Augusta, GA

Augusta holding off removal of trees on Telfair Street to hear from community

Published

2 years ago

July 20, 2024

Augusta holding off removal of trees on Telfair Street to hear from community

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson toured Telfair Street to examine the trees slated for removal.

This project addresses decade-long flooding and brings sidewalks, bike lanes, and paved roads, but many were unhappy with some trees being cut down due to their history.

“We had an opportunity to learn a little bit more about what was going on, the timeline for the project,” said Jordan Johnson, Commissioner District 1. “And we were able to go to some of these that were slated for replacing, and these conversations about working around those trees were at the centerpiece of that conversation.”

The issue is that certain trees are tied into stormwater systems. But for now, they have halted the cutting and want to hear from the community because of the uproar and find a middle ground.

“We have a tree ordinance, and there is a purpose for that, and we need to understand the repercussions for our community if they’re gone. But I hope that the rest of the community will have their voice heard when it comes to Monday,” said Tonya Bonitatibus, Savannah Riverkeeper.

“Hear from neighbors and hear their concerns, but there is an opportunity for a happy medium to be reached, and we’re going to the table to figure out what that looks like,” said Johnson.

Johnson says they will make sure to keep communication with those in the area to keep them informed and also wants to remind them that this is to upgrade and not take away from the area.

“It’s going to look ugly for a little while. It’s going to be a little stressful as the progress is being made, but it’s going to get us to a better place,” said Johnson.

There will be a community meeting on Monday, June 22nd, at 6 p.m. at the Heritage Academy on Greene Street, where Johnson encourages the community to voice their feelings on this issue.

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Augusta, GA

Augusta mayoral candidates outline priorities during debate

Published

3 hours ago

March 30, 2026

Press Room

Augusta mayoral candidates outline priorities during debate

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Broadway Baptist Church hosted a debate Monday featuring the three candidates seeking to become Augusta’s next mayor.

Candidates Lori Myles, Steven Kendrick and Eric Gaines shared their goals and visions for the city as they campaigned for voters’ support ahead of the upcoming election.

“We need to focus on what the community needs. We’ve got to start being practical in Augusta-Richmond County,” Gaines said.

“I want to create better relationships with both our state and federal officials, so that our city can learn how to bring some of the dollars we need home. I hope I was able to provide enough information for people to choose me as the person to lead the city,” Kendrick said.

“I want them to go out and touch the masses and show that there is a new paradigm shift coming to Augusta. All of us are invested,” Dr. Myles said.

The primary election is scheduled for May 19. In addition to the mayoral race, voters will also decide several other contests, including five Augusta Commission seats.

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Augusta, GA

Augusta Fire to showcase progress on new Fire Station #3 construction

Published

15 hours ago

March 30, 2026

Press Room

Augusta Fire to showcase progress on new Fire Station #3 construction

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta Fire is showcasing progress on its new Fire Station #3 construction site Monday with a public tour of the facility.

The tour is scheduled from 11 a.m. to noon at the construction site at 2075 Powell Road.

The approximately 12,500-square-foot facility will feature three apparatus bays, modern living quarters, administrative space and support areas designed to enhance firefighter readiness and emergency response.

“The progress we’ve made on this fire station reflects our commitment to public safety and community resilience,” said Fire Chief Antonio Burden. “We’re proud of what this station represents for our community: enhanced protection, improved readiness and continued investment in the future.”

Johnson Laschober Associates designed the station. Spratlin Construction is building it in coordination with the Augusta government and the Augusta Fire Department leadership.

Representatives from Spratlin Construction will also be on-site to provide project updates.

The only entrance to the site is on Powell Road. Parking is not permitted on the construction site. Visitors should park along Powell Road and follow all posted safety guidance.

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Augusta, GA

Local group holds 4th annual walk against autism

Published

1 day ago

March 29, 2026

Press Room

Local group holds 4th annual walk against autism

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – April is Autism Awareness Month, and one local group raised awareness with a walk in Augusta on Sunday.

The fourth annual autism walk was hosted by Moving Over Mountains Against autism at Lake Olmstead Park.

All proceeds from the walk support autism awareness initiatives.

We spoke with the CEO and founder of the group, Deidre Roberson, who said this year they are dedicating the walk to their photographer, who died recently.

Roberson told us what she looks forward to the most.

“I look most forward to seeing the different people every year. We always meet different people, new people, and they come from all over the CSRA, so Washington, Wilkes, Carolina,” she said.

There were also several vendors providing resources to families.

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