AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta’s city administrator presented commissioners Tuesday with a four-step plan to establish a new grounds management system with a target launch date of Jan. 1.

The administrator told commissioners the first phase of the plan — preparation — is already complete. That step included gathering budget information from involved departments, meeting with department heads, drafting job descriptions for new positions, and building a draft budget based on existing city spending.

Five-month evaluation phase begins this spring

Starting in March, the administrator’s team will begin a service model evaluation running through July. That phase includes hiring a new department director, appointing a temporary transition lead, mapping mowing routes using GIS technology, and meeting with city crews, contractors, and community members.

Transition phase set for fall

By August, the focus shifts to a transition period that includes re-bidding contracts, finalizing staff assignments, and developing a public education campaign. The goal is to have new contracts in place by Jan. 1.

New department set to launch Jan. 1

That is when the Augusta Grounds Management Department officially opens, with new personnel, new equipment, and new contracts in place.

Commissioners received the update on Tuesday. The administrator’s team is expected to move into phase two next month.

City leaders have said overgrown grass is among the top complaints they receive.

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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A possible chemical leak on Columbia Nitrogen Drive is causing major traffic backups on I-520 Eastbound, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say that around 5:23 a.m., they responded to 1419 Columbia Nitrogen Drive following a report of a possible chemical leak.

Callers have reported a strong smell of ammonia near the scene.

The affected area has been restricted to through traffic while emergency personnel assess the situation.

Deputies are blocking the south portion of the intersection at Columbia Nitrogen Drive and Laney Walker Boulevard.

Select cars have been allowed through if they are parking at factories or businesses located between the police and fire units on scene.

No confirmed injuries have been reported at this time.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area and use alternate routes as deputies are assisting with traffic as the situation remains active.

Additional updates will be provided once the roadway is deemed safe for travel, according to the sheriff’s office.

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