Columbia City Takes Action on Busted Plug Fire Hydrant

News Summary

Columbia city officials address community concerns regarding the future of the beloved 40-foot Busted Plug fire hydrant sculpture. After its removal in 2023, the sculpture is currently in safe storage while potential future locations are being considered as part of a redevelopment plan for the Congaree River area. The artist Blue Sky has expressed frustration over the handling of this iconic piece of art. Residents remain hopeful for its return and are eager to support the efforts to restore this symbol of Columbia’s creativity.

Columbia City Takes Action on the Beloved “Busted Plug” Fire Hydrant

Community Urged to Stay Positive about Sculpture’s Future

The city of Columbia has officially responded to the concerns and discussions swirling around the popular *“Busted Plug”* fire hydrant sculpture, a towering 40-foot masterpiece that has been a beloved beacon in downtown Columbia for over two decades. Recently, *questions regarding its storage and future installation* became a hot topic after the sculpture was removed in 2023 due to changes in property ownership.

For those unfamiliar, the *Busted Plug* has been a crucial part of Columbia’s creative landscape for years, originally commissioned for AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and designed to serve as a functional fire hydrant. In addition to its utility, it’s an eye-catching piece of art that has drawn smiles and photos from both locals and tourists alike.

What’s Happening Now?

As part of the city’s statement addressing the public’s worries about the sculpture’s current location, officials clarified that the piece, weighing in at almost *700,000 pounds*, is safely stored behind a locked gate in an open field. Though the sculpture is outside, city officials assured residents that it is being cared for and that they are actively seeking a *new home* for it.

Despite some speculation from community members and organizations about *potential damage* during its outdoor storage, officials expressed confidence that the sculpture can withstand these conditions. They noted that it was originally designed for outdoor display, so there shouldn’t be any immediate concerns regarding its current temporary home.

The Road Ahead

While the exact timeline for reinstalling the *Busted Plug* remains unclear, Columbia’s city spokesperson mentioned a few possible waterfront spots as future locations. These potential sites are part of a grand *redevelopment plan for the Congaree River area*, which aims to enhance the city’s beautiful landscape and improve the community’s overall experience.

Interestingly, former owner of the sculpture, artist Blue Sky, has voiced concerns regarding the city’s handling of this much-loved piece of art. He has pointed out that the original location and the sculpture’s significance seem to have been undervalued during discussions for its future. Blue Sky pointed out that many *offers from private properties* to host the sculpture have been turned down by the city, leaving both the artist and community members frustrated.

Community Impact

The removal of the *Busted Plug* has clearly created a mix of emotions among the residents of Columbia. Many people are hopeful for its return, as the sculpture holds a special place in their hearts. Blue Sky’s criticisms of the city’s communication highlight the importance of fostering community dialogue on such iconic pieces of public art. Residents are eagerly anticipating updates regarding its relocation and are keen to support efforts to restore the *Busted Plug* to its rightful place in society.

As renovations and plans for the *Congaree River area* unfold, the excitement and anxiety surrounding the future of the Busted Plug fire hydrant firmly place it at the forefront of Columbia’s artistic dialogue.

It’s important for the community to stay engaged during this transitional phase and to urge the city to consider those offers of housing the beloved hydrant—because what could be more fitting than bringing this *colorful, quirky art piece* back into the vibrant, urban mix for all to see? The Busted Plug is more than just an art piece; it’s a *symbol of Columbia’s creativity and spirit*.

As citizens eagerly await the city’s next steps, one thing is clear: Columbia loves its *Busted Plug*, and the anticipation for its return only further exemplifies the *neighborhood pride* and love for local art. With concerted effort from all parties involved, hopefully, this conversation will lead to a *bright and shining* future for this iconic installation.

Stay tuned for updates!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

The Disappearance of Columbia’s Iconic ‘Busted Plug’ Fire Hydrant

Additional Resources

• The State: Columbia Takes Action on Busted Plug
• Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Busted Plug Sculpture
• Google Search: Busted Plug fire hydrant Columbia
• Columbia Business Report: Iconic Busted Plug Goodbye
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Art
• WACH: Busted Plug Sculpture Moves to Storage
• Google News: Busted Plug Columbia

Author: HERE Lexington