Riverfront community in North Augusta shows off amenities to visitors

Ken and Sylvia Smith were curious.

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"We wanted to see these houses and get a feel for the development," said Mr. Smith, who toured some of the newly constructed homes during River Days at Hammond's Ferry on Saturday.

"There are some really fine homes," he said.

About 40 homes are still under construction, and within a few weeks that number will double, said N. Turner Simkins, the project manager.

Construction began on the west end of the development and will continue on the eastern portion after existing roads are extended next year, he said.

The western end of the development on the Savannah River will feature single-family homes and a limited number of retail spaces. Most of the mixed-use structures and townhouses will be in the development's eastern section.

Home tours were a major part of River Days, but there were other activities such as bicycle and kayak demonstrations, refreshments and giveaways. There also was pumpkin decorating and games for the children.

Representatives from South Carolina Tree Climbers helped children get in safety gear so they could climb a tree near the river and ring a bell.

Russell Smith, whose 11-year-old son, Bryson, climbed the tree, said he liked the approach builders were taking in Hammond's Ferry.

"It's pretty neat as far as the development," he said. "It has a small-town concept."

That community feeling is something Mr. Simkins said he hoped people would experience during River Days.

"We hope this is the beginning of a tradition," he said. "An integral part of a community is its traditions and cultural events."

Reach Charmain Z. Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.