News Summary
Columbia is set to invest $7 million in expanding the Vista Greenway, connecting downtown to BullStreet. With plans for a $3 million extension to North Main Street and an additional $4 million stretch to Page Ellington Park, this project aims to enhance outdoor accessibility and promote car-free travel. While no timeline has been announced, the goal is completion by 2028. Supporters emphasize the importance of greenways in boosting local tourism and overall quality of life for residents.
Exciting Plans Unveiled for Columbia’s Vista Greenway Expansion!
Big things are happening in Columbia as the city gears up to invest a whopping $7 million into expanding the popular Vista Greenway! This expansion aims to connect the bustling downtown corridors all the way to the thriving BullStreet district, giving residents and visitors even more ways to enjoy the great outdoors and explore the city.
Funding in the Works
The city has its eyes set on securing funding for this ambitious project, looking at potential support from Richland County’s recently renewed penny transportation tax. This financial boost could be just the ticket for bringing the vision to life.
Currently, the Vista Greenway runs from Lady Street to Elmwood Avenue, providing a lovely route for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the city is already on to the next phase with plans to extend it further. The very first extension to North Main Street is expected to cost around $3 million.
The Next Steps in Trailblazing
But wait, there’s more! The greenway will continue its journey with an extension stretching approximately 1.6 miles from North Main Street to Page Ellington Park in BullStreet, which is estimated to add another $4 million to the project costs. Those already enjoying the charm of the greenway will have new spots to explore with fresh connections paving the way.
Now, while there’s tons of excitement around these plans, it’s important to note that city officials haven’t set a specific timeline for the construction of these new phases. The pace of progress hinges on securing funding and obtaining right-of-way access. However, the end goal is crystal clear – to have the entire greenway completed by 2028 and stretch out to about 3.75 miles one-way. Isn’t that fantastic?
Bridging the Gaps
Supporters of the project, including cycling advocates in the city, are emphasizing how crucial this greenway is for effortlessly connecting Columbia, enhancing car-free travel, and making it easier for everyone to get around. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about the quality of life! Having well-connected greenways is expected to also boost tourism, making Columbia a more attractive place to visit.
Though the existing Vista Greenway opened back in 2012, with expansions rolling out in 2016, there’s a growing consensus that it still feels a tad hidden. The current greenway doesn’t connect beyond Finlay Park, which is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen in the fall. Therefore, the expansion is more vital than ever!
A Holistic Approach to Connectivity
Moreover, local leaders are pushing for the greenway system as a critical element for enhancing the quality of life for residents. But that’s not all. Several exciting projects are in the pipeline too! There are plans for the expansion of the Saluda Greenway and a brand-new bridge across the Broad River. Talk about taking connectivity to the next level!
To make things even more vibrant and safe, a public art installation is in the works for the Lincoln Street Tunnel. This tunnel connects the Vista Greenway to the Navy and has recently received a generous donation of $150,000—a fantastic investment towards enhancing visibility and safety.
Safe Streets, Happy Riders!
Columbia is also stepping up its game with the implementation of buffered bike lanes alongside River Drive. These carefully designed lanes aim to improve safety for both cyclists and pedestrians, while also connecting neighborhoods to the greenway and ensuring accessibility for everyone. After all, everyone deserves a safe and enjoyable way to explore our beautiful city!
With all this exciting news, Columbia is shaping up to be an even more thrilling place for residents and visitors alike. Keep an eye out—there’s much more to come as we turn these plans into reality!
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Lincoln Street Tunnel Art Project
- WIS TV: River Drive Buffered Bike Lane Project
- WLTX: Bike Lanes in Columbia
- Cola Daily: Lincoln Street Tunnel Reopened
- Wikipedia: Greenway
- Google Search: Columbia Greenway
