Savannah Tackles Homelessness and Drug Threats to Reclaim Historic Streets

City leaders, businesses, and tourism groups work to address public safety concerns in one of America's most picturesque destinations.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 3:48pm

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Savannah, Georgia, known for its Spanish moss-draped oaks, waterfront views, and ornate ironwork, is working to reclaim parts of the historic city from growing homelessness, encampments, and drug-related public safety issues. Business leaders and city officials acknowledge the problems are real and increasingly visible to residents, business owners, and tourists. The city has passed an urban camping ordinance and is pursuing state-backed solutions, leading to a reduction in encampments but also raising concerns about criminalizing homelessness. Authorities are also contending with evolving drug threats, including increased methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking through the region's ports and transportation corridors.

Why it matters

Savannah's reputation as one of America's most picturesque and historic cities is being threatened by the visible challenges posed by homelessness, vagrancy, and drug-related crime. The city's business community and tourism industry are feeling the impact, and local leaders are under pressure to find solutions that balance public safety and compassion for those in need.

The details

The city's urban camping ordinance, passed in June 2025, makes it unlawful to camp, store personal property in public spaces, or obstruct sidewalks or traffic. While officials say the law is not intended to criminalize homelessness, it has led to 179 citations and 15 arrests. The city reports that 135 individuals have engaged with service providers, with roughly 30% entering shelters after contact with authorities. Encampments in the historic district have been reduced by about half since 2023, according to figures provided by the city and partner organizations. Beyond homelessness, authorities are also contending with evolving drug threats, including increased methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking through the region's ports and transportation corridors.

  • In June 2025, Savannah passed an urban camping ordinance.
  • Since the law took effect, the city says enforcement has led to 179 citations and 15 arrests.
  • Officials report that 135 individuals have engaged with service providers, with roughly 30% entering shelters after contact with authorities.
  • Encampments in the historic district have been reduced by about half since 2023.

The players

Bert Brantley

President and CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce.

Van Johnson

Mayor of Savannah.

Kurtis Purtee

Savannah Alderman.

Drew Mayer

DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge.

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What they’re saying

“Our businesses, workers, and downtown residents expect our public safety system to identify those committing crimes and deliver consequences for those illegal activities.”

— Bert Brantley, President and CEO, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce

“I don't think there's a single person on this council that believes we should criminalize homelessness. But we have to figure out a way to start working together as a community, while holding people accountable for their actions.”

— Kurtis Purtee, Savannah Alderman

“Drug smugglers are tough. They're not going without a fight. We've seen an increase in methods to hide and disguise the loads of drugs with cover loads, transporting some of the drugs in a liquid form and other creative manners to avoid detention.”

— Drew Mayer, DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.