News Summary
City leaders in Augusta are working on SPLOST 9, a tax extension initiative to generate funds for essential repairs and improvements. The projected revenue exceeds $400 million, with a focus on infrastructure, public safety, and community enhancements. The project list will be finalized soon, and a public vote is scheduled for November. Key allocations include road improvements and Riverwalk enhancements, reflecting the city’s commitment to upgrading local facilities and services.
Augusta city leaders are preparing to propose SPLOST 9, a special tax extension initiative aimed at raising funds for necessary city repairs and improvements. This extension will not change the current tax rate but will continue the existing Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), which levies a 1% sales tax in the community.
The anticipated revenue from SPLOST 9 is projected to exceed $400 million, with these funds designated for various city improvement projects. The city leaders are expected to finalize and present the project list for SPLOST 9 in an upcoming session on Tuesday. Following their deliberations, the Augusta commissioners will then take a vote on the plan before it goes to the public for approval in November.
The proposed projects within SPLOST 9 aim to address a variety of infrastructure and quality-of-life issues. Key focus areas include the repair of potholes, necessary building repairs, enhancements to local parks, roadwork, and flood prevention measures. Notably, over half of the proposed projects are designed to enhance public safety and overall infrastructure in Augusta.
Among the significant projects highlighted are plans to resurface city streets, upgrade fire stations, and ensure proper maintenance of public parks. An additional $8 million is earmarked for improvements to the Riverwalk, with ambitions to extend the area down to the boathouse, thereby enhancing recreational opportunities and attracting more visitors.
City Administrator Tameka Allen has recommended a total of $426 million worth of projects for the SPLOST 9 discussion, though this figure may be adjusted before the final vote. Among the recommended allocations are $65 million for a new jail pod, $110 million aimed at improving roads and drainage, and an additional $65 million set aside for projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
Some members of the city commission have voiced strong support for the SPLOST initiative, viewing it as a necessary investment after decades of deferred maintenance and improvements in the city. Mayor Pro-Tem Wayne Guilfoyle has emphasized that adequately funded projects are essential to deliver visible and tangible results for taxpayers.
As the preparations for SPLOST 9 progress, the Augusta community remains engaged in discussions about the potential economic and recreational benefits of revitalizing local infrastructure. Resident and Riverwalk supporter Eugene Dunbar has pointed out the opportunity for increased business development along the Riverwalk as a result of these proposed improvements.
Chief Meteorologist Riley Hale has added that many tourists often draw unfavorable comparisons between Augusta’s Riverwalk and the more bustling Riverwalk in Savannah, highlighting the latter’s abundance of restaurants and shops. This feedback could drive further enthusiasm for the proposed enhancements to Augusta’s Riverwalk area.
For the November vote to proceed, city leaders must approve the final project list for SPLOST 9 by August 18. The anticipation surrounding this initiative reflects local leaders’ commitment to addressing the city’s long-standing infrastructure needs while improving the overall quality of life for Augusta residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Augusta Commission Approves Improvements at Diamond Lakes Park
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Hopes & Dreams for Augusta
- The Augusta Press: Time to Hit Reset
- MSN: SPLOST 9 Overview
- WJBF: Augusta Administrator Recommends SPLOST 9 Projects
- The Augusta Press: SPLOST 9 Project List Opposition
- Wikipedia: Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax
- Google Search: Augusta SPLOST 9
- Google Scholar: SPLOST 9 Augusta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta
- Google News: SPLOST 9 Initiative
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
