Groundbreaking held for much needed parking deck on Health Sciences Campus

Augusta University has broken ground on a new parking deck to help alleviate many parking concerns around the Health Sciences Campus. The new deck will be located in the current Lot 1 location, adjacent to Elm Hall, and will feature 1,350 spaces, including a number of them equipped with electric vehicle charging stations. Overall, this is a 60% increase in parking capacity.

Six men pose with shovels in hand at a groundbreaking ceremony. — Augusta University hosts a groundbreaking ceremony for the new parking deck on the Health Sciences Campus. [Michael Holahan/Augusta University]

A man speaks at a podium at a groundbreaking event. — Augusta University hosts a groundbreaking ceremony for the new parking deck on the Health Sciences Campus. [Michael Holahan/Augusta University]

AU President Brooks A. Keel, PhD, and other university officials, as well as local and state representatives, were on hand for the groundbreaking ceremony. The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025.

“We are excited to take this next step in executing the university’s master plan because this celebration is about more than just erecting a new building, it’s a sign of our growth and a reflection of the commitment that Augusta University is making to enhance not only the student experience, but also the daily work experiences of our faculty and staff who support our students every day,” Keel said.

Rending of what a new parking deck will look like — An artist rendering of a new parking garage to be constructed on the AU Health Sciences Campus.

Dale Hartenburg, assistant vice president of campus services and chief auxiliary officer, said there are currently many students having to park outside the Health Sciences Campus footprint. This deck will bring most of the students, faculty and staff inside the perimeter of the Health Sciences Campus.

“We know there are days where you’re just running behind and looking for a place to park. This will make it easy and convenient for everyone; you don’t have to worry about where you’re going to park,” said Hartenburg.

The parking deck has been part of Augusta University’s master plan, and site preparation got underway once classes finished in December.

“In February they will start to install the foundation piers, and then, in June, they will start to bring in the 750 precast concrete pieces to assemble the parking deck. It will take about six months to assemble, and we’re looking to open the facility to the university in the spring of 2025,” Hartenburg said.