Warner Robins mayor outlines transit, park and downtown plans in State of the City

Mayor LaRhonda Patrick discussed staffing improvements, traffic concerns and future development during her State of the City address.

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Warner Robins Mayor LaRhonda Patrick delivered the city’s State of the City address Wednesday at the Museum of Aviation, outlining progress since taking office and plans for future development.

Patrick says when she came into office in 2022, she faced several challenges that have now been improved, such as underpaid employees, understaffed police and fire departments and outdated software.

She says one issue to expect in the future is traffic and that the city is looking to create an “on demand” transit service.

“It’s almost like an Uber, but it’s a shuttle, so we’re working on some ideas for that, to bring it here to Warner Robins,” she said. “Other counties surrounding Houston County has an option for transit, and we don’t, and now is the time to change that.”

She says there will also be improvements to Perkins Park outside of City Hall.

“Walking pads, water pads, a small amphitheater, a renovated civic center, a new activity center, all these possibilities right there, right next to City Hall at Perkins Park,” she said.

Mayor Patrick says phase development will continue for downtown residential and commercial areas between Commercial Circle and Armed Forces Blvd.

“So we’re going to be developing concepts on what living downtown could look like,” she said. “We’re going to be developing concepts of what kind of commercial spaces can come there as we continue to renovate, grow and build on the vision for a better downtown network.”

Another project Patrick says she has long wanted is a youth council for children and young adults.

“We also have councils,” she said. “Youth council is something we were talking about since I’ve been in office. And we’re ready to pull the trigger and do a youth council so that our youth can help shape the city they want to see. We’re going to empower these future leaders of our community and also our county.”

Patrick adds there will also be more community meetings and council meetings for leaders to hear from residents about changes they would like to see.