AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – We are learning more about a long-awaited mixed-used redevelopment project at the old Aiken Mall.
The project will bring more businesses and apartments to the area to build up the infrastructure for the population growth in the city.
City leaders say developers are pouring in $46 million in investments that are getting closer to the live, work and play reality they’ve been working on.
Sharla Keith says the area is far from what she remembered it 20 years ago.
“Probably since COVID is where I’ve observed a big change,” says Keith, an Aiken resident. “This end used to be dang near country.”
Stuart Bedenbaugh with the City of Aiken says construction has made headway over the last year with more businesses coming to the property.
“I do think we’ll have some nice retail options for the public, as well as food and beverage establishments and service places,” says Bedenbaugh, Aiken city manager.
Bedenbaugh says crews are making progress on more than 250 apartments that could bring more than 700 people into the area.
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With plans for a hotel, walking trail, central plaza and other amenities soon to come, Bedenbaugh says this is all part of building up the infrastructure for a growing city.
“These illustrate growth, it’s good managed growth, and the water treatment plant is a harbinger of that,” says Bedenbaugh. “This project at Aiken Towne Park, and let’s not forget the Powder House connector road, will help ease some of the traffic concerns.”
Keith says she sees the growth not slowing down for Aiken anytime soon. A new direction she says she can’t wait to see.
“I’m starting to think about retirement, and as I’m coming up with the realities of physical capabilities, having an opportunity when I need to downsize, where I can access all the places that I need to will maybe be an advantage,” says Keith.
The developers for the project say they’re close in negotiations to bring in several more businesses.
They say to expect announcements within the next month or so.
City leaders say the apartments should be complete and ready for lease within the next year with the rest of the project to follow over the next few years.
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