News Summary
West Columbia has exciting updates as local parks have reopened, inviting residents to enjoy outdoor activities once again. While some parks remain closed for repairs, Maurice’s Piggie Park has officially reopened after a fire last October. Community support remains strong as BBQ lovers flock to the restaurant for their favorite dishes. The city is also addressing flooding damage at Riverwalk, ensuring safety remains a priority. The resilient community of West Columbia is bouncing back, showing genuine spirit during challenging times.
Exciting Changes in West Columbia: Parks Reopen and Maurice’s Piggie Park Bounces Back!
Good News for Nature Lovers
West Columbia is buzzing with excitement! After the recent Winter storm had parks temporarily closed, the city has announced that the parks are officially back open for business. Residents can once again enjoy their favorite green spaces for picnics, playground fun, and leisurely strolls. But hold your horses! Not all parks are ready for visitors just yet. Some are still closed due to ongoing repairs from Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. The city is working diligently to restore these beloved spots, but it might take a little longer before they can welcome back visitors.
Happy Days at Maurice’s Piggie Park!
In more delicious news, Maurice’s Piggie Park has reopened, much to the delight of BBQ lovers everywhere! The West Columbia location was unharmed in a fire that broke out on October 26, which devastatingly destroyed the company’s distribution center, food prep area, and administrative offices. Thankfully, the restaurant has risen from the ashes and welcomed back its loyal customers. Just a day after the reopening, folks were already lined up at the drive-thru and savoring their favorite barbecue dishes inside. The warmth of the community is what really shines through this delicious comeback!
Creative Problem Solving at Maurice’s
Behind the scenes, Paul Bessinger, co-owner and pitmaster at Maurice’s, demonstrated some impressive ingenuity in managing the reopening. They’ve utilized smokers salvaged from the site, and even borrowed additional equipment from family to keep the cooking going. While some other Maurice’s locations are still temporarily closed, it’s good to know that there are plans in motion for soft reopenings with a smaller menu—ensuring that the community doesn’t go too long without their beloved BBQ goodness!
Community Spirit Shines Brightly
The city’s BBQ enthusiasts are showing their support, and the atmosphere is electric with excitement. Paul Bessinger, alongside his team, has expressed how grateful they are for the overwhelming enthusiasm of their customers. Although the current option is not quite as extensive as usual, the community backing really helps lift spirits. The company is also exploring ways to rent additional kitchen space in order to ramp up cooking operations. However, it’s understood that this is a process and will take some time before everything is back to normal.
Safety First at Riverwalk
While the parks are reopening, there is still caution regarding the West Columbia Riverwalk. Due to flooding from the Congaree River, the Riverwalk remains closed. The damage is significant, and cleanup and repair assessments are currently underway. The city is mindful of the hazards posed by mud, debris, and compromised infrastructure, including light poles and fences. The city is actively seeking federal and state assistance to address the repairs needed from this unfortunate flooding incident, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.
Community Resilience
Amidst the destruction caused by the fire and flooding, the emotional toll on local residents and businesses is undeniable. Paul’s son, Cody Bessinger, has shared reflections on this tough chapter for the family but remains uplifted by the unwavering support from the community. It’s heartwarming to see neighbors rally together during challenging times, demonstrating the resilient spirit that defines West Columbia.
Final Word
So, whether you’re itching to get back to your favorite park or you can’t wait to get a taste of some amazing BBQ, West Columbia is on the mend and ready for a bright future ahead. Keep an eye on the parks and Maurice’s for the latest updates and reopenings, as community spirit shines brighter than ever. Stay safe and enjoy what West Columbia has to offer as it rebounds from these recent challenges!
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Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: City of West Columbia Reopens Parks
- Google Search: West Columbia parks reopen
- Cola Daily: Maurice’s West Columbia Location Reopens
- Google Scholar: West Columbia community spirit
- WISTV: City Begins Pick Up Pieces Following Major Flooding
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Columbia
- ABC News 4: Maurice’s Piggie Park Reopens
- Google News: Maurice’s Piggie Park fire
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
