Augusta, GA
New Trader Joe’s opening will be closest store to Augusta — But it will still be a drive
See why this new Trader Joe’s store is confusing social media
Trader Joe’s opened a new store directly across the street from an existing Trader Joe’s location in Sherman Oaks, California.
Stores like Buc-ee’s aren’t the only one with a cult following, and a new one is coming within a day-trip’s distance from Augusta.
Trader Joe’s is opening seven new grocery stores including one in Columbia, SC. Here’s what we know:
Where is Trader Joe’s in Columbia, SC?
The new location will be built at 275 Harbison Blvd. while there is already another location at 4516 Forest Dr.
When does Trader Joe’s in Columbia, SC open?
As of Wednesday, an opening date has not been announced for the new location. The Columbia store that’s already running is open every day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
What is Trader Joe’s known for?
Similar to its distant relative Aldi’s, Trader Joe’s has a large selection of affordable, non-name brand groceries. They are also known for having particularly unique items and a popular collection of private-label products. The ambiance is also very singular as Trader Joe’s boasts especially friendly staff in a bright, tropically-decorated market.
Is Trader Joe’s hiring?
As of Wednesday, Trader Joe’s job portal had no openings for the Columbia locations.
How many Trader Joe’s are in Georgia?
There are currently nine Trader Joe’s open in Georgia with a 10th slated to open sometime this year in Peachtree City. They are largely around the metro Atlanta area and Athens, the closest Georgia location to Augusta. For more info, go to locations.traderjoes.com/ga/.
Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for Gannett/USA Today. Find him on Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@gannett.com.
Augusta, GA
Augusta Dream Center sees surge in families needing food as summer begins
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Augusta Dream Center is seeing more families turn to its food pantry this summer as children lose access to school lunches.
Organizations like the Augusta Dream Center see a surge in families who relied on school lunches during the academic year, according to Hallie Kohan, assistant director.
“We see a lot more families that have young kids who are in need that simply don’t have those meals they are normally getting,” Kohan said. “We see an influx of families that come through.”
Demand is up, but the food supply is not keeping pace.
“Right now we are having some food distribution issues so while we are seeing an increase in families, we are seeing a decrease in the amount of food coming through our doors,” Kohan said.
The center is asking the community to host food drives or donate kid-friendly items such as mac and cheese and oatmeal.
Every Sunday the Dream Center opens its doors for a hot meal, serving as many as 120 people.
“Families can come in and get their hot meal. They sit down, it’s dignified, it’s a diner,” Kohan said. “It’s a welcoming experience for kids to come in and not feel like they are in need.”
No paperwork is required to receive help.
“Just because you think someone is in a great situation, in today’s economy you never know,” Kohan said. “It could be your neighbor, mom, or best friend.”
The Augusta Dream Center food pantry is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon and Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m. Hot meals are served Sundays from 5 to 6 p.m.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Progress continues on James Brown Linear Park in downtown Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Construction continues on the James Brown Linear Park in downtown Augusta, with ceiling tiles now installed inside the park structures.
The tiles feature designs showcasing the Godfather of Soul from different years in his career.
According to the city, the completed park will include an interactive water feature that will “dance” to Brown’s greatest hits. A statue of the music icon will return to a new stage at the park.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Augusta, North Augusta join for July Fourth celebration
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The city of Augusta is hosting an Independence Day event to celebrate America’s 250th birthday and the city’s 290th birthday.
Augusta is partnering with North Augusta for the event, telling the communities to meet at the river.
There will be food, music, crafts and more. Attendees are asked to bring their own lawn chairs.
The event starts at 5 p.m. with fireworks going off at 9:30 p.m. on July 4.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
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