Exciting Groundbreaking for Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista Marks New Era of Inclusivity and Hospitality

Exciting News for Columbia: New Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista Breaks Ground!

Columbia, we’ve got some exciting news! On November 14th, the city witnessed a remarkable ceremony that marked the beginning of something special – the groundbreaking for the new Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista at 1001 Senate Street! With a beautiful backdrop of partly cloudy skies, the event was attended by hotel founders, local leaders, university representatives, and enthusiastic students from the University of South Carolina (USC). You could feel the buzz in the air as everyone gathered to applaud this future gem!

A Dream Realized

Now, what’s the backstory, you might ask? Well, the Shepherd Hotel is not just any hotel. It’s the brainchild of Rick Hayduk, a man on a mission inspired by his two children with Down syndrome. Hayduk wanted to create a space that not only brings in travelers but also actively empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities by giving them job opportunities. The very first Shepherd Hotel opened its doors in downtown Clemson in 2022, and it quickly became a sensation!

With the Columbia location set to be the second Shepherd Hotel in South Carolina, the excitement is palpable. Scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025, this lovely hotel will include 59 boutique-style rooms, all nestled in the historic Columbia Central Fire Station. It’s a fabulous plan that honors the rich history of the fire station while providing modern amenities.

Community Partnerships

One of the standout features of the Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is its partnership with USC’s CarolinaLIFE program. This innovative program is designed to empower young adults with disabilities to achieve their career dreams. So, not only will guests enjoy a lovely stay, but they’ll also be supporting a workforce that prioritizes inclusivity. Isn’t that just fantastic?

During the groundbreaking ceremony, students from USC took part in a symbolic groundbreaking, scooping buckets of dirt (yes, indoors!) to celebrate this momentous occasion. How cool is that? The event also featured a panel discussion with notable personalities, including USC Football Coach Shane Beamer and other local bigwigs. They discussed the significant impact this hotel will have on both the community and the hospitality industry, emphasizing the need for inclusive employment practices.

Bringing History into the Modern Era

This project isn’t just about creating a hotel; it’s about weaving together history and modern development. The Columbia Central Fire Station is one of the oldest in the city, and plans are underway to preserve its essence while introducing exciting features like a fitness center, board room, lounge, and even valet parking!

On the culinary side, Kevin Johnson, a James Beard Nominee and USC alumnus, will oversee the hotel’s food and beverage program. The on-site restaurant promises to offer mouth-watering small plates, craft cocktails, and a delightful selection of local beers and wines, making it a go-to spot not just for hotel guests but for locals too.

Revival and Investment

So who’s behind all this magic? The Raines Co, a well-respected name in hospitality management and development, is taking charge of this project. They’ve teamed up with Mashburn Construction, with the design work being done by the talented folks at Garvin Design Group. Lee Mashburn, president of Mashburn Construction, shared his excitement, saying, “We are honored to contribute to the revitalization of this iconic building.”

In a world often focused on speed and efficiency, it’s heartening to see a project that values community, empowerment, and the beauty of historic preservation coming to life. With furrows of determination and heaps of passion, the Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is poised to make waves in Columbia’s hospitality scene!

Final Thoughts

As we look forward to the grand opening in 2025, one thing’s for sure: the Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista will not only enhance the landscape of our city but will also create meaningful opportunities for individuals who deserve a chance to shine. So, Columbia, get ready! Exciting times are just around the corner!