Exciting Changes at Bon Air Apartments in Augusta, GA
Augusta, Georgia, is buzzing with excitement as the Bon Air Apartments, once known for their unbearable living conditions, are on the road to recovery. This follows a much-needed investigation and a tour from Congressman Rick Allen, who has been actively pushing for improvements at this historic landmark.
A Place from the Past
For years, residents have been frustrated with the deteriorating conditions at Bon Air Apartments, which used to be a glamorous resort destination. Tragically, what was once a beautiful getaway turned into a last-resort housing option for many seniors. The I-TEAM first highlighted the abysmal situations tenants faced eight years ago, from extreme heat to safety hazards.
“If you walk in, sweat pours off of you. If you lay down, you get drenched in the bed,” recalled one tenant, reflecting the tough conditions that many endured. Such comments shocked local leaders like Augusta Commissioner Catherine Smith-McKnight, who expressed disbelief at what she saw during a previous visit.
Changes Are Happening
Now, good news is on the horizon! Just last week, Congressman Rick Allen toured the grounds of Bon Air Apartments, and he came away feeling optimistic. There are significant renovations underway, with phases of improvements already in progress.
“I’ll tell you, I’m impressed,” Allen stated after his visit. The Congressman reported that more than 200 units are close to completion, with about 98% of the interior renovations finished. From the dreary past, the apartments are now starting to reflect beauty and livability.
A Plan for the Future
This past year marked the beginning of Phase One renovations, which focus on interior upgrades. In about a month, these renovations will wrap up, allowing residents to move into homes that offer comfort and safety. Phase Two, which will kick off shortly thereafter, is set to make some exciting exterior enhancements, including new windows and features like computer rooms and a library.
These changes are essential, especially considering the serious violations that surfaced just two years ago. Inspections revealed a staggering 20 code and 19 fire violations. Prior to this renovation effort, lives were considerably at stake, and the community rallied for change.
Bringing Attention to Tenants’ Needs
Congressman Allen didn’t just stop at a tour; he took action. He met with tenants, many of whom had never had the opportunity to express their concerns to anyone in authority. “I had a meeting with the tenants, and they said that no one had ever met with them. I couldn’t believe it,” he said. This meeting highlighted a clear communication gap that has finally started to close.
He reached out to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), urging them to investigate and play an active role in rectifying the issues at Bon Air. His persistence paid off when he saw changes beginning to take shape.
A Community Effort
The journey hasn’t been easy, but those who live in Bon Air can finally see the fruits of a long-fought battle for better living conditions. “What we attempted to do was to get HUD’s attention, and we did,” Allen noted. His continued advocacy for the tenants has rallied local, state, and even federal support for these improvements.
In this fight for justice and comfort, Augusta is witnessing the transformation of Bon Air Apartments. The story of this historic landmark continues to evolve, with each renovation bringing hope for a brighter future. With only a few weeks left until the end of Phase One, tenants are now looking forward to moving into a place they can truly call home.
