Flooding Forces Closure of West Columbia’s Riverwalk, Safety Inspections Underway

Flooding Keeps West Columbia’s Riverwalk Closed

West Columbia, S.C. has been facing some tough times lately as the beloved Riverwalk remains closed due to extensive flooding that followed the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. The local park experienced significant water damage when the Congaree River rose to over 30 feet. It’s a sight that many have never seen, and while it’s visually alarming, the city officials are urging the public to stay away until further notice.

Safety First!

“I know folks are eager to get back out because it’s such a valuable asset, but it’s just not safe right now, and we need a little bit of time to get it there,” shared West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles. Safety is the top priority, especially given the conditions that the Riverwalk experienced.

As the water begins to recede, it’s starting to reveal the extent of the damage done. While the Riverwalk is slowly becoming visible again, the aftermath left behind mud, debris, and a long list of repairs that need to take place before it can reopen to the public.

A Long Road Ahead

Mayor Miles emphasized that although the park will eventually reopen, it’s not going to be anytime soon. “At this point, it’s hard to tell exactly how much damage we have, but we are expecting some significant impact,” he noted, adding the critical need for safety inspections on the wooden bridges. Until everything is thoroughly checked out, reopening isn’t even on the table.

This week marked the initial steps to begin the necessary cleanup efforts. On Thursday, city crews started tackling the mess by power-washing mud and debris off key areas like the amphitheater and walking trails. This process is crucial, but it’s just the beginning. Once the cleanup is completed, an assessment will follow to check for any additional repairs needed.

What’s Been Affected?

So, what exactly does the damage look like? As Mayor Miles describes it, if you go beyond the areas that have already been cleared, you’ll find slick, muddy paths and debris scattered everywhere. Signs and benches have been knocked over, and some light poles are leaning dangerously. There’s even water still trapped under some of the raised pathways.

“It’s just not a safe environment right now,” Miles stated. Residents are being encouraged to follow the posted no-trespassing signs and stay clear of the Riverwalk until it can be made safe again. The city is doing all it can to restore this community favorite.

Looking Forward

The city of West Columbia is optimistic about getting the Riverwalk back up and running soon. However, they acknowledge they may have to face some lengthy closures like they’ve experienced in the past due to similar flooding events. To assist with the costs of repairs, the city plans to seek federal and state help, which could provide some relief.

“We are always hopeful that it’s not going to take a long time,” Miles added, as he remains positive about the city’s ability to recover from this setback. But until then, they’re asking for patience from residents who are just as eager to enjoy the park again.

In summary, while the Riverwalk is a cherished area of West Columbia, safety and proper repairs must come first before it can reopen to the public. The community spirit is strong, and residents are looking forward to the day they can stroll along the beautiful Riverwalk once more, but for now, it’s a sit-and-wait game until the conditions are just right.