It sounds like things are coming together quickly on the new Augusta GreenJackets ballpark project, with the future home of the Low-A Sally League team set to open next season — though it will be surrounded by a construction zone.
The ballpark will open for the 2018 season, according to the developer. That’s covers all aspects of the ballpark: upper- and lower-level restaurants, an outdoor seating area and the home-run porch in right field. In addition, the ballpark’s office space and clubhouses are on schedule to open at the beginning of the season.
However, the GreenJackets fans who make it to an April or May game will probably be fighting construction, as the rest of the mixed-use development and a parking ramp won’t be ready on Opening Day. That includes an adjoining Crowne Plaza hotel, a parking deck and nearby residences. Also opening later in 2018: a townhome/retail development. However, it was reported to city officials that two-thirds of the retail development has been leased. From the Augusta Chronicle:
The city’s Owner’s Representative, James Dean, told City Council members that the developer’s “primary focus” right now was to get the Center Street corridor between the stadium and hotel – “the hottest center for retail” – filled with restaurants and other elements that complement the ballpark experience in time for opening day.
He characterized ongoing retail efforts in terms of “pending contracts that are in negotiation.” The council discussed the specifics in an executive session Monday night, but did not make any announcements after it ended. Some members said they expected to be able to say more soon.
The stadium is set to open in April, a deadline Dean said the developer was “still on track” to make.
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