Exciting Upgrades Coming to Columbia’s Busy Downtown Intersection!
COLUMBIA, S.C. — If you stroll through downtown Columbia, you might have noticed some construction buzzing around the Taylor Street intersection, right where Allen University and Benedict College come together. Well, we have some good news! Officials say that this extensive remodeling project is set for completion by early January, just in time for the New Year!
Making Things Safer and Fancier
The main goal of this upgrade? To enhance pedestrian safety and give the area a much-needed facelift. As Columbia’s Assistant City Manager, Clint Shealy, noted, “It’s really going to beautify the entryway into both Benedict and Allen University and that whole corridor along Harden Street.” And we couldn’t agree more! It’s always wonderful to see initiatives that add a touch of beauty to our community while keeping people safe.
What’s New?
So, what exactly is happening at this busy intersection? Almost everything! From freshly paved sidewalks to new crosswalks and shortened pedestrian crossings, the focus is on making it easier and safer for folks to get around. For instance, they’re introducing something called “bump outs.” No, it’s not a trendy dance move; these bump outs help pedestrians by reducing the distance they have to walk across the street, which means they’re crossing fewer lanes of traffic. Sounds like a win-win to us!
Partnering for Progress
This project isn’t just a solo effort. It’s a fantastic collaboration involving the South Carolina Department of Transportation, the City of Columbia, Allen University, and Benedict College. And here’s the kicker: this project didn’t cost city taxpayers a dime! Instead, it was funded through federal Local Public Agency dollars, along with the support of the Richland County Transportation Committee.
Clint Shealy shared more on the funding, saying, “We also partnered with our county transportation committee, the Richland County CTC, to get additional funding, about $1.6 million worth of improvements, no city tax dollars directly, all funded through gas tax and through federal dollars.” This just goes to show how teamwork can make the dream work!
What’s Next?
Before the project is wrapped up, crews will be putting the finishing touches on restriping and additional paving in the upcoming weeks. Residents can also look forward to improvements at the nearby Taylor and Pine Street intersection, as well as the Blanding and Harden Street intersection. Talk about a glow-up for the entire area!
The Countdown to Completion
With the holidays approaching, city officials expect that all the hard work will be finished shortly after the season’s festivities. So, whether you’re heading to campus, off to work, or just enjoying a day out in Columbia, you’ll soon be able to navigate this key intersection with more ease and safety.
So, as we close out this year, let’s look forward to a bright and beautiful new intersection in downtown Columbia, inviting both residents and visitors to walk around with renewed excitement and confidence!
