City leaders discuss potential uses for old jail site in Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta leaders are looking at the possibility of transforming the property where the old jail on Walton Way used to be.

A couple years ago, they decided to demolish it shortly after parts of it were featured in the movie ‘Suicide Squad.’

It’s still up in the air on what this land could be used for. City leaders gathered on Wednesday to discuss what would be best.

People who live in the community are hoping it’ll improve the area.

It’s the beginning of something new off Walton Way.

“There’s a lot of commercial land down here. People want to move down here but they ain’t got nothing to do. All the facilities have been torn down,” said James Williams, who lives nearby.

And some city leaders agree, hoping to come together on ideas for what would fit best.

Commissioner Jordan Johnson said: “We need more shops in this area. We need more restaurants for families to be able to go to. We need more places for kids to patronize. We need things for our youth to do in the city of Augusta. This is six acres of opportunity that we can tap into. So I’m confident that these conversations will lead us to that point.”

It’s an area where people who live in the community have wanted to see improvements over the last few years.

“A nice grocery store that’ll help the community real good. That’ll make the value of the homes come up to,” said Williams.

From grocery stores to retail and green space, people are just hoping their ideas will be heard.

Cal Wray, Augusta Economic Authority President, said: “You got a lot of city-owned property. You’ve got the highly trafficked Gordon highway. So obviously a catalyst project that improves the entire area around it. But something also the residents want. That’s a key piece. If we put something here the residents don’t want, that’s not a win.”

The project is still in its early stages, but community members say they’re excited to see something new.

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