News Summary
Augusta is advancing a $426 million SPLOST 9 proposal aimed at enhancing local parks, public safety, and infrastructure. City Administrator Tameka Allen highlights that $290 million will directly address urgent quality of life needs, including recreational facilities. With community members expressing concerns about inadequate amenities, the proposal includes upgrades for popular sites such as the Dyess Park pool and introduces the Outdoor Urban Adventure Center. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving public facilities and ensuring better access for residents.
Augusta is moving forward with a proposed SPLOST 9 package totaling $426 million aimed at enhancing the city’s parks, public safety, and infrastructure. City Administrator Tameka Allen has recommended this substantial budget, noting that $290 million would specifically address urgent needs related to quality of life, infrastructure, and public safety. The proposal comes amidst concerns over the deteriorating state of facilities and parks in Augusta.
One of the key elements of the SPLOST 9 initiative is the focus on inadequate recreational facilities, particularly the absence of public swimming pools. Community members have expressed their frustrations regarding this issue, and the proposal aims to address these concerns directly. Allen also provided an update regarding the Outdoor Urban Adventure Center, which is set to be a significant addition to the city’s recreational offerings, featuring an eight-story climbing tower and a riverside zipline.
Renovations are in progress at the Dyess Park pool, which has been closed for some time. As part of the upgrades, local residents in the Dyess Park area are expected to see improvements, including the resurfacing of courts and the installation of a splash pad. Additionally, the Jones Pool has also faced closures due to the deteriorating state of its pool house, which is a significant concern highlighted by the Central Services Director. The funds from the proposed package are intended to help restore the pool house and resurface the pool, making it more appealing and accessible for residents.
Residents such as Brenda Dent have expressed their disappointment over the current state of Jones Pool, emphasizing the fond memories and community engagement associated with it. Local community member Dora Hawes has pointed out the importance of having the pool operational during the sweltering summer months for children in the area. This sentiment underscores the need for the proposed upgrades to take place and highlights the social value of such community facilities.
The proposed SPLOST 9 budget also allocates $10 million specifically for upgrading facilities across Richmond County, reflecting a broader commitment to improving public amenities and infrastructure. Prior discussions revealed that requests for funding under SPLOST 9 were exceeding $1 billion, which indicates that the city needs to prioritize its investments strategically.
For the Outdoor Urban Adventure Center, the proposal requires approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before moving forward. The center will be operated by The Forge, a company that has successfully managed similar facilities in Chicago, with an agreement set to last until 2030. If permitting is expedited and materials are available promptly, construction for the Adventure Center is anticipated to last around six months, creating excitement around new recreational options for Augusta residents.
The previous SPLOST 8 funding round totaled $250.29 million, indicating a significant increase in the financial request for SPLOST 9. City Administrator Allen has emphasized that substantial investments in parks, cemeteries, and infrastructure are critical for Augusta to meet current and future community needs. As discussions continue around the proposed SPLOST 9 budget, it remains clear that the city’s officials are intent on addressing pressing issues regarding public amenities and the overall quality of life for residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta Proposes $426 Million SPLOST Budget for Community Improvements
Augusta Commission Approves Outdoor Urban Adventure Center
Augusta Approves New Outdoor Urban Adventure Center
Augusta Commission Approves Additional Funding for Downtown Projects
Augusta Commission Approves New Outdoor Adventure Center
Augusta Commission Approves New Speed Humps at Diamond Lakes Park
Augusta Approves Improvements for Diamond Lakes Park
Augusta Commission Approves Improvements at Diamond Lakes Park
Augusta-Richmond County Allocates Funds for Diamond Lakes Park Enhancements
New 10-Story Arena Construction Begins in Augusta
Additional Resources
- WRDW: SPLOST 9 – Diving Into Augusta’s List Needs
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Augusta Chronicle: Outdoor Adventure Park
- Google Search: Augusta Georgia parks
- The Augusta Press: Recommendations for SPLOST 9
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta, Georgia
- WRDW: First Look at SPLOST 9 Spending
- Google News: SPLOST 9 Augusta
- MSN: Augusta Administrator Recommends $426 Million SPLOST 9
- Google Scholar: Augusta Georgia city improvements
