City of Augusta Honored for Hurricane Helene Response at Destination Augusta Annual State of Tourism

City of Augusta Honored for Hurricane Helene Response at Destination Augusta Annual State of Tourism Event

At the annual State of Tourism event hosted by Destination Augusta, the City of Augusta was recognized for our response during Hurricane Helene and received the "Spirit of Community" award for our ongoing Hurricane Helene relief and recovery efforts. Being recognized for our collective resilience reaffirms our commitment to moving forward together, as one community. Our city's dedicated team members played an essential role in safeguarding our neighbors and supporting residents. We are proud to serve and grateful for the spirit of unity that defines us.

City Administrator, Tameka Allen and Mayor's Chief of Staff, Jasmine Sims accepted the award on behalf of the city from Destination Augusta Executive Director, Bennish Brown. Mrs. Allen thanked Destination Augusta and expressed gratitude to the first responders, volunteers, and city employees who worked tirelessly during the storm. "This recognition reflects the spirit of unity and compassion that defines Augusta. In times of crisis, our community steps up," Allen states.

Some of the highlights shared at yesterday's event, acknowledges some of the past year's incredible milestones. They include:

- The fifth anniversary of Augusta & Co

- Generated $854M in visitor spending

- The opening of the newly renovated Bell Auditorium

- Groundbreaking of the new James Brown Arena

- Upcoming groundbreaking of an Urban Outdoor Adventure Center

- $27.6M economic impact in sports tourism, with 11,950 athletes visiting our city Augusta Sports Council