Savannah Addresses Homelessness and Drug Trafficking Challenges

Savannah, Georgia, known for its charming scenery and historical significance, faces growing challenges. Business leaders and officials are focusing on reducing homelessness and enhancing public safety in the city.

Addressing Homelessness and Public Safety

The City of Savannah, along with the local Chamber and Tourism Leadership Council, acknowledged the increasing visibility of homelessness and related safety issues in public spaces. Bert Brantley, President and CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, noted the daily impact on the business community. Businesses and residents expect efficient public safety measures against illegal activities.

Homelessness is a key issue for the community. In February 2026, during Savannah-Chatham Day, officials discussed state-supported solutions to these challenges. In 2025, the city proposed an urban camping ordinance aimed at preventing unauthorized camping and obstruction of traffic. Alderman Kurtis Purtee emphasized the importance of community collaboration and accountability, while Mayor Van Johnson described the ordinance as a tool to address criminal activities.

Since the ordinance’s implementation, Savannah has issued 179 citations and made 15 arrests. About 135 individuals have engaged with service providers, with nearly 30% entering shelters. Encampments in the historic district have been reduced by half since 2023, according to local data.

Drug Trafficking Concerns

Beyond homelessness, Savannah contends with drug trafficking challenges. A DEA-led initiative, Operation Fentanyl Free America, highlighted changes in drug trafficking in southeast Georgia. Crystal meth remains widespread, often transported in liquid form for easier smuggling.

“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,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent Drew Mayer.

Even with a decrease in fentanyl-related mass overdoses, the drug remains a significant concern. Authorities have noted the presence of “purple fentanyl” in Savannah, Brunswick, and the Georgia-Florida corridor. Drugs continue to flow through the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick, down the I-95 corridor, into Southeast Georgia and Florida.