News Summary
The Augusta Historic Preservation Commission has convened to discuss a proposal for a new hotel at 1140 Broad Street in the Historic District. While the property owner aims to replace the existing building, concerns about security and potential deterioration have emerged, particularly following a recent fire. The commission is seeking more detailed plans and a concrete timeline before making a decision. Other significant projects are also underway, including renovations of existing hotels, aimed at revitalizing downtown Augusta.
Augusta – The Augusta Historic Preservation Commission convened on September 26, 2025, to discuss a proposal for a new hotel in the city’s Historic District at 1140 Broad Street. The meeting focused on plans to demolish the existing building and replace it with a new hotel, initiated by the property owner’s attorney, Jim Trotter.
During the meeting, Trotter expressed the vision of his clients to develop a new hotel on the property. However, the proposal faced considerable scrutiny from commission members due largely to concerns surrounding the security of the site. Specifically, Commissioner Bob Young voiced worries regarding the potential deterioration of the property following a recent fire that has prompted an ongoing arson investigation.
Young highlighted the risks associated with “demolition by neglect,” cautioning that prolonged delays in development can lead to properties becoming too deteriorated to be renovated. To address these concerns, he requested that the applicant provide more detailed plans for the hotel, which should include a concrete timeline and a letter of intent from the prospective hotel company before the next commission meeting scheduled for October 23rd.
Trotter indicated his intention to present more definitive plans at the upcoming meeting. Nevertheless, the recent fire at the site complicates these efforts, as the investigation requires the building to remain undisturbed for evidence collection. The Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department is currently conducting its investigation regarding the fire incident.
Young emphasized the importance of protecting and stabilizing older properties to preserve their historic value. The members of the preservation commission recognize the need for cautious and proactive measures to ensure that historic sites do not fall into disrepair.
Other Developments in Downtown Augusta
Amid the discussions concerning the proposed hotel, the commission also acknowledged other significant development projects underway in downtown Augusta. Notably, the ongoing renovation of the Ramada Hotel and the transformation of the Olde Federal Building into a boutique hotel have attracted attention. These projects are projected to create jobs and increase local property tax evaluations.
The Augusta City Council has approved a substantial tax break of $2.6 million over 20 years to support the Olde Federal Building project. The redevelopment will include a 40-room hotel, spa, café, rooftop bar, and meeting space, with construction anticipated to begin in spring 2026. This project is expected to open within 12 to 18 months following the start of construction.
Conclusion
The Augusta Historic Preservation Commission continues to navigate planning challenges posed by new developments while prioritizing the preservation of historic properties. The outcome of the hotel proposal will depend on the applicant’s ability to address the commission’s concerns, particularly those related to property security and the impact of recent events at the site.
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Additional Resources
- Lodging Magazine: My Place Hotels of America Opens Property in Augusta, Georgia
- WFXG: Vacant Ramada Plaza in Downtown Augusta to Become Four-Star Hotel
- Central Maine: Augusta Councilors Approve $2.6 Million Tax Break for Proposed Downtown Riverfront Boutique Hotel
- WJBF: Developers Request Rezoning for Hotel off Wheeler Rd
- GlobeSt: Augusta Leads Georgia Hotel Boom with 64% RevPAR Growth
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Google Search: Augusta Hotel News
- Google Scholar: Augusta Hotel Developments
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta, Georgia
- Google News: Augusta Hotel Developments
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.
