West Columbia’s Riverwalk Faces Challenges After Flooding
West Columbia, S.C., has been facing a tough time lately, especially for those who cherish spending their days at the Riverwalk. The park, a beloved spot for residents and visitors alike, is currently closed due to serious flooding caused by rising water levels after the recent storm named Helene. With the Congaree River overflowing, the water peaked at just over 30 feet on Monday, leading to extensive damage in the area.
Mayor Addresses Community Concerns
In light of the situation, Mayor Tem Miles reached out to the public to communicate the challenges ahead. “I know folks are eager to get back out because it’s such a valuable asset,” he shared, expressing understanding for people’s excitement but cautioned that “it’s just not safe” right now. The conditions have made it clear that we need some time to ensure everything is back in order.
Thankfully, the water levels are beginning to recede, revealing the Riverwalk once more. However, the aftermath of the flooding presents a frustrating list of problems. “We are expecting some significant damage,” he noted, stating that it’s hard to pin down the exact extent of the destruction at this time. Inspections need to be completed on the wooden bridges, and until that is done, the park will remain closed.
Getting the Cleanup Underway
As of Thursday, the first steps toward recovery have begun, focusing on cleaning up all the mud that has settled in. Crews are out there power-washing away the mess left behind on the amphitheater and the walking trails to make them accessible once more.
However, the cleanup is just the beginning. Once the area is cleaned up, a thorough assessment will follow to determine what repairs are needed. As Miles explained, “If you go beyond where we are that’s already been cleaned, it’s coated in mud, it’s slick, there’s debris everywhere.” The state of the Riverwalk is unsafe, with leaning light poles, damaged signs, and benches that need replacing, alongside water that still lingers beneath some of the raised pathways.
Seeking Assistance for Recovery
In the wake of such extensive damage, the city is planning to reach out for federal and state assistance to help with the costs associated with repairs. Mayor Miles shared a hopeful yet cautious outlook. “We are always optimistic and hopeful that it’s not going to take a long time, but we have had periods after different flooding events where sections were closed down for a period of time.” The reality is, the road to recovery can often be a lengthy process.
Community Engagement and Safety Measures
During this challenging period, the city is urging everyone to respect the no-trespassing signs and stay off the Riverwalk until it is declared safe once again. They appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation while work is ongoing.
The Riverwalk has always been more than just a park; it’s a vital part of West Columbia’s community fabric. Whether it’s for jogging, spending time with friends and family, or enjoying nature, the Riverwalk has been a popular go-to spot. While the current situation is a setback, the city is committed to restoring the area to its former glory.
As updates continue to roll in, residents are encouraged to stay tuned and support the cleanup efforts. Together, West Columbia can recover from this flooding and once again enjoy the beautiful trails and views that the Riverwalk offers.
