ST. MARYS —This coastal city’s council will vote Monday to rezone a former paper mill site for new industry, jobs and, possibly, a much-different way of life.

The old Durango-Georgia Paper mill went bankrupt 15 years ago. Local officials have tried since to redevelop the 722-acre plot along the North River. A New York developer has big plans for factories, warehouses, maybe a barge port.

Yet no details have been forthcoming, worrying many locals who fear another polluting industry will befoul the pristine historic district that serves as the gateway to Cumberland Island Seashore Park.

About the Author

Keep Reading

An aerial image shows the main square at Atlantic Station with the Atlanta skyline in the background on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. 
(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Featured

Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez