Riverfront Park in Columbia to Close for Construction

News Summary

Columbia residents should prepare for the temporary closure of portions of Riverfront Park for construction related to the canal recovery project. The closures will be in two phases: March 3-7 and March 10-14. Visitors will still have access during weekends and after 5:30 p.m. on weekdays. Meanwhile, a new waterfront park is also in development, aiming to enhance the city’s recreational spaces.

Columbia, S.C. Gears Up for Park Closures Due to Construction!

Hey, Columbia residents! Big news coming your way! Portions of the beloved Riverfront Park will be temporarily closed for construction as the city rolls up its sleeves for an exciting canal recovery project. Make sure you mark your calendars because these closures will happen in two phases: the first from March 3 to March 7, and the second from March 10 to March 14. We want you to stay safe while this construction is underway, so it’s important to know what’s happening!

So, What’s Got the Park in a Tizzy?

The park’s closures are all about keeping you, your families, and friends safe while important work is accomplished to enhance Columbia’s water supply. The construction involves tree removal along the canal embankment as part of the ambitious Resilient Water Supply project. This project is quite a big deal because it includes the construction of a new intake in the Broad River, with the goal of providing an impressive 80 million gallons of water daily. That’s a lot of hydration for our community!

When Can You Enjoy the Park?

Even though the park is partially closing, don’t fret! It’s not locked up completely. Riverfront Park will remain open on weekends, specifically March 8 and 9. Plus, if you’re itching to get some fresh air after work, you’re in luck! The park will be accessible for visitors after 5:30 p.m. during the week. Also, big shout-out to Riverfront South for keeping restroom facilities open during regular park hours!

Need Some Alternatives? No Problem!

If you find that Riverfront Park isn’t quite what you’re looking for during the closure, why not check out the gorgeous Saluda Riverwalk? Located at 650 Candi Lane, this beautiful alternative is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or just a moment to connect with nature.

Future Parks and Exciting Developments!

While we’re busy with the canal recovery project, the city is also making headway on another exciting venture: a brand new waterfront park, set to be located between Blossom and Gervais streets. This park is designed to utilize Columbia’s three rivers and aims to cover an impressive 80 acres, with the possibility of even expanding an additional 16 acres south of Blossom Street!

This potential park will be jam-packed with incredible features like an amphitheater, serene boardwalks, charming shops, and loads of recreational areas for everyone to enjoy! The history of this project goes way back to the 1990s and has involved contributions from local leaders and the University of South Carolina. It has been a labor of love, and it truly showcases Columbia’s commitment to appreciating its surroundings.

What’s the Scoop on Access and Funding?

The city is currently hard at work on constructing a new road to facilitate access to this upcoming park — an extension of Williams Street. This project is expected to cost around $21 million and is set for completion by 2026. And here’s some good news: the city is seeking designers and developers for the park’s construction. Cost estimates and timelines will be finalized once the qualifications are submitted by the March 14 deadline.

This development plan will not only enhance public access to the river but also protect the local ecosystem. Think floodplain management and preserving our beautiful nature! The project even has some generous fundraising and land donations behind it, including support from the historic Guignard family.

What About Finlay Park?

And just to keep you in the loop, it’s worth mentioning that the redevelopment of Riverfront Park is separate from the ongoing $24 million overhaul of Finlay Park. This effort aims to restore what was once a neglected public space, breathing new life into it for everyone to enjoy.

So there you have it, Columbia! While park closures are necessary for the betterment of our water supply system, exciting things are on the horizon. Get ready for a more beautiful and functional park experience in the future!

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Additional Resources

• WLTX: Columbia Riverfront Park Closure March 2025
• The State: Park Closures Announced
• WACH: Construction to Close Riverfront Park
• ABC Columbia: Stay Safe Near Congaree and Broad River
• Post and Courier: Riverfront Park Column
• Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
• Google Search: Columbia Riverfront Park construction
• Google Scholar: Columbia Riverfront Park construction
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia
• Google News: Columbia Riverfront Park

Author: HERE Lexington