Group Health Insurance Agent in Tybee Island, GA
If you're an employer dedicated to attracting and retaining talent or boosting employee productivity, offering a valuable health benefit is important. After all, accidents happen every day. And then, out of nowhere, you're sideswiped by another motorist. Having great health insurance coverage is essential in such scenarios. That's especially true in South Carolina, where group health insurance stands out as a key consideration for businesses. Not only does a comprehensive insurance plan safeguard the health and wellness of your employees, but it also plays a key role in drawing in and keeping top talent.
While you might be most familiar with traditional group health plans, making that your go-to option may not always be the best fit for your organization in today's ever-evolving healthcare landscape. How can you determine if it's truly the right choice for your business? If you've been asking yourself that question, you're not alone. Many small businesses are in need of a group health insurance agency in Tybee Island, GA, to help them weigh their options. That's where working with Grey Cardinal Insurance Group starts to make a lot of sense.
Your Partner for Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we understand the importance of providing flexible, personalized, comprehensive, and cost-effective health benefits. Our knowledgeable group health insurance agents are ready to help you assess your needs and figure out the best group health plan options for your employees and your business.
Whether you're looking to implement traditional group health insurance policies or you're curious about ICHRA, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is the name you can trust when it's time to navigate the complexities of employee benefits. Let's work hand-in-hand to create a health-benefits solution that empowers you, your business, and your employees.
What are the Advantages of Having Group Health Insurance for Small Business in Tybee Island, GA?
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, one of the first questions we answer for our clients usually centers around the benefits of having group health insurance. As it turns out, investing in group health insurance for your company provides you with many benefits, including:
Insurance Costs for Employees
Investing in a group health insurance policy for your business can significantly lower your insurance premiums. When the costs are divided between the business and employees, health insurance is also more affordable for your team.
More Insurance Options to Choose From
With group health insurance, your employees will enjoy increased access to a wider range of health insurance options due to reduced costs. With employers partially funding group health insurance, employees will find it easier to afford the coverage they require.
Reduced Tax Burden
Small businesses can take advantage of a valuable health care tax credit when they provide group health insurance to their employees. This tax credit serves as a financial incentive, making it more affordable for small business owners to offer essential health coverage. Employers also have the opportunity to deduct the expenses associated with group health insurance premiums from their taxable income. This deduction can significantly lower their overall tax liability at the end of the year, ultimately contributing to improved financial stability for the business.
Employee Retention and Recruitment
A recent study conducted by MetLife reveals that an attractive benefits package significantly influences employees' decisions to remain with their current employer or seek opportunities elsewhere. Among the various benefits, health insurance stands out as one of the most essential offerings that employees actively anticipate from their employers. This expectation underscores the vital role that comprehensive health coverage plays in employee satisfaction and retention in the workforce.
Group Health Insurance 101
What are group health insurance plans for small businesses? Group health insurance plans provide health coverage benefits to a specific group of individuals, usually employees of a company or organization. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a group health plan (GHP) is associated with current employment. Employers with 20 or more employees are also required by law to offer their current workers and their spouses aged 65 or older the same GHP benefits, regardless of their age.
To better understand group health plans or group health insurance policies, it's useful to consider how they differ from individual health insurance. Individuals can apply to enroll in marketplace insurance providers for individual health plans. In contrast, group health plans are tailored specifically for the members of that group. For businesses, these health plans are often referred to as employer-based or employer-sponsored coverage.
How Does Group Health Insurance Work in South Carolina?
A group health insurance plan is typically coordinated with the help of a group health insurance agent in Tybee Island, GA, and is sponsored and purchased by employers for their businesses. During the enrollment period, employees or group members can sign up for the plan. They also have the option to add eligible spouses and dependents, usually at an additional cost. The specifics of the plans can differ in terms of coverage levels, costs, number of participants, and the overall health of the members. Generally, a group with lower health risks tends to enjoy lower premiums.
Employees' contributions toward their premiums are deducted from their paychecks before taxes, making it a more cost-effective option. When a member of the group health plan visits a healthcare provider, the provider submits a claim to the insurance company, which then reimburses them according to the plan's coverage. Any remaining costs are paid out-of-pocket by the member, contributing towards their deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.
Group Health Insurance Options in South Carolina
Like the menu at Sundae Cafe at Tybee in Tybee Island, GA, employers have a litany of options to choose from when it comes to group health insurance plans in The Palmetto State. With these different types of group insurance, employers can usually find a health plan that aligns with both their budget and the specific benefits they want to offer. Among the most popular choices are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs).
High-deductible plans serve as another option. Employers can also consider self-funded plans, where employees pay their premiums directly to the employer. In this arrangement, the employer takes on the financial responsibility for all health care claims once the employee meets their health plan deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Check out this group health insurance plan comparison in Tybee Island, GA:
Fully Insured Group Health Insurance Plans
One of the most traditional options for group health insurance is the fully insured plan. Under this arrangement, your company pays a fixed premium to your insurance carrier annually, based on the number of employees participating in the coverage. The only instances that will cause your payment to change during the year are if an employee opts out or if there are fluctuations in the number of participants. The insurance carrier collects all premiums and handles any healthcare claims as per the policy you selected, while employees are responsible for any applicable deductibles or co-payments.
Level-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Level-funded plans, often referred to as partially self-funded plans, have been gaining traction among employers. Although these plans involve taking on more risk than fully insured options, they typically offer a more cost-effective alternative while still ensuring financial predictability. Level-funded plans can also provide greater flexibility in plan design compared to fully insured plans. You can think of them as a balanced option that bridges the gap between fully insured and self-funded plans. At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, your group health insurance agent will walk you through the pros and cons of level-funded plans to help you decide whether they're right for your business and employees or not.
Self-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Self-funded plans have traditionally been favored by large companies, but they're gaining traction among smaller businesses as well. In a self-funded arrangement, employers take on the full responsibility for funding and managing the health insurance plan. While this might seem like a disadvantage, these plans often offer more affordable premium rates and greater control over the specifics of coverage compared to fully insured or level-funded options.
What Do Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business in Tybee Island, GA Cover?
Group health insurance plans can differ significantly, but they generally cover a portion or all of the costs associated with medical care. This includes expenses for physician visits, longer stays at facilities such as Summer Breeze Senior Living, approved inpatient and outpatient procedures, preventive care, prescriptions, and therapeutic treatments like physical and occupational therapy. They also cover emergency care, such as visits to the emergency room or urgent care centers. It's important for members to reach out to their health insurance providers to understand the specifics of what their plan covers and what their financial responsibilities are for both necessary and elective procedures.
Some group health insurance providers have also broadened their offerings to include mental health services and alternative treatments. Employers can further support their employees by providing extra coverage options, such as health savings accounts (HSAs) or health reimbursement arrangements, which can help alleviate some financial burdens.
Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Businesses vs. Individual Health Insurance Plans
When comparing individual and group health insurance, several key differences emerge. Like a group health plan, individual insurance covers either a single person or a family. However, the main distinction lies in how these plans are obtained: individual plans are purchased directly by the individual from an insurance provider or through a government marketplace, making the individual responsible for the total cost of their premiums. In contrast, group health plans are often facilitated by a group health insurance agent and share premium costs between the employee and employer.
Because group health insurance covers multiple people, the employer often has more leverage when negotiating premiums and benefits. However, all participants receive the same plan. On the other hand, individual healthcare plans can be tailored to suit a person's specific needs and budget, allowing for greater personalization.
Another important difference is the underwriting process for each type of plan. In individual plans, premiums may be higher for those with health risk factors and existing conditions if they choose not to purchase through a marketplace. Conversely, group insurance offers coverage at the same price for all employees, even those with pre-existing conditions. Individual health plans can also be portable, meaning they remain with the individual if they change jobs. This isn't the case with employer-sponsored plans; once an employee leaves, they must either find new coverage or continue their existing policy through COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act).
Why Work with a Local Group Health Insurance Agent in Tybee Island, GA?
In today's marketplace, many small business owners go with franchise or "big name" agencies to find group health insurance. While not wrong, this course of action can end up costing your company - and not only from a financial point of view. Working with a local group health insurance agency can provide you with many benefits that big-box options can't provide. What are they, you might be asking? Let's dig in and find out why it's always best to search for "local group health insurance agency near me."
What Do Local Group Health Insurance Agents Actually Do?
A local group health insurance agent or broker - like those from Grey Cardinal Insurance Group - pulls on years of experience and knowledge to give you in-depth guidance centered around your group health insurance needs.
For a business owner, that includes audits on insurance benefits, group insurance plan recommendations for your employees, meeting with those employees to talk about additional benefits they need, and much more. For example, if you need to add benefits like vision, dental, or life insurance to your enrollment options, a group health insurance agent can walk you through your choices and the process as a whole.
But what about if you're just getting started? Navigating the often-complex landscape of health insurance can be particularly challenging for small business owners in such circumstances. A survey conducted by United Healthcare Consumer Sentiment revealed that only 7% of consumers could accurately explain common health insurance terms. That's why, at Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we're committed to providing education for both you and your employees during enrollment meetings. Like Tybee Island Light Station Museum in Tybee Island, GA, we stand tall for you and your business when you need us most.
Personalized Support
One of the biggest reasons to choose a local agent is the ability to customize your plan. No two group health insurance plans are exactly the same, and with ongoing changes in healthcare regulations, it can be challenging to understand the options available to you.
So, what can businesses do to tackle this challenge? The answer lies in partnering with a local health insurance agent in Tybee Island, GA.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group locations, we prioritize listening to your needs and crafting a tailored plan that benefits both your business and your employees. During open enrollment, we take the time to meet with you and engage with your team to better understand the benefits they're looking for. This hands-on approach ensures that employees have direct access to our staff for any questions or concerns they may have. This level of support is something you simply won't find with large corporate insurance firms.
On-Call When You Need Them
Engaging a local health insurance agent offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of access to information and support. Local group health insurance agents are readily available to answer any inquiries that may arise. For instance, when a small business owner wishes to modify their benefits packages, they can easily reach out to a local agent to discuss potential adjustments. The agent can provide guidance in developing a well-structured and appropriate employee benefits package that reflects employee feedback. This collaborative approach can enhance employee satisfaction and improve the overall management of benefits options.
Exceptional Customer Service
This point builds off the last point about local agents being on-call when you need them. Would you rather talk to a real person who you've spoken to before or an automated service when you have questions about your group health insurance? Pressing # to get help with one issue and then being transferred for help and starting the process over is very tedious.
With a local group insurance agent by your side, you'll have peace of mind knowing you'll have quick, quality customer service when you need it, and from a real person, too. If you need to submit a claim, your agent will be able to explain your coverage and options and walk you through the steps to complete your claim.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, our health insurance agents live in the same communities you do, so they know what you are going through or dealing with and are likely already on top of it for you. With that added peace of mind, you can focus more clearly on the core aspects of your business.
A Business Group Health Insurance Agency in Tybee Island, GA, You Can Trust
No matter which group health insurance policy you decide on, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is here to support you. Our experienced agents will collaborate closely with you to understand your needs and find the best health plan options for your business and employees. Reach out to us today to explore your small business group insurance options and get a quote.
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Latest News in Tybee Island, GA
More lifeguards needed during busy summer season on Tybee Island
Brontë Sorotskyhttps://www.wtoc.com/2025/07/08/more-lifeguards-needed-during-busy-summer-season-tybee-island/
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - It’s the busiest time of the year on our area beaches as people flock to our islands to soak up the sun and cool off in the water.But on Tybee Island, lifeguards say they were stretched thin as they responded to dozens of calls over the July 4th weekend.The Tybee Island Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue Team responded to all kinds of calls during the holiday weekend, but most people were calling to be rescued from the water.This past weekend was a First Alert Weather Day on the coast a...
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - It’s the busiest time of the year on our area beaches as people flock to our islands to soak up the sun and cool off in the water.
But on Tybee Island, lifeguards say they were stretched thin as they responded to dozens of calls over the July 4th weekend.
The Tybee Island Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue Team responded to all kinds of calls during the holiday weekend, but most people were calling to be rescued from the water.
This past weekend was a First Alert Weather Day on the coast and lifeguards flew double red flags which meant conditions were so dangerous that swimming was not allowed.
Still, many people did not listen to that warning which resulted in 26 water assists and 12 water rescues.
This was an extremely busy weekend for lifeguards, all while they still need to recruit more to their team.
Tybee Island Fire Chief Justin McMillian said, “it was a little bit overwhelming. We had all hands on deck. All of our guards were working. I think we had 23 guards total on duty, but they were having a little bit of trouble, you know, keeping up with all the folks. Somewhere between that 23 to 30 lifeguards out there is what we want to shoot for.“
Other calls lifeguards responded to over the weekend include Jelly Fish stings and medical emergencies.
They even put in overtime. As they were packing up for the day, they had gotten a call for help and everyone jumped in—both rookies and long-timers.
“On July 4th, we were out on the beach until about 7.30. We had a first rescue at the rock server, the 18th Street Jetty, where it happened to be everybody was leaving the beach at right around that time when we drove by. So thankfully we had a lot of guards there on scene. Rookies jumped in the water, some senior guards jumped in the water, and got some people to safety. They made it back to the shack,” said Lifeguard Supervisor Ben Rahimi Tabar.
Tybee is still actively recruiting lifeguards for the upcoming summer season.
If you or someone you know is interested in trying out, you can still fill out an application.
7 Best Towns In Georgia For A Two-Day Recharge
WorldAtlashttps://www.worldatlas.com/cities/7-best-towns-in-georgia-for-a-two-day-recharge.html
Georgia's best small towns offer the kind of authentic Southern experiences that simply can’t be found in big city destinations like Atlanta or Augusta (as nice as they are). This is especially true if you’re in need of a quiet, restful place to get away to. From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Peach State...
Georgia's best small towns offer the kind of authentic Southern experiences that simply can’t be found in big city destinations like Atlanta or Augusta (as nice as they are). This is especially true if you’re in need of a quiet, restful place to get away to. From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Peach State's lovely coastal areas, countless small communities have succeeded in providing visitors with an authentic taste of that famous Old South hospitality. So buckle up and start planning your getaway itinerary with our take on the seven best towns in Georgia for a two-day recharge.
Dahlonega
The site of America's first major gold rush in 1829, Dahlonega is now one of Georgia's most enchanting mountain getaways. The town's Historic Downtown is where you’ll want to spend the bulk of your time. It’s here, in the old town square, that you’ll find the Dahlonega Gold Museum which tells the fascinating tale of one of the nation's oldest and largest gold mining operations. Housed in the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse, it’s wise to visit here first for a better understanding of the town’s mining past before heading out to explore the tunnels at the Consolidated Gold Mine (tours are available).
Dahlonega has also made a name for itself as Georgia's wine capital, with eight local wineries producing reputable vintages. The best include Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery, a great place to indulge with a delightful Sunday brunch, and Kaya Vineyard and Winery with its informative tours and tastings. In fact, the best time to visit for a two-day recharge is in May during the Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival, topping it off with a stay at the centrally located Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas, located on the town’s historic square.
Blue Ridge
The charming town of Blue Ridge has much to offer those seeking a fun two-day escape. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and only a two-hour drive north of Atlanta, it’s home to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a heritage railroad that offers scenic 26-mile journeys from the town’s historic depot. These four-hour jaunts follow the Toccoa River through some of North Georgia's most spectacular scenery and include a two-hour layover in the towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, Tennessee.
Downtown Blue Ridge is quite unique as the main drag is split down the middle by the rail line, making it even more fun to wander. There are some great eateries here, too, including Harvest on Main, located near the train station and known for its farm-to-table Southern cuisine. Just a few steps away, the Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast offers an authentic stay in the Victorian-era former home of the railway tycoon who built the original train line.
Helen
While Helen can be busy, it does offer plenty of opportunities for a fun recharge, especially if that means reconnecting and having fun with the family. This unique Bavarian-themed alpine village wouldn’t look out of place in Germany, right down to its cobblestone streets, timber-framed buildings, and year-round European festivals, including a must-attend Oktoberfest and Christmas Market.
Its location on the Chattahoochee River also helps. Relaxing water-based activities like tubing (check out Helen Tubing and Cool River Tubing) provide unforgettable and relaxing experiences as you gently float downstream. Other town highlights include the thrilling Georgia Mountain Coaster, the scenic Anna Ruby Falls, and the nearby Smithgall Woods State Park, home to some of Georgia's best trout fishing. One of the town’s best places to stay, The Castle Inn, sits directly on the river above a great riverside patio that sells real German beer.
Madison
Known as "Georgia's Antebellum City," Madison boasts some of the best-preserved antebellum architecture in the United States. All told, some 100 pre-Civil War homes grace its pretty tree-lined streets, all of them spared from destruction during Sherman’s March to the Sea. These and other historic buildings make up the 356 contributing buildings of the Madison Historic District, along with Greek Revival, Victorian, and Federal architectural styles dating from the early 1800s to the early 1900s.
Other highlights that make this a must-visit destination include Heritage Hall, built in 1811 and now a museum (tours are available); the elegant Georgian-period Bonar Hall, constructed in 1839 by a cotton magnate,; and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, housed in an 1895 Romanesque Revival schoolhouse with exhibits and performances year-round. Top off your relaxing retreat with a stay at the 4-star James Madison Inn, just a short stroll from the town’s architectural wonders.
St. Marys
Georgia's second-oldest town, St. Marys is an ideal spot for a two-day coastal recharge. Located close to Cumberland Island National Seashore and just 45-minutes north of Jacksonville, FL, this charming town was established in 1787, with several original structures from this period still surviving in its Historic District. It’s a delightful place for a stroll, with oak-lined streets, attractive Victorian-era homes, and the picturesque St. Marys Waterfront Park perfect for a sit-down as you enjoy the views over St. Marys River.
Hop aboard the Cumberland Island Ferry which departs from the downtown dock to Georgia's largest barrier island where wild horses roam among ruins of Carnegie mansions. And bring your swimsuit, as the island’s beaches stretch for some 17 miles along the Atlantic. Once back in town, retreat to the charming Riverview Hotel. Located directly opposite the ferry dock, this 1916 hotel features a wraparound veranda overlooking the St. Marys River and a top-notch restaurant known for its fresh local seafood.
Tybee Island
Just 20 minutes east of historic Savannah, Tybee Island has a laid-back beach town vibe that makes it perfect for a relaxing two-day break. Boasting five miles of public beaches, families will want to hang out at the kid-friendly South Beach near the pier, while the quieter North Beach is favored by locals and adults seeking something a little quieter. The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, built in 1736, is Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse. If you can manage the steep stair climb, the views are simply to die for.
Built in 1891, Tybee Pier and Pavilion hosts festivals throughout the year and provides excellent fishing, while the Tybee Island Marine Science Center is fun to visit for its beach walks, marsh treks, and interactive exhibits about Georgia's coastal ecosystem. If you want to get out on the water, the island's back rivers and salt marshes are fun to explore by kayak, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins. As for accommodations, shoot for Hotel Tybee, in operation since 1889 and the island's only oceanfront hotel with easy beach access.
Thomasville
Known as the "Winter Resort of the South" during the Victorian-era, Thomasville’s 19th-century grandeur is still very evident in its well-preserved downtown. Must-sees include The Big Oak, a huge tree dating from around 1680 with a span of 165 feet in limb spread, while brick-paved streets lead to April’s annual Rose Show & Festival, held downtown since 1922. This unique celebration of the town’s designation as Georgia's Rose City features displays of over 1,500 blooms in the Thomasville Rose Garden.
You’ll also enjoy a visit to Pebble Hill Plantation, a 3,000-acre estate turned museum. Take a tour of the 1930s main house with its vast Audubon print collection, original Tiffany lamps, and period furnishings. The Thomasville History Center complex includes several historic buildings, while the quirky Lapham-Patterson House, built in 1885 with virtually no right angles, showcases Victorian architectural eccentricity. For a restful stay, the quaint Thomasville Bed and Breakfast is within walking distance of the and other Thomasville attractions.
The Final Word
If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind and relax in the South, these seven Georgian towns are ideal candidates. From Dahlonega's gold rush heritage and wine country sophistication to Tybee Island's barefoot beach culture, they’re each guaranteed to provide the kind of slow travel experience we all need now and then. Plan your next 48-hour escape with our list of the seven best towns in Georgia for a two-day recharge.
Tybee Island City council passes resolution to seek funding for Tybee Island Maritime Academy
Brontë Sorotskyhttps://www.wtoc.com/2025/06/16/new-resolution-help-with-funding-options-tybee-island-maritime-academy/
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - The clock is ticking for Tybee Island’s only school to find a new home before its lease is up in 2029.Staff and board members at Tybee Island Maritime Academy have tried to find a new home for the school for years without luck.A recent decision during last Thursday’s Tybee Island city council meeting could be a step in the right direction. This resolution passed by city council means the city can now start to look at funding options for a plan for Memorial Park that includes TIMA.Th...
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - The clock is ticking for Tybee Island’s only school to find a new home before its lease is up in 2029.
Staff and board members at Tybee Island Maritime Academy have tried to find a new home for the school for years without luck.
A recent decision during last Thursday’s Tybee Island city council meeting could be a step in the right direction. This resolution passed by city council means the city can now start to look at funding options for a plan for Memorial Park that includes TIMA.
The resolution states the city manager will communicate with the Tybee Island Maritime Academy, The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, the Tybee Island YMCA and additional entities as necessary, all to explore the possibility of creating a shared use school and community facility in Memorial Park.
Many buildings in Memorial Park, including the island’s fire station, are old and in dire need of a renovation. This plan would also include moving the fire station elsewhere.
Tybee is surrounded by water and doesn’t have the space for new buildings. According to Tuesday’s resolution by Tybee Island Councilman Tony Ploughe, these limited options may deter families with children to settle on the Island.
“We wanted to give our city manager the go-ahead to start looking at options for how we would come up with the money for this project and who our partners would be ...so that when we do have the plan for the park, we’ll be a step ahead and we’ll be able to get things rolling,” said Mayor Brian West.
The city hired a consulting group that is working on a proposal for Memorial Park. Mayor West says they’re hoping to get the results from that study as soon as July.
Copyright 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.
Tybee Island residents push back against proposed plan for Highway 80
Brontë Sorotskyhttps://www.wtoc.com/2025/06/25/tybee-island-residents-push-back-against-proposed-plan-highway-80/
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) -A proposed change to Tybee Island’s main road is causing a stir. The Georgia Department of Transportation is once again seeking input from residents about a possible plan to bring major changes to Highway 80 from the Lazzaretto Creek to Tybrisa Street.Under this proposal Highway 80 would be reduced to one lane in each direction, starting at the Lazaretto Creek bridge to Tybrisa Street, adding a two way left turn lane.“We’re not even touching the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the...
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) -A proposed change to Tybee Island’s main road is causing a stir. The Georgia Department of Transportation is once again seeking input from residents about a possible plan to bring major changes to Highway 80 from the Lazzaretto Creek to Tybrisa Street.
Under this proposal Highway 80 would be reduced to one lane in each direction, starting at the Lazaretto Creek bridge to Tybrisa Street, adding a two way left turn lane.
“We’re not even touching the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the problems that this is going to create,” said Mack Kitchens, who lives on the island.
Kitchens is against this proposed change and is trying to show GDOT that he isn’t alone, he created a petition against the proposed plan that’s already gathered nearly 800 signatures.
“I’m thinking safety concerns. More bikes and really more accidents...where the GDOT seems to think that this will address safety concerns and slow traffic down. This is going to bring traffic to a stop,” Kitchens said.
Tybee Island Mayor Brian West says the city isn’t giving GDOT a stance on the proposal, instead sharing how residents feel. He also says the biggest concern when it comes to 80 is safety.
“I completely get that we’re likely going to slow traffic down and that’s going to be a problem. You know, we wanna be able to get to where we wanna go. But from the state of Georgia’s point of view, that’s just a safety improvement,” West said.
Kitchens also believes that traffic slowdown could cause bigger headaches and concerns down the line.
“There are comments that I saw in the petition...of people in Savannah that are worried about whether they’ll be able to get to work on time...These businesses sustain our water, our sewer, our income for the island itself,” Kitchens said.
GDOT has said this project is meant to improve driver and pedestrian safety, reduce speed, improve traffic flow and improve emergency response times.
Georgia Representative Jesse Petrea says he’s in communication with GDOT about the strong response he’s getting from folks.
“Right now I’m trying to make sure that GDOT knows that there’s a lot of response from Tybee that is not supportive of this measure and opposed to this measure. And I want to make sure they still have an opportunity to be fully heard,” Petrea said.
WTOC first reached out to GDOT in early June for comment on the proposed project and were sent documents detailing the proposed improvements, as well as a statement that reads
We reached out again this week, and were sent a similar statement
WTOC asked GDOT why we could not speak with them on camera or over the phone about this proposal and residents’ concern and have not heard back.
Tybee residents remain wary of GDOT's proposed changes to SR-26/US-80 as field surveys begin
Destini Ambushttps://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/local/2025/06/19/despite-opposition-to-proposed-us-80-project-gdot-begins-field-surveys/84264374007/
In May, some Tybee Island property owners received a letter from the Georgia Dept. of Transportation (GDOT) regarding additional research, field surveys and investigation to determine the feasibility of proposed changes to State Road 26/U.S. Highway 80 East, the only way onto and off of the island.The proposed project, much to the displeasure and reluctance of Tybee residents and business owners, would substantially alter the road by reducing the two lanes of travel on SR-26 to one lane in each direction from Lazaretto Creek to Tybris...
In May, some Tybee Island property owners received a letter from the Georgia Dept. of Transportation (GDOT) regarding additional research, field surveys and investigation to determine the feasibility of proposed changes to State Road 26/U.S. Highway 80 East, the only way onto and off of the island.
The proposed project, much to the displeasure and reluctance of Tybee residents and business owners, would substantially alter the road by reducing the two lanes of travel on SR-26 to one lane in each direction from Lazaretto Creek to Tybrisa Street. The project would also construct a two-way left turn lane and a dedicated two-way bicycle lane, as well as upgrade traffic signals and pedestrian facilities along the route. All parking along SR-26 would be changed to reverse-angle parking and relocated to the beach (east) side of the road.
The letter from GDOT said the purpose of the survey was to gather the information necessary to design the referenced project and will include the identification of streams, wetlands and open waters.
In March 2024, GDOT sought input from residents about the proposed changes and presented its findings in September 2024. Residents' reactions were mixed then and remain so as GDOT takes a step forward in assessing the project's feasibility. At an open house in March of this year, 71% of the 612 people who responded in person, online and via mailed-in comments opposed the plan of reducing lanes.
Despite objections, GDOT remained confident that the project would be successful, according to previous reporting by the Savannah Morning News.
Mack Kitchens, a Tybee Island native who ran for mayor in 2023, said that he and everyone he has spoken with are staunchly against the proposed plan, and there’s a number of concerns that he and others have regarding the proposal―among them, increased traffic congestion with the reduced number of lanes, the ability to turn around when necessary, and visitors and residents taking alternate routes through neighborhoods to avoid large events.
“I don’t think it was thought out well enough,” Kitchens said. “This problem has existed forever, and as people keep trying to fix it, this will just create worse problems. It may be well-intended, but it doesn’t even look workable to people who have lived here for a long time.”
Although GDOT has plans to have another open house, date to be determined, Kitchens said he feels like getting public input is “smoke and mirrors.”
“[Them] saying [they] want public input doesn’t necessarily mean that they will take it whether it’s 'yes, we want it' or 'no, we don’t,'” Kitchens said. “Field studies already cost money, and it seems to me that they’ve already derived a plan.”
He hopes people will begin speaking out and letting their opinions be known on the proposed project.
For safety reasons during certain events, such as April's Orange Crush Festival, the city of Tybee Island reduces traffic lanes from two to one on each side.
GDOT's proposal is intended to accommodate more modes of transportation―pedestrians, drivers, cyclists and other vehicles. The benefits of the the changes, according to GDOT, should be reduced frequency and severity of crashes, reduced delays and improved safety and emergency response times.
More information and the project presentation from last year can be found at us-80-tybee-safety-improvements-0019699-gdot.hub.arcgis.com.
Destini Ambus is the general assignment reporter for the Savannah Morning News, covering the municipalities, and community and cultural programs. You can reach her at DAmbus@gannett.com
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