900 acre mixed use development planned for Darien
Jamestown at Darien Announces Landmark 900-Acre Master-Planned Mixed-Use Development Community in Coastal Georgia Providing Housing, Healthcare, Retail, Hospitality, Recreation, and Long-term Economic Growth to McIntosh County.
In a major milestone for the future of Coastal Georgia, the City of Darien has officially approved the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Jamestown at Darien, a 900-acre master-planned mixed-use community strategically positioned between U.S. Highway 17 and Interstate 95 in McIntosh County.
The project will incorporate extensive architectural standards, landscaping requirements, and community design guidelines intended to preserve long-term quality, visual consistency, and property values throughout the development.
“This project is about much more than development — it’s about preparing responsibly for the future of Coastal Georgia,” said DJ Desai, developer of Jamestown at Darien.
“Darien sits in the path of extraordinary regional growth, and our vision is to create a community where families, businesses, healthcare providers, and future generations can thrive together while preserving the unique charm and identity that make this area so special.” Desai added that the project is being designed with a long-term vision focused on infrastructure planning, economic opportunity, quality of life, and sustainable community growth. Jamestown at Darien is strategically located along the rapidly expanding Coastal Georgia corridor between Savannah and Jacksonville — a region experiencing substantial population growth, industrial expansion, port activity, tourism demand, and investment interest. Community leaders believe the project aligns closely with the long-range goals outlined in the 2023 McIntosh County and City of Darien Comprehensive Plan, particularly as the region experiences increasing housing demand and economic activity. “Responsible growth requires thoughtful planning, strong leadership, and collaboration,” said Mayor Hugh ‘Bubba’ Hodge of Darien. “Jamestown at Darien has the potential to create new housing opportunities, attract investment, support local businesses, and strengthen the long-term future of our community while preserving the qualities that make Darien unique.”
Darien City Manager Holden Osburn added, “The City has worked closely with the development team throughout the planning process to ensure this project supports Darien’s long-term vision for managed growth, infrastructure planning, and economic development.” According to Thomas Draffin, President and CEO of the McIntosh County Development Authority, the project arrives at a pivotal moment for the region. “Coastal Georgia continues to see growing interest from residents, employers, and investors seeking opportunities along the Southeast coast,” said Draffin. “Projects like Jamestown at Darien can help address housing needs while creating jobs, supporting infrastructure investment, and expanding economic opportunities throughout McIntosh County.”
Desai credited local leadership for helping guide the project forward. “Both Holden Osburn and Tommy Draffin have been instrumental in helping bring this vision to life,” said Desai. “Growth is inevitable across the Southeast coast, but responsible growth requires leaders who understand how to plan for infrastructure, services, housing, and long-term quality of life. Communities that get this right position themselves for generations of success, and Darien is fortunate to have great leadership focused on doing exactly that.” The first national and regional homebuilder announcements associated with Jamestown at Darien are expected later in 2026.
About Jamestown at Darien: Jamestown at Darien is a master-planned mixed-use community located in Darien, Georgia, designed to support responsible long-term growth through residential, commercial, recreational, healthcare, and community-centered development opportunities in Coastal Georgia.For more information, visit:www.JamestownGA.com.