AUGUSTA, Ga. – Construction in downtown Augusta is ramping up, especially on Broad Street, which is affecting local businesses. Crews are hard at work, even in the heat, as they prepare to take on 6th and 5th streets later this month. The project is expected to wrap up by December 2026.
However, the upcoming World Cup might offer some much-needed relief to businesses dealing with the construction disruption.
World Cup Sparks Excitement Downtown
Fans of soccer gathered in downtown Augusta to celebrate a goal scored by the U.S. team during the World Cup, creating a lively atmosphere.
“I’ve loved soccer since I was a kid,” said Sean Brandes, a passionate fan. Together with Dean Meyer, he co-founded Augusta’s Premier League Supporters Club. “We’re here to support the sport we cherish,” Meyer added.
David Jones was also enjoying the World Cup festivities at the same spot. Jones, a coach for the U.S. Men’s Senior National Team, recently returned from leading the national over-40 team to a third-place finish in the Senior World Cup.
Local Bar Builds Soccer Community
On Broad Street, Shawn Moseley opened Emil’s with the goal of nurturing the city’s small yet enthusiastic soccer community.
“Every day, I wear a Liverpool shirt at the bar, and someone always notices,” Moseley mentioned. “Whenever we have a match, it’s like magic – people connect.”
He believes that the community is what makes Emil’s special, and he hopes it grows as soccer gains popularity in the U.S. “You find others who share the same passion, and before you know it, you have a whole group signed up for updates from a little bar in downtown Augusta,” he said.
As the World Cup returns to America, Emil’s has become a welcoming spot for soccer fans from all over the area.
