New Infrastructure Project Creates Commercial Real Estate Opportunities in Augusta

Atlas Real Estate Advisors  /   July 21, 2026

Augusta’s commercial real estate market is poised for significant growth following voter approval of SPLOST 9, a $375 million infrastructure and capital improvement package that will help unlock new development opportunities across Richmond County.

The referendum passed with nearly 60% voter support and will take effect in Fall 2026. Among the most impactful projects for developers, investors, and business owners is a major infrastructure initiative that will expand sanitary sewer service deeper into South Augusta, opening previously underserved areas for commercial, industrial, and residential development.

$22 Million Investment 

The Augusta Economic Development Authority (AEDA) secured $22 million in SPLOST 9 funding to extend sanitary sewer infrastructure into the southern portion of Richmond County. The project is expected to remove one of the key barriers to development in the area and create new opportunities for commercial real estate investment.

According to AEDA President Cal Wray, the funding allows the authority to begin planning, engineering, and designing the sewer extension project that will support future growth.

Unlike many large public infrastructure projects, this initiative will be funded with cash rather than debt financing, allowing construction and planning efforts to move forward without additional bonding requirements.

Why Infrastructure Matters 

Infrastructure improvements often serve as the catalyst for economic development. Access to public sewer service is a critical requirement for many commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects.

For developers evaluating commercial land in Augusta, the sewer expansion could significantly increase the amount of developable property in South Augusta. Improved utility access may attract:

• Industrial and manufacturing facilities
• Distribution and logistics centers
• Commercial retail developments
• Mixed-use projects
• Multifamily residential communities
• Business parks and office developments

As Augusta continues to attract new employers and investment, infrastructure projects like this help position South Augusta as a future growth corridor within the region.

Specific SPLOST 9 Projects 

In addition to the sewer expansion project, SPLOST 9 includes funding for several major community assets that could further strengthen Augusta’s economic development efforts:

• Expansion of the Augusta Convention Center
• Renovations to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center
• Improvements to Riverwalk Augusta
• Reconstruction of the Augusta Boathouse

These investments are expected to enhance quality of life, support tourism, and improve the city’s ability to attract business and events.

Voters Also Approve FLOST 

Augusta voters also approved a new Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) by a margin exceeding 70%. The 0.5% sales tax is designed to help reduce property tax burdens for local property owners. Lower property tax pressure can be a positive factor for both commercial property owners and prospective investors evaluating opportunities in the Augusta market.

What This Means for Augusta Commercial Real Estate

The approval of SPLOST 9 represents more than just infrastructure spending—it signals long-term confidence in Augusta’s growth trajectory. For commercial real estate investors, developers, and business owners, the South Augusta sewer expansion could create some of the region’s most compelling development opportunities over the next decade.

As planning and engineering efforts begin, stakeholders in the Augusta commercial real estate market should closely monitor new land availability, zoning activity, and infrastructure timelines in South Augusta. Areas that were previously difficult to develop may soon become prime locations for industrial, commercial, and mixed-use projects.

For investors seeking emerging growth opportunities in the Augusta, Georgia commercial real estate market, South Augusta is becoming a region to watch.