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New Arena Construction Set to Transform Augusta

The construction of the new arena in Augusta is set to commence, promising to revitalize the downtown area.

News Summary

Construction on a new state-of-the-art arena in Augusta is set to begin following the demolition of the old James Brown Arena. With a seating capacity of 10,000, the arena will host around 100 events annually, including concerts and hockey games. The project aims to revitalize downtown Augusta and create approximately 300 jobs. Plans include improved seating options and connections to existing facilities. Public sentiment is mixed due to parking concerns, but overall, the project is anticipated to enhance the local economy and entertainment offerings by 2027.

Augusta, GA – Construction on a new state-of-the-art arena is set to begin following the demolition of the old James Brown Arena. The new facility will have a seating capacity of 10,000 and is anticipated to host around 100 events annually, including concerts, family shows, and hockey games. The arena is part of a broader effort to revitalize downtown Augusta and attract larger entertainment events to the area.

A recent hardhat tour of the construction site revealed a landscape ready for development, with smooth sand and heavy construction equipment already set up. Currently, the project is in the backfill and settlement phase, where the foundation is being prepared before vertical construction starts later this year.

Jon Rawlins, the project manager, expects construction to accelerate once the settlement period is complete, with an increase in workforce and activity on site. The arena’s design incorporates premium seating options, which include suites, box seating, and specially-designed party facilities. A key feature will be the connection to the Bell Auditorium via a connector building that will house shared facilities such as a box office and kitchen.

In a notable addition to the local economy, it is expected that the construction will create approximately 300 jobs by spring, benefiting local businesses including restaurants and hotels. Moreover, local dining establishments will have the opportunity to provide concessions in the arena, further promoting the local culinary scene.

Efforts have also been made to mitigate the flooding problems experienced with the previous arena. To prevent similar issues, the event floor of the new arena has been raised to eliminate potential water complications. The design strives to enhance the overall fan experience, with offerings like loge boxes, party boxes, and a premium club area at center ice.

Public sentiment regarding the project includes mixed responses, especially concerning downtown parking. A petition aiming to preserve parking spaces in the area has garnered 1,500 signatures from local business owners. This concern highlights the balance that needs to be struck between development and maintaining access to existing amenities.

The arena project is financed by a voter-approved sales tax initiative, making it a community-supported development. It is projected to be completed by 2027. The estimated capacity of 10,000 seats has been validated by two consulting firms, asserting it is an optimal size for Augusta.

The return of hockey to Augusta is also being pursued, as officials are actively working to secure a hockey team to utilize the new facility. This sporting aspect adds to the diverse range of events the arena aims to host, which aims to cater to a wide audience and expand entertainment offerings in the region.

In tandem with the construction of the arena, a new shopping center has been proposed for the site of the former First Baptist Church of Evans. This upcoming development is expected to include a mixture of shopping options, restaurants, and a bank branch, further enriching the downtown Augusta experience.

As demolition of the old arena has concluded, much of its structure was recycled. Components such as seats and fixtures were sold or given away, while concrete and steel materials have been repurposed for future use. This commitment to sustainability reflects a growing trend in construction and development in the region.

The construction of the new arena represents a significant step forward for Augusta, promising to not only revitalize the downtown area but also provide economic benefits and an enhanced cultural landscape for residents and visitors alike.