Supporters of a proposed new canal in Augusta say it would draw tourists and tax dollars to eastern Georgia. The proposed Ellis Street Canal would potentially be a year-round attraction. The two-mile canal would be constructed from waters in the larger Augusta Canal, and tourists could take boat rides or go rafting.
Supporters say it would transform an area of downtown plagued with vacant lots and buildings into an attraction with shops, restaurants, condominiums and gardens. The total cost for the project is estimated at around $75 million. A county commissioner spearheading the plan has held public meetings in Augusta in recent days. He hopes to bring it before the Augusta-Richmond County commission by December.
But there's dissent. Plans to build a new judicial center could jeopardize efforts to get funding.
Supporters say it would transform an area of downtown plagued with vacant lots and buildings into an attraction with shops, restaurants, condominiums and gardens. The total cost for the project is estimated at around $75 million. A county commissioner spearheading the plan has held public meetings in Augusta in recent days. He hopes to bring it before the Augusta-Richmond County commission by December.
But there's dissent. Plans to build a new judicial center could jeopardize efforts to get funding.
