New construction at one of the area's most scenic parks might soon get under way.

The next construction phase for the Augusta Canal Headgates and Savannah Rapids Pavilion park includes picnic shelters, another parking lot, resurfacing of the existing parking lot, a road looping through the lots, a bike path and infrastructure for a future restroom facility, said Chip Mobley, Columbia County facility services project manager.

"We're ready to bid," Mr. Mobley said. "All we're waiting on is our notice for approval to bid from (the Georgia Department of Transportation). We think that's coming momentarily."

Work should start in spring or summer, Mr. Mobley said.

The project was funded with a $500,000 Transportation Enhancement Grant from the state DOT and $700,000 in 1-cent sales tax money.

In recent years, Columbia County and the Augusta Canal Authority have renovated the headgates, Gatekeeper's Cottage, a dance pavilion and a barbecue pit.

The Canal Authority also funded the construction of a pedestrian bridge and a canoe/kayak dock.

Last year, Columbia County completed a $600,000 renovation of the Savannah Rapids Pavilion.

"I think it's one of the best views in Augusta, particularly when you've got water running over the dam," said Dayton Sherrouse, the executive director of the Augusta Canal Authority.

Augusta officials recently drained the canal to install a water pipe beneath it and added new turbines to pump water from the Savannah River to the water-treatment plant behind Daniel Village while the canal was drained, Mr. Sherrouse said.

Water should start flowing back into the canal Thursday, he said.

"Still, there's a lot more work to be done, particularly by Columbia County," Mr. Sherrouse said.

A second construction phase, costing $2.4 million, is planned for the park using 2011-16 penny sales tax dollars.

Mr. Mobley said that phase will include restrooms, a concession area, a canoe livery and a bike-rental facility. Also, hillside parking will be removed in favor of landscaped green space.

"That will be the nicest part of the whole thing," he said. "It'll open up this park for everybody."