Downtown Augusta to Become More Vibrant and Walkable After its Revamp
Over the last couple of years, we have seen Downtown Augusta become more and more alive. New restaurants, revising the 5th Street Marina bridge, reopening of the Miller Theater, and much more. Well, it doesn’t seem to be stopping there. Downtown Augusta may soon become more walkable and vibrant with some streetscape improvements.
According to the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta, there are upcoming streetscape improvements in work. This will bring new life into Downtown Augusta. Some of these investments involve curb extensions, benches, green spaces, parks, sidewalk improvements, public art, and lighting to make streets more pedestrian-friendly and walkable.
Another investment around the streetscape is incorporating greenspaces and public seating. When thinking about the current Downtown Augusta, there is really only one green space, which is the Augusta Commons. There is not much seating space out, there as well as just around downtown.
Not only will more green spaces be getting added, but roadwork will also be done. There will be road resurfacing and the restriping of traffic lanes, with the addition of new bike lanes in both directions.
More seating will be incorporated along the Broad Street median and Augusta Common.
Across from the Augusta Commons is the James Brown Linear Park, which will also be getting a “facelift.” The James Brown Statue that stands at the center will be elevated. The new design will also incorporate a new water feature and musical element. Several unique shade structures will be installed to give visitors spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Take a look at a few early concepts of the pending transformation of Broad Street. The new James Brown Linear Park is slated to bring a new greenspace to the heart of Downtown Augusta! #LoveAugusta #AugustaForward pic.twitter.com/VieZDqkBUt
— Odie Donald II (@odonaldii) February 21, 2022
More public spaces such as plazas, parks, and common areas will provide residents and visitors places to sit, eat, play, and socialize. We do have very nice fountains and public art, but more will be added as well as interactive kiosks to engage the community.
The city commissioners are hoping that the end result is for a more walkable, vibrant, thriving city that will attract both residents and visitors alike.
This will be the biggest renovation Broad Street’s ever seen. The estimated completion date is 2025.
While this has been a conversation for many years, I am excited to hopefully see some construction get started. This will be a huge win for the CSRA!
