Augusta, GA
Despite $5M approval, South Augusta water park still lacks location, timeline
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta commissioners are moving forward with plans for a long-promised water park in South Augusta, but the city will not build the facility alone.
The city set aside $5 million in taxpayer money to help jump-start the water park project.
Instead of building it itself, Augusta is trying to recruit a private company to contribute additional funding and operate the park.
The city administrator said Destination Augusta has been collecting proposals and intends to meet with potential partners Tuesday.
Residents push for updates on water park progress
The water park remains in the early planning stages, with no confirmed location or timeline. Voters approved the $5 million in funding through SPLOST in 2021.
Frank Howard, who lives near Diamond Lakes Park, has pushed commissioners for months about the project.
“South Augusta is hungry, we are hungry for some change, for some improvement, for something coming to South Augusta,” Howard said.
Melvin Ivey, another area resident, said he wants transparency about the project’s status.
“We have voted on it twice and no one has said anything. No one has presented any plans or anything. I want to know what’s going on,” Ivey said.
Diamond Lakes Park sees improvements while water park plans develop
While water park plans continue, Diamond Lakes Park is adding three new shaded areas that are currently under construction.
Howard showed the improvements at the park, saying the additions are “much better” and “only the beginning.”
Ivey believes Diamond Lakes Park would be the ideal location for the water park because the site spans more than 250 acres.
“I think Diamond Lakes is the ideal location,” Ivey said. “Diamond Lakes is over 250 acres and all you need is depending on the size.”
Both residents emphasized the need for a quality facility that serves the entire community.
“If you gonna bring water park over here, bring a water park that’s going to be satisfactory to everybody in South Augusta. Not only South Augusta, but the whole Richmond County,” Howard said.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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