Columbia’s South Main Street Transformation: A Glimmer of Hope Amid Construction Woes
Columbia, a city known for its vibrant community and bustling downtown, is currently witnessing a much-anticipated transformation on South Main Street. Just under two years ago, a group of local leaders gathered with golden shovels in hand to celebrate the groundbreaking of a project destined to breathe new life into one of the city’s most neglected areas. The stretch of road, which runs between Blossom and Pendleton streets, has often been described as a concrete-laden eyesore, and for years, plans have been in the works to revamp this ugly corridor.
The Journey to a New South Main
Back in February 2023, prominent figures, including Governor Henry McMaster and University of South Carolina President Michael Amiridis, kicked off the project, which proposed to transform South Main from five lanes down to two. The plans promised the installation of green space, widened sidewalks, and bike lanes to promote a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. However, this ambitious venture has faced its fair share of challenges, including rising construction costs and delays that have stretched the timeline from the project’s initial proposal in 2017.
And now, nearly two years into the construction, many are left wondering: When will the new South Main Street finally be revealed? As work continues, local businesses are feeling the pinch of ongoing roadwork. Take Robbie Butt, for instance. He and his son Keaton opened a new sandwich shop at the corner of Main and Pendleton streets in February 2024, right in the thick of the construction chaos.
A Small Business Owner’s Perspective
Despite the grand opening festivities, Butt was acutely aware of the challenges that lay ahead. “I knew that the construction would affect foot traffic,” he admitted. A barrier isolated his restaurant from campus goers, leaving many unaware of its presence. “The kids on the other side of all that construction had no idea we were there,” he said, reflecting on the difficulties of running a business in such an unusual environment.
While common foot traffic has been sparse, Butt has relied on catering orders to stay afloat. Although he’s unable to quantify exactly how much business he’s lost, he remains optimistic. “When the construction gets done, I really kind of expect my business to double or triple,” he concluded confidently. Moreover, he believes that the promised upgrades to the area—like new crosswalks and shady trees—will make it a more enticing destination for diners.
Community Support and Future Prospects
Butt isn’t alone in his hopes for the future. Matt Kennell, CEO of the Main Street District, echoed similar sentiments about South Main’s potential. The Main Street District, having undergone its own transformation years ago, offers an encouraging example. After a streetscaping project in 2010, that area became a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, and community events like the ever-popular Soda City Market.
Kennell believes the same revitalization can happen on South Main. However, it will require patience, as roads have been disrupted and businesses have faced hardships during the long construction period. “They have much brighter days ahead,” he assured local entrepreneurs, who are anxiously waiting for the dust to settle.
Looking Ahead
With construction expected to wrap up by the summer of 2025, businesses are counting down the days until they can enjoy the benefits of a modernized South Main Street. The University of South Carolina has been a key player in the project, recognizing how essential this corridor is for the school’s growth.
USC architect Derek Gruner previously mentioned that this stretch of Main Street hasn’t seen the same level of quality development as others in the area. With a fresh design plan from the acclaimed firm Sasaki, the hope is to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages community engagement and economic activity.
So while the present may seem fraught with challenges due to construction, the vision for a beautiful and bustling South Main Street is on the horizon. With community support and a little bit of patience, Columbia’s South Main could soon be the bright and lively hangout spot it was always meant to be.
