AUGUSTA, Ga. () – It’s been a big pain with the Broad Street make over project: the loss of street parking for businesses.

“Ensuring adequate parking is a key concern for this downtown project, and I stand with the business community. They are not keen on losing parking spaces,” stated Commissioner Catherine Smith Rice.

City Engineers note that due to updated space size requirements, some parking on Broad Street would inevitably be lost. However, by adjusting the designs and eliminating certain green areas, they have significantly minimized the reduction in parking spots.

“We’ve struck a fair balance, reinstating several hundred standard-sized parking spots. All vehicles, including SUVs and large trucks, will be able to use them,” explained Augusta Traffic Engineer, John Ussery.

The 500 block will be getting additional parking. It’s the home of Luigi’s restaurant.

“I’m somewhat relieved that some parking has been restored, even though it’s not our ideal outcome. We had preferred eliminating the bike lane,” commented Penelope Ballas Stewart.

Business owners voiced their anxiety to the commissioners about the potential effects of the project and are appreciative of the city’s initiative to increase street parking near Broad.

“I believe the additional parking and innovative solutions on nearby streets like Monument, 12^th, Ellis, and Reynolds, will greatly assist,” remarked restaurant owner Brad Usry.

Parking has been an issue downtown for years, and when this project is completed, merchants and city leaders both say a parking management plan will need to be put in place.