potential to locate a parking garage on the Island. Ongoing
As part of this study, investigate the feasibility of using commercial parking lots for public parking.
This initiative was considered not feasible and cancelled based on the results of the feasibility investigation. Cancelled
As part of this study, develop "peak use" contingency for parking. Ongoing
Coordinate with GDOT to ensure that any widening of the Lazaretto Creek bridge includes a separate bike lane Accomplished/Ongoing
Encourage development of the bikeway to connect Tybee Accomplished/Ongoing
I N T R O D U C T I O N
As part of Land Code Update, develop zoning overlay to require easements from property owners along Highway 80 to complete
the Tybee/Wilmington Island bikeway.
Environmental and other transportation considerations resulted in the abandonment of this initiative as not feasible and
cancelled.
Cancelled
Develop multi-use paths throughout the City. Accomplished/Ongoing
Support and Implement beautification and streetscaping along Butler Avenue/Highway 80 Accomplished/Ongoing
Bring level of service up to streets designated use.
Based on transportation and traffic studies, the level of service on the transportation network is currently appropriate,
outside of peak times, such as the Fourth of July and the element was cancelled.
Cancelled
Clearly define parking requirements for seasonal rentals and educate visitors about requirements. Accomplished/Ongoing
Educate residents and visitors about transportation related ordinances, alternative transit, and alternative transportation routes. Ongoing
Cultural and Historic Resources Status
Revisit the potential for establishing "Local Historic Districts" on the Island. Underway/Ongoing
As part of Land Code Update, review and update section 14 of Tybee's Land Development Code. Done
Use Historic Review Committee to determine appropriate design guidelines Ongoing
Pursue Certified Local Government Status. Done
Establish a GIS inventory of historic structures. Accomplished/Ongoing
Educate residents and developers with regard to cost of effective materials, and treatments
Upon investigation, the majority of residents and developers were already educated on this initiative and it was
cancelled.
Cancelled
Work with historic preservation groups to seek funding to assist with restoration projects. Accomplished/Ongoing
Educate owners of historic structures about economic benefits such as tax credits, conservation easements, tax freezes, etc. Accomplished/Ongoing
Support the City's Arts Commission and the development of additional cultural resources Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to support the renovation of Guard House Tybee Post Theatre. Done
Consider the development of a public arts center/artist incubator center Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to support Lighthouse Museum. Accomplished/Ongoing
Natural Resources Status
Develop complete GIS inventory of City's natural resources. Accomplished/Ongoing
Prioritize acquisition and preservation of greenspace, parks and conservation easements. Accomplished/Ongoing
Create linkages between green space, parks, cultural, and County, DNR, historic interest points. Accomplished/Ongoing
Identify various tools that support preservation efforts such as grants, conservation easements, etc. Accomplished/Ongoing
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Continue to implement the NPDES Phase I MS4 Permit SWMP. Accomplished/Ongoing
Implement a citywide bacteria monitoring program to identify the source of contamination on the beaches. Accomplished/Ongoing
Implement a sanitary sewer Inspection and rehabilitation program in compliance with NPDES requirements. Accomplished/Ongoing
Provide education to visitors on natural resource protection efforts including recycling, water conservation, stormwater
pollution and respect of marine and marsh life Accomplished/Ongoing
Develop a targeted education program from developers that covers topics such as E & S control, buffers, tree protection and
stormwater management
This was identified as redundant as state and federal requirements are already in place that address this element.
Cancelled
As part of the Land Code Update, allow for and encourage Low Impact Development practices such as rain barrels, green roofs
and rain gardens in public and private projects Accomplished/Ongoing
As part of the Wayfinding Project, place Interpretive signage on dune crossings and along trails to educate residents and visitors
about the fragile coastal environment Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to work with DNR for wetlands/marsh protection Accomplished/Ongoing
As part of the Land Code Update, review Tree Ordinance; develop incentives to promote the retention of trees as opposed to
removal and replacement Accomplished/Ongoing
Support the Marine Science Center Relocation. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to support work of Marine Science Center. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue urban reforestation program. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to monitor drainage issues in dunes. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to seek funding and implement beach re-nourishment Accomplished/Ongoing
Promote the use of native p!ants/xeriscape through the development of landscaping guidelines. Accomplished/Ongoing
Facilities and Service
Conduct a study to determine the carrying capacity of the Island as it relates to infrastructure and natural resources. Underway; Completion
11/16
Develop a capital improvement plan to be implemented conjunction with road rehabilitation Done
As part of carrying capacity study, develop a water supply contingency plan that evaluates and plans for alternative sources. Done
Conduct a GIS inventory of the number of shallow wells and septic tanks on the Island. Accomplished/Ongoing
Work with YMCA to develop programs at the gym. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to upgrade sidewalks/public facilities to be ADA compliant Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue upgrade of sewer collection system; improve efficiency, reduce stormwater intrusion and explore feasibility of
connecting existing septic systems users to the treatment facility. Accomplished/Ongoing
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Make improvements to the public works complex. Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to maintain/replace as necessary all public works equipment Accomplished/Ongoing
After completion of master plan, make recommended improvements to Storm Drainage System. Accomplished/Ongoing
Develop conceptual design and architectural drawings for project to replace Public Safety Facility Done
Update dune crossovers. Accomplished/Ongoing
Support continued planning and program development for the Rivers End Campground to attract visitors in the off season Accomplished/Ongoing
Continue to participate in regional transportation efforts. Accomplished/Ongoing
Coordinate with CEMA, Chatham County and other local and regional planning agencies to implement Tybee Island's Hurricane
Disaster Management Plan. Accomplished/Ongoing
APPENDICES
QUALITY COMMUNITY OB JECTIVES
ASSESSMENT
Quality Community Objectives Local Assessment
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has developed Quality Community Objectives which
provide communities with a framework for preservation of unique cultural, historical and natural resources
while achieving the future vision. This assessment is a tool to measure the progress of the community
towards reaching their overall goals and objectives.
The City of Tybee Island, through its collaborative and coordinated planning process, developed specific
goals tailored towards the unique Tybee character and community. These goals correlate directly to the
Quality Community Objectives identified by DCA, as shown in the table below.
Quality Community Objectives City of Tybee Island Goals
Development Patterns: Traditional Neighborhoods
Traditional neighborhood development
patterns should be encouraged, including
use of more human scale development,
compact development, mixing of uses
within easy walking distance of one
another, and facilitating pedestrian
activity
Encourage development and re
development in residential areas that is
within the context of traditional
neighborhoods
Encourage development and re-
development to be compatible with the
existing, land uses and development
patterns in adjacent areas
Maintain and preserve our traditional
community character and sense of place
Development Patterns: Infill Development
Communities should maximize the use of
existing infrastructure and minimize the
conversion of undeveloped land at the
urban periphery by encouraging
development or redevelopment of sites
closer to the downtown or traditional
urban core of the community
Development Patterns: Sense of Place
Traditional downtown areas should be
maintained as the focal point of the
community or, for newer areas where this
is not possible, the development of
activity centers that serve as community
focal points should be encouraged. These
community focal points should be
attractive, mixed-use, pedestrian friendly
places where people choose to gather for
shopping, dining, socializing and
entertainment
Development Patterns: Transportation Alternatives
Alternatives to transportation by
automobile, including mass transit, bicycle
routes, and pedestrian facilities, should be
made available in each community.
Greater use of alternate transportation
should be encouraged.
Provide for and encourage the use of
transportation alternatives, including bike,
pedestrian, golf carts and public
transportation.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Promote and encourage transportation safety,
parking, and traffic solutions for Tybee
including US 80 and its bridge infrastructure.
Development Patterns: Regional Identity
Each region should promote and preserve
a regional “identity”, or regional sense of
place, defined in terms of traditional
architecture, common economic linkages
that bind the region together, or other
shared characteristics.
Promote and preserve Tybee’s unique identity
within the regional context of Coastal Georgia.
Resource Conservation: Heritage Preservation
The traditional character of the
community should be maintained through
preserving and revitalizing historic areas
of the community, encouraging new
development that is compatible with the
traditional features of the community, and
protecting other scenic or natural features
that are important to defining the
community’s character.
Maintain, preserve and enhance our historic
and cultural resources
Resource Conservation: Open Space Preservation
New development should be designed to
minimize the amount of land consumed and open
space should be set aside from development for
use as public parks or as greenbelts/wildlife
corridors. Compact development ordinances are
one way of encouraging this type of open space
preservation.
Maintain, preserve and enhance our
community open spaces, such as parks,
greenbelts, and wildlife corridors.
Protect and preserve our environmentally
sensitive areas, including beaches, natural
terrain, drainage areas, vegetation, coastal
marshlands, wildlife habitat and corridors, and
floodplains.
Resource Conservation: Environmental Protection
Environmentally sensitive areas should be
protected from negative impacts of
development, particularly when they are
important for maintaining traditional
character or quality of life of the
community or region. Whenever possible,
the natural terrain, drainage, and
vegetation of an areas should be
preserved.
Social and Economic Development: Growth
Preparedness
Each community should identify and put
in place the pre-requisites for the type of
growth it seeks to achiever. These might
include infrastructure (roads, water, sewer)
to support new growth, appropriate
Develop coastal hazard preparedness, or crisis
management responses for hurricane
preparedness and recovery from a financial,
physical, and safety perspective
I N T R O D U C T I O N
training of the workforce, ordinances and
regulation to manage growth as desired
or leadership capable of responding to
growth opportunities and managing new
growth when it occurs.
Encourage a focus on quality development
within the carry capacity of the island
Ensure that existing water, wastewater, solid
waste, and transportation infrastructure is
sufficient to support the current population.
Plan for infrastructure improvements,
including water, wastewater, solid waste, and
transportation, to support future growth.
Adapt to a changing climate.
Social and Economic Development: Appropriate
Businesses
The business and industries encouraged
to develop or expand in a community
should be suitable for the community in
terms of job ski9lls required, long term
sustainability, linkages to other economic
activities in the region, impact on the
resources of the area, and future
prospects for expansion and creation of
higher skill job opportunities.
Encourage a diverse, stable and year round
population with a high quality of life
Encourage and support sustainable businesses
that serve both year round residents and
visitors.
Promote a balance of diverse employment
opportunities for both the year round and
seasonal workforce.
Encourage a range of housing sizes, costs, and
densities to meet the diverse needs of the
population.
Encourage a range of educational and
enrichment opportunities within the
community.
Support non-profit organizations that
enhance the quality of life, economy and
culture of the island.
Encourage and support recreational
opportunities and amenities, including the
existing campground
Social and Economic Development: Employment
Options
A range of job types should be provided
in each community to meet the diverse
needs of the local workforce
Social and Economic Development: Housing
Choices
A range of housing size, cost and density
should be provided in each community to
make it possible for all who work in the
community to also live in the community
(thereby reducing commuting distances),
to promote a mixture of income and age
groups in each community, and to
provide a range of housing choice to
meet market needs.
Social and Economic Development: Educational
Opportunities
Educational and training opportunities
should be readily available in each
community to permit community
residents to improve their job skills, adapt
to technological advances, or to pursue
entrepreneurial ambitions
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Government Relations: Regional Solutions
Regional solutions to needs shared by
more than one local jurisdiction are
preferable to separate local approaches,
particularly where this will result in greater
efficiency and less cost to the taxpayer.
Continue to participate and promote the
regional efforts to develop solutions for issues
affecting Tybee, the region and the State.
Promote and preserve Tybee’s unique identity
within the regional context of Coastal Georgia.
Develop and achieve our own vision with
State technical and financial support.
Government Relations: Regional Cooperation
Regional cooperation should be
encourage in setting priorities, identifying
shared needs, and finding collaborative
solutions, particularly where it is critical to
success of a venture, such as protection of
shared natural resources or development
of a transportation network.
Character Area Analysis
Using the Quality Community Objectives identified by DCA, an assessment of the City’s progress towards
a sustainable community with a high quality of life was completed. The assessment tool created by DCA
includes a yes/no designation, as well as areas for comments. A “yes” indicates the community has
options in place of managing development patterns. A “no” may provide insight for the community on
how to better focus planning to achieve these Quality Community Objectives. The following tables
provide an assessment of each Character Area in relation to the Quality Community Objectives.
Character Area: Back River Neighborhood
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages. New development
should be consistent with the existing character
of the neighborhood.
Infill Development There are some opportunities for infill
development. Infill development should be
consistent in the terms of mass, size and scale
with the existing development.
Sense of Place The unique architectural styles and the
proximity to the Back River give this
neighborhood a specific sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is little open space available for
preservation in this neighborhood.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Appropriate Businesses Low impact commercial services exist in the
neighborhood and are compatible with the
existing character.
Employment Options Not applicable to this neighborhood.
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing styles and
options in the area.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable to this neighborhood.
Regional Solutions The City coordinates and works with its
regional partners, including the CORE MPO
and the Coastal Regional Commission.
Regional Cooperation The City coordinates and works with its
regional partners, including the CORE MPO
and the Coastal Regional Commission.
Character Area: Beaches
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods Not applicable in this area.
Infill Development Not applicable in this area.
Sense of Place The beaches are the major tourist attraction for
Tybee and provides the framework for its sense
of place and community character.
Transportation Alternatives Not applicable in this area.
Regional Identity As a coastal Georgia barrier island, the beaches
are a key element in the regional identity.
Heritage Preservation Not applicable in this area.
Open Space Preservation It is critical for Tybee to preserve and protect
its beaches and dune systems.
Environmental Protection It is critical for Tybee to preserve and protect
its beaches and dune systems.
Growth Preparedness It is critical for Tybee to preserve and protect
its beaches and dune systems and to ensure
there are no negative impacts from growth and
development.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable in this area.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
Housing Choices Not applicable in this area.
Educational Opportunities The beaches and dune systems provide
educational opportunities through eco-tourism
and the TIMSC programs.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: Beachfront Neighborhood
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages. New development must
be consistent with the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Infill Development There are some opportunities for infill
development. Infill development should be
consistent in the terms of mass, size and scale
with the existing development.
Sense of Place The unique architectural styles and the
proximity to the ocean/beaches give this
neighborhood a specific sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is little open space available for
preservation in this neighborhood.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
I N T R O D U C T I O N
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable to this area.
Employment Options Not applicable to this area.
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing choices and
styles available in this area.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable to this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: Coastal Marshlands
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods Not applicable in this area.
Infill Development Not applicable in this area.
Sense of Place The coastal marshlands are a unique resource
and are a vital element in the sense of place for
Tybee.
Transportation Alternatives Not applicable in this area.
Regional Identity The coastal marshlands are a unique resource
and occur only in the coastal areas from the
South Carolina lowcountry to south Georgia.
Heritage Preservation Not applicable in this area.
Open Space Preservation Preservation of the coastal marshlands is
critical and a high priority,
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is critical; the coastal
marshlands are unique environmental features
and must be protected.
Growth Preparedness It is critical that the marshlands are not
adversely impacted from growth and
development.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable in this area.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Housing Choices Not applicable in this area.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable in this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: Commercial Gateway
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods Traditional neighborhoods are not a major
element.
Infill Development Vacant and underutilized properties existing
within the corridor. Compatible infill
development will ensure the vitality of this
gateway corridor.
Sense of Place Unique businesses and attractions are a key
element in the sense of place and community
character for the island.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic structures exist in this area.
Preservation and restoration of historic
structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is little open space available in this
corridor. When possible, the incorporation of
open space is important for the community.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority, and
appropriate planning is important within the
corridor.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Growth Preparedness Preparing for redevelopment and the retention
of existing businesses is a higher priority than
addressing new development in this area.
Appropriate Businesses The City should focus efforts on business
retention, including those that serve both year
round residents as well as tourists.
Employment Options The majority of opportunities are in the service
related industries
Housing Choices Housing options include the potential for
residential over commercial and the
connections to adjoining neighborhoods is
important.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable in this area
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: Ft. Screven Historic District
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes a variety of
development styles, including traditional
cottages and homes. New development must
be consistent with the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Infill Development Any new development/redevelopment should
be consistent with the existing neighborhood
and community character.
Sense of Place The unique architectural styles and the
proximity to the ocean/beaches give this
neighborhood a specific sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood, including Ft. Screven and the
Lighthouse. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation Preservation of open space is important,
particularly the preservation of the existing
parks and public open spaces.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is critical; the unique
coastal environmental features must be
protected.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Low impact commercial services exist in the
neighborhood and are compatible with the
existing character.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing choices and
styles available in this area.
Educational Opportunities The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is
relocating to this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Character Area: Inland Cottage Neighborhood
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages. New development must
be consistent with the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Infill Development There are some opportunities for infill
development. Infill development should be
consistent in the terms of mass, size and scale
with the existing development.
Sense of Place The unique architectural styles and the
proximity to the ocean/beaches give this
neighborhood a specific sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is little open space available for
preservation in this neighborhood.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable in this area.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing choices and
styles within this neighborhood.
Educational Opportunities The Tybee Gymnasium, YMCA and Charter
School are located within this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: Marshfront Neighborhood
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages. New development must
be consistent with the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Infill Development There are some opportunities for infill
development. Infill development should be
consistent in the terms of mass, size and scale
with the existing development.
Sense of Place The sense of place for this area are enhanced
by the significant scenic views of the coastal
marshlands and tidal creeks.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is very little open space to be preserved
in this area
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable in this area.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing choices and
styles within this neighborhood.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable in this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: North Beach/Maritime District
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages, commercial and
recreational uses, and public and government
use buildings. New development must be
consistent with the existing character of the
neighborhood.
Infill Development There are opportunities for infill development.
Infill development should be consistent with
and support the sense of place and community
character.
Sense of Place The unique mix of uses and the proximity to
the water gives this neighborhood a specific
sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is little open space available for
preservation in this neighborhood.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Commercial/retail services exist and are
primarily focused on eco-tourism and services.
Employment Options Employment exists within this area, but is
primarily focused on service industries.
Housing Choices There is a mix of housing options and styles in
this area.
Educational Opportunities Educational opportunities exist through the
eco-tourism industry.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
Character Area: The Strand/Historic Downtown District
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional island
homes and cottages and commercial/retail.
New development must be consistent with the
existing character of the area.
Infill Development Although there are limited opportunities for
infill development, any infill development
should be consistent with and support the
sense of place and community character.
Sense of Place The unique mix of uses and the proximity to
the water gives this traditional downtown area
and adjacent residential neighborhood a
specific sense of place.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is very limited open space within this
area.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Land available for new business opportunities
is limited, so the City is concerned with the
retention of existing businesses and the
attraction of new businesses that serve the
needs of the beach community.
Employment Options There are employment opportunities, which
include some professional positions, but
primarily are tourist/service related industries.
Housing Choices There are a variety of housing choices/styles
within this area.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable in this area
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Character Area: South End Neighborhood
Category Yes No Comments
Traditional Neighborhoods The neighborhood includes traditional cottage
style residences. Any new development should
be consistent with the existing community
character.
Infill Development There are some opportunities for infill
development. Any infill should be compatible
in size, mass and scale with the adjacent
properties.
Sense of Place The unique architectural styles and the
proximity to the ocean/beaches give this
neighborhood a specific sense of place.
Transportation Alternatives Improving safe, connected and accessible
bicycle and pedestrian alternatives are a focus
for the City.
Regional Identity Tybee Island is a unique barrier island and a
major tourist destination. This special coastal
Georgia identity is the primary draw for visitors.
Heritage Preservation Historic homes and structures exist in this
neighborhood. Preservation and restoration of
historic structures are high priorities for Tybee
residents.
Open Space Preservation There is very limited open space within this
area.
Environmental Protection Environmental protection is a high priority,
particularly on the beaches and other water
and marsh resources.
Growth Preparedness The Carrying Capacity Study currently under
development will include recommendations
focused on managing growth with the
provision of infrastructure and services.
Appropriate Businesses Not applicable in this area.
Employment Options Not applicable in this area.
Housing Choices There is a mix of housing styles and options
within the area.
Educational Opportunities Not applicable in this area.
Regional Solutions Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional solutions are important in the
preservation and protection of this resource.
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Regional Cooperation Coastal Georgia beaches, including Tybee
Island are critical regional resources and
regional cooperation and coordination is
important in the preservation and protection of
this resource.
APPENDICES
DESIRED DESIGN PATTE RNS AND
ARCHITECTURAL STYLES GUIDEBOOK
APPENDICES
TRANSMITTAL RESOLUTI ON
City of Tybee Island
Resolution to Submit
Comprehensive Plan Update
WHEREAS, the City of Tybee Island Council has completed the required Comprehensive
Plan Update.
WHEREAS, this document was prepared according to the Chapter 110-12-1 Minimum
Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning effective March 1, 2014
and the required public hearing was held on July 11, 2016.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the City of Tybee Island Council does hereby transit
the Comprehensive Plan Update to the coastal Georgia Regional Commission and the
Georgia Department of Community Affairs for official review.
BY:_______________________________________________________
DATE:____________________________________________________
ATTEST:__________________________________________________
DATE:____________________________________________________