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Augusta Approves Improvements for Diamond Lakes Park

Rendering of proposed improvements at Diamond Lakes Park

News Summary

The Augusta Commission has approved a series of enhancements aimed at improving safety and accessibility at Diamond Lakes Park. The initiative, driven by a community petition, seeks to address longstanding issues and includes the addition of sidewalks and better security. At an estimated cost of $491,000, funding from tax revenues is allocated for the upgrades. The proposed changes aim to prioritize urgent safety concerns, particularly regarding lighting, ensuring a better experience for community visitors and park users.

Augusta has taken a significant step toward enhancing the safety and accessibility of Diamond Lakes Park by approving a series of improvements aimed at bettering the experience for its visitors. This decision comes in response to a community-led petition spearheaded by Frank Howard, which gathered nearly 2,000 signatures in favor of the upgrades.

During a recent committee meeting, the Augusta Commission expressed its strong commitment to the enhancements. Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle referred to Diamond Lakes as the “signature park” of Augusta, emphasizing its importance and heavy usage within the community. The proposed improvements, deemed “a long time coming,” are expected to tackle longstanding issues concerning the park’s conditions.

The initiative, which has an estimated total cost of $491,000, is backed by $500,000 currently allocated from SPLOST 8 tax revenues specifically for improvements to Diamond Lakes Park. Reports from Augusta’s Parks and Recreation, Central Services, and Engineering departments include a comprehensive proposal and cost breakdown for the necessary enhancements.

Among the most critical items on the proposal list discussed at the meeting were additional sidewalks near the park entrance and expanded security camera coverage. However, during the committee session, the proposed $200,000 allocation for security cameras was removed from the budget. Notably, many items on the list have already been resolved or can be implemented at minimal cost, indicating progress toward improving the park.

Commissioner Alvin Mason highlighted the necessity for speed humps within the park and requested a priority list to ensure the most urgent improvements are addressed first. Residents of Augusta and frequent visitors to Diamond Lakes Park, particularly those involved in youth sports and community events, have voiced their concerns regarding inadequate lighting and accessibility, especially after dark when safety issues arise.

Specific complaints from park users, such as poor lighting conditions affecting basketball play, underscore the urgency of these improvements. Local residents have consistently reported that safety issues spike after sunset due to insufficient illumination, indicating a direct need for enhancements that address these concerns.

The Augusta Commission plans to revisit the enhancement proposal in two weeks during the next committee cycle, where it will be placed under the Public Service agenda for further discussion and potential action. This ongoing dialogue reflects a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining safe, accessible recreational spaces for the community.

With Diamond Lakes Park serving as a vital destination for recreational activities and community events, there is a united support from residents and visitors alike for the proposed upgrades. The commission’s proactive steps underline its commitment to creating a safer and more accessible environment, ensuring that Diamond Lakes Park can continue to be a cornerstone of the Augusta community for years to come.