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North Augusta City Council Approves Georgia Avenue Improvements

The proposed enhancements on Georgia Avenue aim to improve safety and traffic flow.

News Summary

The North Augusta City Council has decided to advance the Georgia Avenue Improvement Project, which follows a comprehensive traffic calming study conducted over four years. A contract with Kimley-Horn for engineering services has been authorized for the project’s first phase, estimated to cost around $2.34 million. This phase aims to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety on Georgia Avenue, enhancing the busy ‘Malfunction Junction’ area. Community feedback has been gathered, and while improvements are underway, future phases still require funding and approvals.

North Augusta—The North Augusta City Council voted on June 2, 2025, to move forward with the Georgia Avenue Improvement Project, adopting the results of a comprehensive four-year traffic calming study. The Council has authorized a contract for engineering services with the firm Kimley-Horn for the project’s initial phase, which is estimated to cost approximately $2.34 million.

The improvements will focus on Georgia Avenue, spanning from the South Carolina state line to the intersection with Carolina and Jackson Avenues, commonly referred to as Malfunction Junction. The aim of the project is to enhance both traffic flow and pedestrian safety in this heavily traveled area.

A public comment session held on May 12 drew between 65 and 70 residents, who expressed their views on the proposed enhancements. The initial phase of the project will include several significant alterations, such as switching from angled parking to parallel parking, the addition of center medians, the installation of high-visibility crosswalks, and the implementation of pedestrian-operated crossing signals.

Funding for Phase One is being sourced from both current and future cycles of the countywide penny sales tax, which is designed to support local infrastructure projects. While the Council has approved the engineering contract, the actual budget for this phase has yet to be finalized, with further discussions planned to determine the specific scope of improvements.

Although construction for Phase One is projected to begin as early as late 2025 or early 2026, the timeline will depend on the progression of subsequent approvals and preparations. The engineering report created by Kimley-Horn serves as a guiding document for the project but allows for minor adjustments based on public input. Notably, any significant changes will require additional approval from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT).

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, not all Council members are entirely satisfied. Councilman Dennis Briatico expressed concerns about restrictions on potential alterations in the final design, which may influence his support for the engineering contract. Additionally, the earlier rejection of a less expensive improvement option highlighted the Council’s commitment to pursuing a more robust proposal aimed at genuinely enhancing safety.

Phase Two of the Georgia Avenue project remains in the conceptual stage, with no funding secured at this time. Previously discussed ideas, such as a proposed $3.75 million roundabout, have also failed to gain the necessary financial backing, further complicating future phases.

As Kimley-Horn secures its role in this project, the firm will act as an umbrella contract for ongoing and future traffic engineering initiatives in North Augusta, indicating a long-term commitment to improving the city’s transportation infrastructure.

Around the community, the anticipation surrounding the Georgia Avenue Improvements reflects a broader desire for safer roads and enhanced pedestrian facilities. As discussions continue, residents and officials alike will be watching closely for developments on this significant infrastructure initiative.