News Summary
The Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission has initiated construction on the Saluda Shoals Riverwalk, a $22 million project aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation in the area. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on April 29, 2025, marking the launch of phase one, which will create an 8-mile path connecting Lake Murray to Downtown Columbia. This initiative will improve active transportation options and foster a vibrant community, with future phases planned for expansion.
Irmo
The Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) has officially begun construction on the Saluda Shoals Riverwalk project, a significant $22 million initiative designed to enhance outdoor recreation and connectivity in the region. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on April 29, 2025, marking the start of phase one of the project, which aims to develop an 8-mile multi-use paved path linking Lake Murray to Downtown Columbia.
Previously known as the Lower Saluda Greenway, this ambitious project will improve active transportation options for residents, allowing them to walk, bike, and run along the beautiful Lower Saluda River. The first phase of the Riverwalk will feature a 2-mile extension of an existing greenway within Saluda Shoals Park, with construction costs estimated at $5.5 million. This extension will connect directly to the Lake Murray Dam.
Once completed, the Riverwalk will provide a convenient and scenic route for residents and visitors alike, enhancing recreational opportunities along the river. The newly developed multi-use path will be 12 feet wide in areas with high density and will taper down to 10 feet in less populated parts. One of the challenges of the trail will involve crossing a busy intersection at Broad River Road and Lake Murray Boulevard to access the greenway from the Lake Murray Dam. Plans are in place to construct a pedestrian bridge over this intersection, pending the successful attainment of additional funding.
The ICRC is advancing quickly, with expectations to complete the first phase of the project within approximately 15 months from the groundbreaking date. Furthermore, officials from the ICRC and the Central Midlands Council of Governments are eager to move forward with phase two, which will extend the trail further downstream. Meanwhile, phase three will hinge on the progression of the South Carolina Department of Transportation’s Carolina Crossroads project, anticipated to wrap up in 2029.
The Saluda Shoals Riverwalk project has garnered funding from various local, state, and federal sources. This includes a substantial $3.2 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce, which underscores the project’s significance to the community and its strategic development. Ultimately, the proposed greenway and its associated connections aim for a total reach of approximately 27 miles throughout the area, promising an extensive network for outdoor enthusiasts.
The vision for this unified greenway network began to take shape as far back as the late 1980s and early 1990s. Community leaders have long recognized the importance of facilitating outdoor activities and connectivity within the region. As the project progresses, the ICRC continues to engage a contractor who is prepared to commence works immediately upon acquiring all necessary permits.
With the groundbreaking for the Saluda Shoals Riverwalk now underway, the ICRC is optimistic about the future of outdoor recreation and transportation in the Irmo area and beyond. This initiative represents a significant step toward creating a vibrant, interconnected community that values outdoor spaces and active lifestyles.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Saluda Shoals Riverwalk
Lake Murray’s Pinot and Pearls Charity Auction Event
Columbia Hosts First Annual South Carolina Pimento Cheese Festival
Festivals and Events to Look Forward to in Columbia This April
Pimento Cheese Festival and Literary Events in Columbia
Lower Saluda Greenway Construction Begins for Columbia Residents
Columbia Residents Face Traffic Delays and Gas Leak Alerts
Holiday Lights on the River Opens at Saluda Shoals Park for a Festive Family Adventure
Experience the Magic of Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park
Columbia Celebrates the Holiday Season with Charity Rides, Toy Drives, and Dazzling Light Shows
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Three Rivers Greenway
- Wikipedia: Greenway
- The State: Local News
- Google Search: Saluda River Greenway
- Lexington Chronicle: Saluda Shoals Park
- Google Scholar: Saluda Shoals Park
- Cola Daily: Irmo-Chapin Riverwalk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Riverwalk
- Post and Courier: Greenways Project Update
- Google News: Greenway Projects South Carolina
