News Summary
Columbia, S.C. is preparing for an exciting transformation of the Saluda Riverwalk as construction begins on the Saluda Sky Ride Gondola Project. This closure, starting January 6, 2025, is part of a larger $80 million expansion at Riverbanks Zoo. While some areas of the riverwalk will be harder to access, alternate routes remain open for visitors. This new gondola ride aims to offer breathtaking views of the Saluda River and enhance local attractions, promising new jobs and tourism for the area.
Exciting Changes Coming to Saluda Riverwalk!
Columbia, S.C. is gearing up for some lovely outdoor transformations as a portion of the scenic Saluda Riverwalk is set to close starting January 6, 2025. This closure comes as the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens prepares to kick off the construction of the much-anticipated Saluda Sky Ride Gondola Project. This aerial tramway will usher in a new era of adventure for visitors looking to experience Columbia’s beautiful scenery from a new vantage point!
What to Expect During the Closure
For the duration of the construction, which is expected to wrap up by January 13, 2025, there will be barricades set up at the end of the boardwalk located directly behind Riverbanks Zoo. While some parts of the riverwalk will be a bit tricky to access during this time, don’t worry! Public access will still be available at the Millrace boardwalk and the 1.5-mile segment of the Saluda Riverwalk trail that extends to the right, which is west and upstream.
Why the Excitement?
This is all part of a grand $80 million “Bridge to the Wild” expansion at Riverbanks Zoo, a project that promises some pretty thrilling developments. The highpoint of this expansion is undeniably the cable car that will help zip visitors over the beautiful Saluda River. Imagine soaring across the river area and taking in the breathtaking views!
The first phase of this expansion has already brought some exciting new attractions, including a stunning white rhino exhibit and completely renovated animal grottos that house other amazing creatures. This gondola ride set for the future will only add to the charm and delight that the zoo brings.
What’s Next for the Riverwalk?
Looking a little further down the line, the entire gondola project is slated for completion in about five years. In addition to the gondola itself, folks can expect a charming riverside restaurant to open its doors in about two to three years—what a lovely spot that will make for a meal or snack after a day of zoo adventures!
This development has been a hot topic among local leaders for decades, and seeing it take shape is a huge win for the Columbia community. All these upgrades and enhancements are also set to create around 500 new jobs, which is always fantastic news. Moreover, it’s projected to bring in about $26 million in additional revenue and attract an impressive 400,000 extra visitors to the zoo each year. It’s safe to say that fun and growth are on the horizon for Columbia!
Weathering the Storm
Interestingly, the need for this construction follows recent challenges faced by the area, including flooding and damage to riverwalks from Hurricane Helene in late September 2024. The continued efforts to enhance the Saluda Riverwalk and Riverbanks Zoo are a commendable response to those challenges as the community works towards revitalizing their attractive green spaces.
So, if you’re planning your next outdoor adventure in Columbia, remember the minor inconveniences caused by the construction and keep your plans aligned with the extensive beauty and possibilities waiting along the Saluda Riverwalk. There’s a lot to look forward to—so mark your calendars for January 2025 and get ready for a new chapter in local outdoor experiences!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia River Levels Drop, Safety Remains a Top Concern Post-Hurricane Helene
Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Saluda River
- The State
- Google Search: Saluda Riverwalk Columbia
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia, South Carolina
- WACH
- Google News: Saluda Sky Ride Gondola
