Broad Street Improvement Project Q&A with Design Team

A New Rhythm for Downtown: What’s on the Horizon for Broad Street and the James Brown Linear Park

The transformation of Broad Street is well underway, and we are thrilled to share a closer look at the vibrant future being built right now in the heart of Augusta. While the orange cones are a temporary fixture, the final result will be a permanent transformation of Augusta’s historic heart.

To give you an inside look at the “why” behind the work, we sat down with the project’s lead designers to discuss the inspiration and intentionality driving this revitalization. The following Q&A captures the highlights of our conversation, explaining the vision for how the new Broad Street is being crafted to serve as Augusta’s premier cultural and economic centerpiece for generations to come.

What is the overall vision for the Broad Street Improvement Project?

We are creating a vibrant, world-class destination that celebrates Augusta’s soul. This isn’t just a road project; it is a catalyst designed to bring a fresh energy downtown where people will want to linger, explore, and fall in love with Broad Street all over again.

How will the James Brown Linear Park serve as the centerpiece of this transformation?

Imagine a park that breathes with music. We have designed a spectacular central plaza featuring interactive water and fog jets that “dance” in sync with James Brown’s greatest hits and color-changing lights.

In a beautiful tribute to the “man of the people,” the James Brown sculpture is returning on a stunning new stage. Following feedback from the Brown family, the stage includes a ramp to ensure the sculpture is accessible to everyone.

What specific design details highlight the musical theme of the park?

The artistry is everywhere. You will walk under shade structures featuring iconic album covers and “I Feel Good” sheet music that casts musical shadows on the ground. The very pavement beneath your feet tells a story, with “sound wave” patterns and an engraved timeline of 20 legendary hits. Even the benches are shaped like guitar picks, and the planters are modeled after Grammy Award bases, engraved with the awards won by James Brown.

How does the streetscape design improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians?

We are introducing state-of-the-art bicycle lanes. These are elevated 6” to be flush with the top adjacent pedestrian use areas and tucked safely behind the parking rows, meaning cyclists are protected from moving traffic. Additionally, by narrowing the lanes to a sleek 11 feet, we are naturally calming traffic, making the entire corridor feel much safer and more relaxed for families and pedestrians.

In what ways will the new layout benefit local business owners?

Businesses are getting a massive boost in usable space. We are opening up 13 to 20 feet of wide, beautiful sidewalk area, which is advantageous for restaurants wanting to expand their outdoor dining.

We are also planting a lush new tree canopy. This will create a cool, shaded oasis that makes shopping and dining on Broad Street a comfortable, all-day experience even in the heat of summer.

What upgrades are being made to lighting and safety?

The design includes both roadway lighting and dedicated pedestrian lighting. Tall roadway lights will be located in the median, while pedestrian-scale lights will be installed along the outside borders to illuminate the bicycle tracks and sidewalks. The lighting and trees are placed to create a consistent rhythm along the streetscape, improving visibility and aesthetics at night.

How will the new landscaping compare to the previous trees on Broad Street?

We have carefully selected urban tree species that are built to thrive, with the landscaping designed to provide a thick, cooling canopy that will grow more beautiful with every passing year.

The Broad Street Improvement Project is about more than just infrastructure, it’s about investing in the heart of Augusta. By combining the legendary legacy of James Brown with modern, safe, and accessible spaces, we are building a downtown that works for everyone. We look forward to seeing you downtown to experience this transformation firsthand. Thank you for being part of this journey as we build a better Broad Street together.