After nearly six years of planning, the Augusta Commons project could see construction begin this fall.
City officials and the project's private-sector backers have resumed negotiations with downtown landowners whose property falls within the boundaries of the proposed urban greenbelt.
Demolition of the buildings between Broad and Reynolds streets would begin 60 to 90 days after the final piece of property is secured, said Julian Osbon, chairman of Augusta Tomorrow, the public-private organization that conceived the downtown park.
The city has acquired most of the land needed to finish the first phase of the project, which consists of the area between Eighth and Ninth streets from Broad to Reynolds streets.
But City Engineer Drew Goins, Augusta Commons project manager, said his engineers are on hold until all acquisitions are complete.
``We won't recommend that the project moves forward until then, but we believe the parties are close together,'' in reaching an agreement, Mr. Goins said.
City officials are in talks with the owner of the largest outstanding piece of property, the building that housed the former Richmond County Health Department offices.
``I think they have an agreed-upon price,'' Mr. Osbon said. ``But the city has said it is willing to condemn if necessary.''
City leaders envision the Commons will be a ``central park'' of sorts and the preferred location for outdoor community events. Phase 1 demolition, land acquisition and construction is estimated at $4 million. The project is being funded by the city and the Augusta Neighborhood Improvement Corp.
``The majority of the money is there. The loose ends need to be tied together, and the city must complete the acquisition of land,'' Mr. Osbon said.
The north end of the Commons is set to be anchored by the relocated Morris Museum of Art. Officials have no definite plans for the southern end, which is occupied by the old Kress department store building. They have discussed turning the vacant building into anything from a continuing education facility to a library.
Further land acquisition is required before Phase 2 of the project - everything north of Reynolds Street - can move forward. Private landowner Alonzo ``Bruz'' Boardman and William S. Morris III (founder of the Morris Museum of Art and chairman of Morris Communications Corp., parent company of The Augusta Chronicle) are negotiating a land-swap deal.
``We encourage property owners on the north side to complete the transfer. . . . we won't proceed until then,'' City Administrator Randy Oliver said.
Reach Jennifer Bishop at (706) 823-3217.
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