Patience, prudence saved bridge

The Augusta Chronicle's recent editorial praise for the $15 million Saint Sebastian Way/Greene Street improvement project, which both spares the historic Butt Memorial Bridge and improves access to downtown, illustrates an interesting point about "unspent" SPLOST funds.

The solution that earned The Chronicle's accolades has been years in the making. This $15 million civic improvement requires $4.5 million in local matching dollars - dollars that were raised through earlier SPLOST collections.

Much discussion, coordination and cooperation between local, state and federal agencies has had to take place to reach the complex solution. All the while, Augusta's $4.5 million SPLOST Phase III and IV matching money for the project have been sitting in the bank.

Would it have been better to spend the earlier SPLOST money on DOT's first proposal: to tear down the historic Butt Memorial and build a basic, utilitarian highway bridge at 15th Street? Not according to many concerned citizens.

The solution that is about to be implemented spares the historic Butt Bridge, and improves access to downtown, the medical complex and the Augusta Canal. It takes into account not only automobile traffic flow, but also the need for improved pedestrian and bicycle access and the aesthetics of the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area landmarks.

As voters consider their support for SPLOST V, many may have concerns about what has been called the "unspent" millions. The Saint Sebastian project is one example of how - when public officials slow down, listen to citizens' concerns and take the time to reconsider - a superior solution is the result.

One might be tempted to say it is money well unspent - at least until the time is right.

Dayton Sherrouse, Augusta

(Editor's note: The writer is executive director of the Augusta Canal Authority.)