HISTORY
The St. Simons Land Trust and the Southeast Georgia Health System (SGHS) partnered in 2023 to protect in perpetuity this rare, roughly ten-acre tract of forested property on the south-end of St. Simons Island. Known as the “Gateway” property because of its proximity to the westbound access lanes of F. J. Torras Causeway, the land is bounded by Sea Island Road to the east, Demere Road to the south, and is contiguous with the historic Gascoigne Bluff Park (to the west) that is owned and managed by Glynn County.
The Gateway Property was previously owned by the Sea Island Company and was sold to SGHS in 2003. Part of the original larger tract of land that was owned by Sea Island includes the present-day medical complex on Wellness Way and adjoining five-acre tract of undisturbed land that the Health System has retained as a buffer to Sea Island Road.
Funds used to acquire the property came from multiple sources, including revenue from the Land Trust’s Pennies for Preservation 1% voluntary giving program, money from last year’s Phase II of the SSLT Canopy Campaign (a $5.5 million capital campaign), and funds from a bequest that was received in early 2023.
“Acquisitions of this size, that benefit the entire community, could not be made without the generous support of so many. We are truly grateful to be part of a community that works together to conserve the natural and historical significance of this island.”
— Emily Ellison, SSLT Executive Director
FEATURES
The property is connected hydrologically to the marsh habitat to the south across the Torras Causeway and has numerous environmental values including mature trees, mid and understory shrubbery, and marsh/upland fringe habitat. These natural features support nesting native and migratory birds such as wood storks, osprey, hawks, owls and songbirds.
FUN FACT: The Bald Eagle and Painted Bunting are two protected species that frequently visit this property and the surrounding area.
GALLERY
