Nobody disagrees with the opinion that many of structures and lodging on Jekyll Island need a facelift, but to what extent and where to position the redevelopment has definitely sparked a huge controversy. 

 

If you have not heard of what’s going on in Southeast Georgia, last year the Jekyll Island Authority sought bids for the revitalization of the island and ultimately awarded the Linger Longer Communities Corporation with the project. Their redevelopment plan includes a new convention center, new hotels and rental cottages to give visitors to our State Park some much needed accommodation choices. From the instant the Linger Longer plans were presented, the dispute between supporters of the project and the opponents ensued. You can hear statements like “Greedy developers intent on creating a exclusive resort with prices out of reach of the average Georgian” or “that Jekyll has declined to a rundown and financially challenged glimmer of what it once was.” 

 

I personally own a rental property on Jekyll Island and therefore have a vested interest in what happens there. I believe that the improvements are needed and I’m grateful that a company with the experience and track record of Linger Longer is willing to spend $350 million to make Jekyll a popular destination again. I am impressed that their plans include many new and innovative “green” materials and methods committed to conservation and ecology. 

 

I sincerely hope that a satisfactory meeting of the minds between proponents and the opposition can soon be reached so plans can go forward. There is a link below if you care to read about the Linger Longer plans: