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Columbia’s Road Improvements Enhance Pedestrian Safety

Columbia street with pedestrian enhancements and construction workers.

News Summary

Columbia is undertaking significant road improvement projects with a focus on pedestrian safety and traffic flow. The city has secured $3.5 million for the overhaul of Harden Street, as well as additional funds for upgrades to Devine and Assembly Streets. Projects aim to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians while easing congestion. Enhancements to Main and Gervais Streets are also planned, highlighting the city’s commitment to making travel safer for all. Community engagement will play a crucial role in shaping these initiatives.

Exciting Road Improvements in Columbia to Boost Pedestrian Safety!

Columbia is buzzing with excitement as the city embarks on some major road improvement projects that promise to transform the way residents and visitors navigate the streets, with a keen focus on pedestrian safety and traffic flow. The city has secured a whopping $3.5 million for the much-anticipated makeover of Harden Street. It’s a project that aims to revamp the area significantly, making it safer and more accessible for everyone—especially pedestrians.

Construction is already on the horizon, with plans to wrap up the Harden Street improvements by December 2025. But that’s not all—Devine Street is also in the spotlight, with proposed upgrades that include reducing traffic lanes from four to three, pending an additional $1.5 million in funding. This would help to ease congestion and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Assembly Street: A Dangerous Crossing Gets Attention

Have you ever crossed on Assembly Street? If so, you might agree that it’s been marked as a perilous thoroughfare, notorious for pedestrian accidents. That’s why the city is stepping up with a $16 million project that aims to change the game. The plans include wider sidewalks, upgraded crosswalks, and various other enhancements tailored to protect those on foot.

Mark your calendars—City Council will be casting their votes on the Assembly Street project on April 1, with a state funding request of $3 million still pending. In addition, a separate Assembly Street Railroad Separation project has already snagged $204 million in federal funds. This initiative aims to alleviate traffic bottlenecks caused by railway crossings, which have been a longstanding issue in the area.

Main and Gervais Streets to Get a Facelift

Meanwhile, the hustle and bustle on Main Street is undergoing significant transformation as part of a $23 million project. The goal here is to enhance the aesthetics of the street while better connecting the University of South Carolina with local businesses. Not only will the visual appeal improve, but it will also facilitate easier movement for pedestrians.

As for Gervais Street, which has unfortunately made its way onto the list of the top ten most dangerous corridors in the state due to heavy traffic and accidents, new improvements are set to kick off in 2026. These upgrades include planned signal enhancements and sidewalk improvements to create a safer journey for all travelers.

Reducing Lanes for a Safer Experience

In a bold move, the current five-lane stretch of Main Street, running from the Statehouse to Blossom Street, will be streamlined to just two lanes. This transition not only aims to reduce traffic but also allows for the addition of bike lanes and tree plantings, expected to be completed by Summer 2025. On Harden Street, fewer lanes and plant-lined medians are already being integrated as part of the ongoing Five Points project, further emphasizing the city’s commitment to pedestrian safety.

Community Engagement: Your Voice Matters!

In a proactive approach, the city is holding public meetings to gather feedback on potential improvements for Devine and Gervais Streets. Community input is vital, and there’s a strong focus on what residents think about the plans before they’re set in stone. Moreover, the city is making a concerted effort to monitor and enhance the safety of intersections around the busy Harden and Taylor roads, aiming to create safer conditions for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Columbia is clearly on the right track with these forward-thinking road improvements! With a blend of investments and community engagement, the city is taking significant steps towards creating safer and more pedestrian-friendly spaces. So whether you walk, bike, or drive, Columbia is gearing up for a better, safer travel experience!