The Augusta Canal has been a significant factor in the growth of Augusta’s industrial base and has long been recognized as a landmark in Georgia history. Today, much of the Canal is a visual and health liability from Twelfth Street east to the Gordon Highway, not only to local citizens, but to visitors and tourists as well. What once added impetus to Augusta’s growth as an industrial center has long since been overshadowed by the emergence of modern forms of transportation and energy sources. As a result, the second and third levels of the Canal have badly deteriorated.
The purpose of this study is to investigate and recomm3nd the best methods of realizing the potential of the historic and economic aspects of the Canal. Central to this potential is the attraction to water itself. Water has a special attraction for all ages and kinds of people. The extent to which varied uses are placed on or beside the Canal could attract residents and tourists alike to those uses. The intent of this would be to enhance and highlight the historic nature of the Canal and the adjacent areas to act as a catalyst for private investment in, and redevelopment of, a portion of the central City. The combination of this attraction of water with the historical interests in and around Augusta, with proper management and controls can create a strong economic potential for the Augusta Canal.
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