Augusta, GA

Opponents to tree removal in downtown Augusta invited to address commission

Published

2 years ago

July 17, 2024

Opponents to tree removal in downtown Augusta invited to address commission

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – When it comes to the planned removal of dozens of trees on Telfair Street, the mayor is getting an earful.

“Certainly hearing a lot of concern from our citizens you know Telfair Street is one of our most historic streets in all of our city. I also have concerns about some of the mature trees designated to be cut down,” said Mayor Garnett Johnson.

Dozens of trees are branded with an X slated for removal, the mayor so concerned he is added to Wednesday’s meeting allowing project opponents like the Riverkeeper the chance to air their concerns.

“You’re talking about a historic community we have very strong ordinances to protect that, there are trees that should be protected now all of them are now being axed,” said Savannah Riverkeeper Tonya Bonitatibus.

One on the chopping block is a Crepe Myrtle designated as a state champion due to its size and age, but even as a state champion it could be cut.

“It’s not protected by law, the legislature could protect it if someone had taken the effort to get it protected,” said Roy Simkins, Chair of the Augusta Tree Commission.

City Engineers say the project’s landscape architect is looking into whether some old trees can be saved, something supporters say needs to happen.

“A shame that you would cut down a champion designated tree.”

“Not only a shame it’s embarrassing to see a pink X on a champion Crepe Myrtle hopefully we got that resolved,” said Mayor Johnson.

“The commission should be aware of that and should know and go into changing this before it’s too late because I like to know who’s going to want to live Olde Town when it’s a barren landscape. trees don’t just grow over night,” said Bonitatibus.

As the opposition grows to removing so many old trees downtown.

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Augusta, GA

Protestors in downtown Augusta speak out after strikes on Iran

Published

2 hours ago

March 1, 2026

Press Room

Protestors in downtown Augusta speak out after strikes on Iran

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Local protestors made their voices heard after Israel and the U.S. announced strikes on Iran Saturday, ones that killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reports say.

Protesters lined 13th Street in Downtown Augusta and walked across the river to North Augusta to make sure as many people as possible heard them.

50501 CSRA already had a march planned for Saturday, but in light of the strikes on Iran, decided to expand its focus.

Local leaders spoke about their concerns for the strikes, and roughly 60 people showed up to share theirs as well.

One of the event organizers said to make your voice heard your voice heard.

“Just call your people, call your representatives, if you don’t like that Iran was bombed, I don’t either. But call people and let them know, email them. Let it be relentless. Congress did not approve this. They have a say in this,” Zee Cook said.

The strike is being called “Operation Epic Fury,” with Iran responding with multiple missile and drone strikes across the Middle East.

In a social media post, President Trump said the bombing of the country will continue “as long as necessary.”

People across the world began lining the streets as well in support and against the decision.

Leaders across the world reacted to the news, including those in Georgia and South Carolina.

There’s a protest planned in Charleston and other regional cities this week.

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Augusta, GA

Lock and Dam Park closing to public for a month in Augusta

Published

14 hours ago

February 28, 2026

Press Room

Lock and Dam Park closing to public for a month in Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The city of Augusta announced a temporary closure of New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Park.

Closure of the park at 2105 Lock and Dam Road will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair the lock and dam structure.

The park will be closed from March 4 to April 7.

All areas of the park will be closed.

However, the Baurle Boat Ramp will remain open and accessible to the public for fishing and boating activities.

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Augusta, GA

Augusta 911 call center earns statewide honor

Published

1 day ago

February 28, 2026

Press Room

Augusta 911 call center earns statewide honor

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Augusta 911 center has been named 2025 Communications Center of the Year at the Georgia Emergency Communications Conference in Athens.

The award recognizes excellence in public safety communications, innovation, leadership and service.

The award recognizes a center that demonstrates strong performance in emergency response coordination, training, technology and community engagement.

The Augusta center was selected among agencies statewide for its consistent service, professional standards and coordination with public safety partners.

“This recognition reflects the work our team does every single day,” said Daniel R. Dunlap, 911 director. “Our communications officers are the first point of contact during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life. They provide reassurance, direction and critical coordination until help arrives. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and strength they show.”

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