Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFitnessNatureNews

Columbia’s Riverfront Park to Undergo Major Improvements

Construction at Columbia's Riverfront Park

News Summary

Columbia, S.C. is set to enhance Riverfront Park with construction from March 3-7 and March 10-14. The project, part of the Resilient Water Supply program, aims to improve water capacity and ecological health. Though portions of the park will close during weekdays, it remains open on weekends and evenings. The city plans a new, expansive waterfront park while preserving natural features and integrating community input.

Exciting Changes Ahead for Columbia’s Riverfront Park!

Columbia, S.C. is gearing up for some major changes at the Riverfront Park, and while it may be a temporary inconvenience, it’s all for an important cause! From March 3 to March 7 and again from March 10 to March 14, portions of the park will be closed to allow for construction on a project that promises to enhance our city’s water supply and ecological health.

What Does It All Mean?

During this time, heavy construction equipment will be on-site as contractors work hard to remove trees from the canal embankment. These efforts are part of the broader Resilient Water Supply project aimed at improving water availability and capacity for our lovely city. As part of this project, Columbia Water is set to build a new intake on the Broad River that will bring in up to 80 million gallons of water per day. That’s a lot of water!

Park Accessibility

Even though the park will see some closures during the weekdays, there’s good news! Riverfront Park will be open during the weekend of March 8 and 9 and will also remain accessible every weekday after 5:30 p.m.. For those who need to use the facilities, restrooms at Riverfront South will still be available during regular park hours. It’s a small silver lining amidst the construction.

Alternative Exploration

If you’re looking for something to do while the park is closed, the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department has a fantastic recommendation! Head on over to the Saluda Riverwalk located at 650 Candi Lane. It’s a wonderful alternative for enjoying the great outdoors and stretching those legs.

What’s on the Horizon?

But that’s not the only exciting news! The city is making strides to develop a brand-new waterfront park that will stretch over 80 acres between Blossom and Gervais streets. They’ve issued a request for qualifications, looking for builders who have experience in creating beautiful waterfront parks. How cool is that?

There’s even talk about possibly adding an extra 16 acres south of Blossom Street. Back in the 90s, local leaders and the University of South Carolina championed a master plan for this area, and it’s finally getting off the ground. This envisioned park is set to include an amphitheater, boardwalks, an ornate fountain, recreational areas, plus spots for shops, restaurants, and apartments! Just think of the fun!

Integrating Nature and History

As plans continue to evolve, there’s a significant emphasis on preserving natural features and incorporating elements of Columbia’s rich history into the park design. The project aims to create greenspaces and trails, with pathways connecting to existing trails in Granby Park and Riverfront Park.

A New Road to the River

A brand new road will also be constructed to enhance riverfront access to the park. This road will connect Williams Street between Blossom and Senate streets. The cost of this road project is expected to be around $21 million, and it’s projected to be completed by 2026.

Engaging the Community

In tandem with these extraordinary park developments, the city is seeking proposals for new residential and commercial ventures along the riverfront. Columbia City Councilman Will Brennan is hopeful that even with challenges from floodplains, new opportunities will arise along the riverbank.

All this excitement has caught the attention of the Congaree Riverkeeper, who advocates for prioritizing both river access and environmental protection as the park project continues to progress. While the timelines for completion are still being hashed out, the future for Columbia’s riverfront looks promising.

In addition, don’t forget that the $24 million renovation of Finlay Park is also on the horizon, anticipated to be wrapped up by fall 2025. With all these exciting changes, Columbia is truly making strides toward a brighter, more beautiful future for everyone to enjoy!