News Summary
Developers have announced a multi-million dollar renovation of the Union Lofts apartments in downtown Augusta, aiming to create 40 modern apartments and retail space. Mayor Garnett Johnson will discuss its impact on local economy and tourism, while preserving historic buildings. Construction starts in September with an expected completion in December 2026. The project responds to the rising demand for urban living spaces, particularly among medical students and young professionals.
Augusta, Georgia – Developers of the Union Lofts apartments have unveiled a multi-million dollar renovation project poised to transform downtown Augusta. Set to commence in September, this substantial undertaking targets structures located in the 600 block of Broad Street and aims to create a mixed offering of 40 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, complemented by 3,000 square feet of retail space dedicated to small businesses.
Augusta’s Mayor Garnett Johnson is expected to highlight economic development, recreation, and tourism along the Savannah River during discussions surrounding the project, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the local landscape through revitalization efforts. The Union Lofts project specifically aims to cater to a demographic of medical students from Augusta University and young professionals seeking modern urban living arrangements.
Key components of the renovation plan include restoring, renovating, and preserving several historic buildings, safeguarding the architectural integrity of the area. The new apartments will feature modern amenities, such as onsite parking, an outdoor activity space, a resident lounge, grills, and other communal facilities designed to enhance the quality of life for residents.
Construction is slated to begin in September, pending the approval of plans and the acquisition of necessary permits. The anticipated completion date for the project is December 2026, at which point leasing for the new apartments is expected to kick off in late summer or early fall of the following year.
As construction proceeds, residents and visitors to Broad Street should be prepared for potential traffic disruptions, as lane closures are already planned due to the ongoing construction of a new park in the area. In addition to the residential offerings, several retail bays have reportedly been pre-leased to Breakwater, a hotel investment company focused on renovating and rebranding the Ramada Plaza on Broad Street.
Despite current challenges reflected by numerous vacant stores on Fifth Street, local efforts are underway to attract premium commercial tenants, enhancing the vibrancy of downtown Augusta. The Union Lofts project has garnered recognition, having received a statewide Excellence in Rehabilitation Award from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. This accolade underscores the project’s successful efforts in restoring historic properties while preserving their original design features, including windows, balconies, staircases, and façades.
The past few years have demonstrated a growing demand for residential apartments and lofts in downtown Augusta, with various development projects in various stages of completion. Reports indicate that about 450 apartment units are currently in progress throughout downtown, with multiple projects expected to wrap up in the adjacent months. Additionally, the average rent for units at Union Lofts will range from $1,500 to $2,000 per month for one- and two-bedroom units. While these rates exceed the county’s average rent of $1,241, they remain in high demand, resulting in a packed waiting list.
In 2023, downtown Augusta recorded a notable 10% increase in new business openings, with 56 new establishments emerging within the Broad Street area alone. Furthermore, since 2021, around 1,200 new apartments have been added to the downtown landscape, illustrating the sustained interest and growth in urban living options.
The Union Lofts renovation project symbolizes a pivotal moment for Augusta, blending preservation efforts and innovative urban development that seeks to reimagine the city’s future while honoring its rich history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Brunswick Honors Historic Preservation Projects at Annual Event
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Historic Buildings Become Apartments Downtown Augusta
- Google Search: Union Lofts Augusta
- WFXG: Union Lofts Project Earns Statewide Preservation Award
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Redfin: Apartments for Rent in Augusta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta, Georgia
