A special election on Nov. 2 will impact the Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority’s ability to construct the new James Brown Arena. Resident of Richmond County have until Monday, Oct. 4 to register to vote on the item.
Voters are being asked to approve a bond referendum that will raise up to $240 million for the project. The new arena has a projected $228 million cost and could house up to 10,000 people.
MORE: New James Brown Arena Beginning to Take Shape
There are also general municipal elections in the cities of Blythe and Hephzibah. People who want to vote in those elections must also register by Oct. 4.
Residents can register or check current registration status on Georgia’s My Voter Page or contact the Board of Elections office at 706-821-2340 for more information.
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Absentee ballots may also be requested through the state website or at the Richmond County Board of Elections website. Requests can also be submitted to the local office by mail, email or fax. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Friday, Oct. 22. The ballots must be returned to the office by 7 p.m. on election day.
Advance voting for the special election will begin on Tuesday, Oct. 12.
In March, Richmond County voters approved a special local-option sales tax which included $25 million for the entertainment complex.
MORE: Coliseum Authority Taking Final Steps on the Bond Referendum
In addition to a new JBA, the plan will include a covered walkway to connect the space to the Bell Auditorium. A few upgrades are also planned for the Bell, which was constructed in 1940.
The Augusta Futurity, scheduled for January 2022, could be the last major event in the old arena.
To view the plan and the artist’s rendering, visit https://newjamesbrownarena.com/
Dana Lynn McIntyre is a Staff Reporter with The Augusta Press. You can reach her at dana@theaugustapress.com.
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