Augusta Cemeteries Reopening In Phases

Those with loved ones at Magnolia, Cedar Grove and Westview cemeteries in Augusta will soon be able to visit their resting places again.

Due to extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene in late September, all three cemeteries had to close due to massive cleanup and safety concerns.

City officials explained that restoration efforts would take some time, since strict guidelines had to be followed before the properties could safely reopen.

State regulations imposed restrictions on the machinery that could be used to ensure that graves remained undisturbed while the restoration work was underway. The debris removal and restoration plans also had to undergo review and approval by historians and preservation experts to protect the cultural significance of the sites.

Starting March 26, the cemeteries will reopen on a limited basis.

Once the cemeteries reopen on a limited basis later this month, a waiver granting permission to enter the property will be required. City officials say to ensure the safety of all visitors, the waiver will have to be signed by everyone when entering.