News Summary
Columbia’s Lower Saluda River Greenway Project is set to enhance community access to recreational opportunities along a 27-mile trail from Lake Murray Dam to Saluda Shoals Park. With construction expected to begin soon and completion anticipated in just over a year, locals can look forward to beautiful boardwalks, wooded areas, and facilities along the trail. This ambitious project has secured $24 million in funding and aims to become a key outdoor attraction for families and outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
Exciting Developments on the Lower Saluda River Greenway Project!
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as the long-awaited Lower Saluda River Greenway Project takes steps toward becoming a reality! This innovative greenway trail, stretching from Lake Murray Dam all the way to Saluda Shoals Park, is designed to enhance our community’s access to beautiful rivers and recreational opportunities. And guess what? Completion is just a year away!
A Vision in Motion
The groundwork for this project goes back to the late ’80s and early ’90s, initially revolving around plans for Saluda Shoals. Fast forward to now, and we are just waiting for the necessary permits to kick-start construction on this exciting 27-mile trail. Once everything is in place, construction can begin, with a contractor already lined up and ready to go. The estimated timeframe for building is around 15 months, meaning we could be lacing up our hiking boots before we know it!
The Trail’s Path
Are you curious about what the greenway will look like? The trailhead will begin at the intersection of Bush River Road and North Lake Drive, where existing sidewalks will weave into a serene wooded area. Along the way, you’ll discover new and comfortable facilities, including restrooms, a gate office, and even a small public building. How convenient is that?
As you stroll along the trail, you can expect to encounter boardwalks that will gracefully guide you through wetland areas, providing beautiful views, especially near Sandy Island at Saluda Shoals Park. The path will meander through ample wooded areas adjoining the scenic Saluda River, giving outdoor enthusiasts a perfect escape from city life.
A Multi-Phase Affair
But wait! There’s even more! The greenway project has multiple phases in the works. The second phase aims to connect from the lower boat ramp at Saluda Shoals through Shaw Industries property, leading all the way to the Gardendale boat ramp. And get this: a third phase is being planned to link up with the existing Saluda Riverwalk near the prestigious Riverbanks Zoo. This entire phase will be reliant on the completion of the Carolina Crossroads Project, which is expected to wrap up by 2029.
Bridging Gaps
In addition to the greenway itself, there’s talk of a proposed pedestrian bridge over the Congaree River, designed to connect the Lower Saluda Greenway to the Columbia Canal trail. This is all part of a broader vision to make Columbia and its surroundings a more pedestrian-friendly space.
The project has already secured a whopping $24 million from a variety of funding sources, including local, state, and federal grants. This includes a notable $3.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. With such financial backing, the plans seem very achievable.
The Future Looks Bright
As we patiently wait for the final permits from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, there’s a palpable sense of excitement around the Lower Saluda River Greenway. Once completed, this project not only aims to accommodate the outdoor desires of our residents but also to put Columbia on the map alongside other regions like Greenville and Charleston when it comes to easy access to nature.
With eight miles of the greenway navigating through the Lexington-Richland 5 school district, it is sure to be a cherished spot for families, students, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates, as the vision for a glorious greenway is on the verge of becoming a reality!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia’s Greenway Expansion Plans Enhance Outdoor Connectivity
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Greenway
- Lexington Chronicle
- Google Search: Lower Saluda River Greenway
- WLTX
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenways
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Columbia Greenway Project
