The Environment

By a combination of three state laws, 75 percent of Jekyll Island is protected from development. The request for proposal (RFP) issued by the Jekyll Island Authority focuses on an area that includes the current convention center and adjacent oceanfront and inland property. Rather than utilize the parcel exclusively for development, Linger Longer Communities considered how to establish a viable commercial hub for the island while enhancing the available green space in the area.

The plan suggests using pedestrian paths and bike trails to connect the island's various areas, including the conservation areas in the north and the south ends of the island. In this way, the areas remain undisturbed, but visitors are given an opportunity to engage and appreciate the island's distinct ecological system.

Within residential districts, a network of "green lanes," rain gardens, native landscaping and interior parks add green space to the developed areas and help filter rain and water runoff. Thousands of new trees will be planted throughout the Village Center and residential district to provide shade that naturally cools buildings and also beautifies the natural landscape.

In regards to construction, Linger Longer Communities plans to meet or exceed LEED Silver Standards. LEED standards are the nationally accepted design and construction guidelines established by the United States Green Building Council. We are also partnering with the Southface Energy Institute, a nonprofit organization that provides technical assistance with the design and construction of environmentally sensitive and energy efficient homes. Together, we hope to make Jekyll one of the most environmentally-sustainable communities on the east coast.

For more information, please visit the News & Downloads section to download the proposal.