Georgia Mountain News

Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) has successfully secured $2.5 million for the City of Savannah Convention Center Restoration project. This funding, obtained as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, will specifically go towards safety repairs for the Savannah Convention Center’s Riverwalk.

In response to the allocation of funds, Rep. Carter expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Savannah Riverwalk is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. It’s important that we make necessary safety repairs so that we can continue to stroll along our coast and enjoy its beauty. I’m excited for the restoration project to be completed so that the City of Savannah can continue to thrive, and I was proud to support this vital funding.”

Mark Smith, Chairman of the Savannah-Georgia Convention Center Authority, also extended his gratitude towards Rep. Carter for his efforts in securing the funding. Chairman Smith remarked, “We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Carter for securing this critical funding to repair the Savannah Convention Center Riverwalk. We cannot thank Congressman Carter enough for his tireless efforts to support the Savannah Convention Center and the residents of Savannah.”

The Savannah Convention Center plays a significant role in the economic landscape of Georgia’s First Congressional District, hosting approximately 160 events annually and drawing over 200,000 visitors to Savannah. The center has been instrumental in generating $1.4 billion in statewide economic impact, contributing $13.5 million annually in state and local taxes, and supporting 28,000 tourism and hospitality jobs in the greater Savannah area.