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Augusta-Richmond County Allocates Funds for Diamond Lakes Park Enhancements

Community members engaging in outdoor activities at the newly improved Diamond Lakes Regional Park.

News Summary

Augusta-Richmond County has approved a $500,000 improvement plan for Diamond Lakes Regional Park in Hephzibah, focusing on safety and amenities. Responding to community concerns about nighttime safety, the plan will utilize SPLOST funds for better lighting, streetlights, and park infrastructure. The enhancement aims to ensure the park remains a safe and attractive recreational destination for families and sports enthusiasts, demonstrating the county’s commitment to addressing public safety and community needs.

Augusta-Richmond County Allocates Funds for Diamond Lakes Regional Park Enhancements

Augusta-Richmond County commissioners have approved a $500,000 improvement plan for Diamond Lakes Regional Park in Hephzibah, Georgia, which aims to enhance the safety and amenities of the popular recreational area. This decision responds to community concerns regarding safety after dark and the necessity for better facilities for families and sports enthusiasts.

The park has been a focal point for various activities, including sports, family gatherings, and weekend outings. However, increasing safety concerns voiced by park users have prompted local officials to take action. A petition spearheaded by Frank Howard, a grandfather and community member, gained almost 1,800 signatures, calling for several critical safety upgrades.

Planned Improvements to Enhance Safety and Accessibility

The improvement plan will utilize SPLOST funds (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) to implement several upgrades. The improvements will focus on better lighting, which is a major concern for nighttime park users, as well as additional streetlights and enhanced walkway access. Other planned enhancements include installing new benches and pavilions to create a more inviting park atmosphere.

While the proposal includes several safety-focused improvements, the allocation for additional security cameras, amounting to $200,000, was excluded from the current funding. This decision indicates a phased approach to the proposed initiatives. According to Parks and Recreation Director Tameka Williams, the most costly requests were related to new sidewalk installations and enhanced security features for the park.

Community Support and Feedback

The enhancement plan received strong support from various community members. Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle highlighted the significance of the park as a “signature park,” noting its high usage rates and the general need for improvements. The community assessment performed prior to this proposal underscored the deep necessity for safety upgrades in recreational spaces, aligning with the voiced concerns of the local residents.

With the current approved budget estimated at around $491,000, there is a slight reserve within the funding that allows for flexibility in addressing other potential needs in the future. The approval represents a major step towards ensuring that Diamond Lakes Regional Park remains a safe, attractive destination for all residents and visitors seeking recreational opportunities.

Background on Diamond Lakes Regional Park

Diamond Lakes Regional Park has long served as a central hub for the Hephzibah community, drawing families for sports and leisure activities. However, over time, reports of safety issues, particularly after hours, have raised alarms among park users. The community’s call for action demonstrates a collective desire for a safer environment, emphasizing the importance of upgrading existing infrastructure to meet current needs.

With the city commission’s recent approval of the improvement plan, it is evident that local leaders recognize the value of this community asset and are taking steps to ensure it remains a safe haven for recreational activities for years to come. The focus on community-driven initiatives reflects the aspirations of residents who are committed to maintaining the quality of life and safety in their public spaces.