News Summary
Surrey residents are voicing their concerns over the USPS decision to terminate the postal service contract at Surrey Center Pharmacy, ending 45 years of operation. Despite this setback, the pharmacy will continue to serve the community, with locals advocating for the restoration of postal services. Congressman Rick Allen expressed disappointment, pointing to the importance of the pharmacy’s role in the community. As the pharmacy explores alternative uses for the space, the community remains united in support of the vital services offered at this local establishment.
Surrey is experiencing community outcry following the recent decision by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to terminate the postal service contract at Surrey Center Pharmacy after 45 years of operation. The pharmacy has not only been a staple in the Augusta community but has also housed a small postal substation that provided essential mailing services to its customers.
In a letter received in June 2025, the pharmacy was informed of the termination, which is set to take effect after a 120-day notice period. The letter clarified that the closure was a retail decision made by USPS and not based on the pharmacy’s performance.
Local congressman Rick Allen has expressed disappointment regarding the USPS decision, highlighting the long-standing relationship Surrey Center Pharmacy has had with the community through its postal service. Community members have rallied together, signing petitions in hopes of preserving this vital service amidst uncertainties surrounding postal services in the area.
Despite the impending closure of the postal substation, Courtnee Russ, the owner of the pharmacy, has confirmed that the pharmacy will remain open and continue to serve residents. The pharmacy has long been recognized for its personal touch, providing tailored service that many residents, including seniors and individuals without access to technology, have come to rely on.
For customers like Beverly Peltier, the pharmacy’s connection played a crucial role in their lives, especially during emergencies such as Hurricane Helene, when she faced power outages and lost internet service for three weeks. The individualized service offered by Surrey Center Pharmacy has contributed significantly to its reputation in the community.
This decision to terminate the postal service is part of a broader trend, as multiple states have reported similar postal contract terminations. Congressman Allen has hinted that this closure reflects larger systemic issues within the USPS and has indicated his intention to advocate for new legislation aimed at increasing transparency regarding postal service closures.
While alternate post offices exist nearby, many customers feel these locations lack the personal touch that Surrey Center Pharmacy has provided over the years. The community has been vocal about its concerns over losing a trusted local service that has fostered a strong sense of familiarity and reliability.
In the wake of this decision, Russ is exploring opportunities to utilize the space currently occupied by the postal substation to better serve the community, aiming to fill the gap left by the closure of USPS services.
The history of Surrey Center Pharmacy demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the community, marked by a strong customer base and unwavering support. The pharmacy’s future focus will remain on delivering comprehensive services while adapting to the changing landscape of postal services and customer needs.
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Additional Resources
- The Augusta Press: Surrey Center Pharmacy Closing
- WRDW: Postal Service Pulls Plug on Drugstore Mail Services
- WRDW: Local Augusta Pharmacy Losing Post Office Contract
- Signal SCV: Whitesides Introduces Bill on Post Office Closures
- FreightWaves: Lawmakers Push USPS on Closure of Postal Units
- Wikipedia: United States Postal Service
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Postal Service
- Google Search: USPS Postal Closures
- Google Scholar: Postal Service Closures
- Google News: Postal Service Contract Closures
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.
