07 Apr Choice Neighborhoods Allen Homes Project Celebration | April 22, 2026
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Earth Day Celebration for the Allen Homes Community Garden and Mural Installations
Augusta, GA — Community leaders, residents, and partners are invited to celebrate a meaningful milestone in neighborhood revitalization. On Wednesday, April 22, 2026 a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Choice Neighborhoods Allen Homes Project will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Allen Homes neighborhood located at 526 Hines St. Augusta, GA. Held in conjunction with Earth Day, the event will highlight both the physical transformation and the community-driven investment and collaboration of this project.
The City of Augusta Housing & Community Development and the Augusta Housing Authority, who were awarded a HUD Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant to focus on strengthening communities such as Allen Homes by improving access to resources, enhancing shared spaces, and supporting resident-driven priorities.
A central feature of the project is the new Allen Homes Community Garden, developed in partnership with Black Farm Street and Augusta Locally Grown. The garden includes raised beds, irrigation infrastructure, seating areas, and gathering spaces designed to support food access, education, and community connection. Additional improvements by HCD and AHA, include the revitalization of the neighborhood basketball court and activation of outdoor spaces for residents and families.
Public art has played a key role in the transformation. The Greater Augusta Arts Council coordinated the installation of two original murals created by local artists Destinee Love and Emily Bender. The murals were inspired directly by resident input. Designs were juried by the Public Art Advisory Panel.
The April 22nd celebration will include remarks from city officials and project partners, reflections neighborhood leaders, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting for both the gardens and murals. Attendees will also enjoy interactive planting stations, along with opportunities to participate in spring planting and learn about upcoming workshops. Following the celebration, continued programming will include community bench painting with Jessye Norman School of the Arts and garden workshops hosted by Augusta Locally Grown
“This project represents more than physical improvements,” said Lashawndra Robinson, Executive Director of Black Farm Street Inc. “It is about creating spaces that support people, strengthen community, and provide opportunities for growth, connection, and long-term impact.”
