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North Augusta City Council Seeks Public Input on Safety Upgrades

Proposed safety improvements for Georgia Avenue in North Augusta aim to enhance both pedestrian and vehicle safety.

News Summary

The North Augusta City Council is gathering public feedback on proposed safety improvements for Georgia Avenue, with an estimated cost of $6 million. An informal comment session will be held on May 12, 2025, where residents can voice their opinions on the recommended changes. These improvements include wider sidewalks and a roundabout at a problematic intersection, with an aim to enhance pedestrian and vehicle safety amidst population growth. Community participation is encouraged to shape the future of downtown safety and accessibility.

North Augusta City Council to Gather Public Feedback on Proposed $6 Million Safety Improvements for Georgia Avenue

The North Augusta City Council is inviting public feedback on proposed safety improvements for Georgia Avenue, aimed at enhancing both pedestrian and vehicle safety. An informal public comment session is set for Monday, May 12, 2025, where residents can share their opinions on the planning commission’s recommended changes, which could cost nearly $6 million.

This initiative follows a previous opportunity for public input held in fall 2022. The North Augusta Planning Commission has developed a block-by-block improvement plan based on a traffic study commissioned in 2020, funded by a $50,000 federal grant. Mayor Briton Williams has highlighted the urgency of these improvements, emphasizing the necessity of slowing down traffic to promote local businesses and create a family-friendly, walkable downtown environment.

Proposed Improvements and Costs

The planned enhancements for Georgia Avenue include wider sidewalks, buffered parking, and the construction of a roundabout at the notorious “Malfunction Junction,” which is where Georgia Avenue intersects with Carolina and Jackson Avenues. The roundabout is estimated to cost $3.75 million and is intended to address ongoing traffic concerns that have been discussed by the City Council in past meetings.

The planning commission’s proposal may increase total improvement costs to nearly $7 million if additional funding for wider sidewalks is pursued. This financial consideration is part of ongoing discussions among council members, which took place during their meeting on April 28, 2025. Although no official vote on the proposal has been scheduled, the council is keen on gathering community insights during the upcoming public comment period.

Community Participation and Population Growth

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the May 12 meeting, which will occur at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Building located at 100 Georgia Ave. This meeting will serve as a platform for residents to voice their opinions about the future of Georgia Avenue’s safety and accessibility. Councilwoman Pat Carpenter has voiced support for the roundabout, underscoring the importance of ensuring accessibility for local businesses amidst the proposed changes.

The safety improvements response aims to address the challenges caused by North Augusta’s recent population growth, which has increased by 16% in the last decade. Enhancing the downtown infrastructure is seen as critical to accommodating this growth and improving the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Background Context

Since the commissioning of the traffic study in 2020, the focus on these improvements has gained momentum, driven by the need for a safer and more accessible environment. The previously held public comment period in fall 2022 allowed council members and planners to gauge community needs and aspirations. The feedback received during these discussions has significantly shaped the recommendations being considered now.

As North Augusta continues to evolve, projects like these are vital for maintaining a vibrant downtown that meets the needs of its growing population. The ongoing efforts to improve Georgia Avenue reflect a commitment to not just addressing current traffic issues but also creating a conducive atmosphere for business development and community engagement.

Residents are reminded that their feedback is crucial in shaping the future improvements on Georgia Avenue, making participation in the upcoming meeting an essential opportunity for public involvement.