News 12 at 6 o'clock, March 11, 2010

AUGUSTA---Developers of a major hotel chain are laying out plans for growth in downtown Augusta. New road construction will direct you right into the thick of the new developments.

Luxury apartments, new infrastructure, and a major hotel chain are all coming to downtown Augusta.

"This is one of the most fantastic projects to ever roll out for downtown," said downtown business owner David Hutchison.

David is one of more 170 downtown business owners who are all vying for customers.

"The more people that come down," said David. "The more people that are likely to come to my store and spend a little money with me."

As an economic fog lifts the city skyline is set to change with a new $25 million Hyatt Place hotel.

"Yes," said hotel developer Cortland Dusseau. "We are going to keep working on it until it gets done."

"They know that Augusta is getting ready to take off," said David.

This comes as a multi-million dollar project is underway to funnel people off of River Watch Parkway onto a flyover into downtown Augusta. The Downtown Development Authority approved $14,500 in SPLOST money for way-finding and welcoming signs. The new route will take you to Broad Street and bypass the train tracks.

"It is kinda changing our front door," said Barry White with the convention and visitor's bureau. "It's a tourism push, but it is also a lifestyle push that is going to be great for residents and great for visitors alike."

The Emporium will bring 9 new luxury apartments, the Hyatt Place plans call for a six story mixed-use complex, and the old Regency Hotel along Broad and 4th Street is set to become a Holiday Inn.

"You can get projects done in this economy," said Margaret Woodard with the DDA.

Between hotels and apartments, the DDA is working more than $30 million in new projects.

"It says that downtown Augusta is a great place to live, work, and play," said Margaret. "That's the message."

"Bring it on," said David.

Hyatt Place developers meet with bankers Friday. They plan to begin construction this fall. The St. Sebastian Way road construction is expected to finish mid-summer.