Augusta, GA

USA Cycling Championship benefits have lasting impact on Augusta

Published

2 years ago

July 29, 2024

USA Cycling Championship benefits have lasting impact on Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The 2024 USA Cycling Masters & Juniors Road National Championship criterium finished over the weekend at the Augusta Common.

Organizers say roughly 1,000 bikers participated in the event.

The championship wrapped up around 7:30 p.m. but the impact from it is long term.

Organizers say this race is estimated to bring 1 million dollars to Augusta, which benefits our local economy.

People from all over the country – came to Augusta to cycle and enjoy the southern culture.

“Yeah, I think this event is a perfect example of what sports tourism does to our community,” said Michelle Pippin a member from Augusta Sports Council.

From Atlanta to California, thousands flooded the streets of Augusta.

But regardless of the distance, Bonnie Walker with USA Cycling says the garden city is the place to be.

“Our racers and riders families like to come to the city just to experience the south for those who aren’t from here and Augusta has just opened their arms and welcomed us in,” said Bonnie Walker from USA Cycling.

It’s not the first time Augusta has hosted USA Cycling, but for some in the crowd, this was their first time in the city.

“I have to say that everybody is so friendly- very real – very approachable. It’s a little hot and sticky for me but other than that it’s been quite a nice time being out here,” said Andrea Tyson.

One thing Andrea has enjoyed- is good southern food.

“I have tried a few local BBQ places and some Poke place,” said Tyson.

From the hospitality to the food, the Garden City welcomed all cyclists here with open arms.

Bonnie Walker says this is the last year Augusta will be hosting a USA Cycling Championship for a while.

She says while she is sad to leave Augusta, she hopes to host another event here soon rather than later.

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Augusta, GA

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

Published

53 minutes 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

13 hours 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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Augusta, GA

Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn opens on Broad Street in Augusta

Published

1 day ago

February 27, 2026

Press Room

Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn opens on Broad Street in Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A new gourmet popcorn shop has opened on Broad Street, bringing a Chicago-style twist to downtown Augusta.

Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts, located at 716 Broad Street next to the Miller Theater, opened late last year. Owner Sheila Jones moved to Augusta from Chicago, where she said gourmet popcorn has a strong following.

“I’m from Chicago where gourmet popcorn is kind of a big deal,” Jones said.

Specialty flavors made in house

The shop offers specialty flavors including caramel, strawberry drizzle, peppermint, Oreo, green apple, and peanut butter — all made in house. Jones said the experience starts before customers even reach the counter.

“The smell is part of the experience. Green apple, strawberry, strawberry drizzle with chocolate. We have a new peanut butter flavor I just did,” Jones said.

A business built for family

Jones said her move to Augusta and her decision to open the business were driven by her son, who is on the autism spectrum. She said she believed he would be more comfortable in Augusta and wanted to build something that would benefit him long-term.

“I wanted him to have something when he gets older. He has a job already if he wants one. He already has a business,” Jones said.

Jones said starting the business has been harder than she expected. She handles most operations herself, with some help from family. She said the purpose behind the shop keeps her motivated.

“Coming into this every day is fulfilling because I built it. I’m building it and I just wanna see how high we’ll go,” Jones said.

Popn’ Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The shop is also holding a pop-up Saturday at noon on Gordon Highway.

Here’s a link to their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584084467886#

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