West Columbia Extending Access to the Congaree River

Over the past three years, the Three Rivers Greenway, which stretches along the banks of the Congaree River in West Columbia has become a source of recreational opportunities, economic development and an outdoor classroom for residents. On a weekly basis, hundred of families and individuals enjoy this riverfront park and take advantage of the wonderful river access it provides.

The overwhelming success of the West Columbia Riverwalk and requests from residents prompted the city to investigate ways to extend the Greenway along the Congaree River. A solution was found in late 2005, and on March 14, 2006 Mayor Bobby Horton, in conjunction with the River Alliance, announced plans for a half-mile extension of the Three Rivers Greenway in West Columbia. This West Columbia Riverwalk Extension, as it is called, will open additional access for fishing, enjoying views of the pristine islands and Columbia skyline, as well as the tranquil sounds of water rippling over large river boulders.

The stretch of property for the new extension, located between the Gervais Street Bridge and the Jarvis Klapman Bouldvard Bridge will connect to the West Columbia Riverwalk near the Riverwalk Amphitheatre. This section of Greenway, which connects Cayce and West Columbia, has been in use for nearly three years and boasts over 300 visitors per hour in good weather.

“We have been working with Bridgepoint property owners and Columbia Farms owners to find a way to open up this stretch of river to extend public access to the Congaree for quite some time,” said Mayor Horton. “We hope that this new extension will provide West Columbia residents with a host of new opportunities to enjoy our river.”

The Three Rivers Greenway in West Columbia has already served as an economic development stimulus, and city representatives hope this new extension will serve as a similar cayalyst.

The new portion of the Greenway will include ADA capable, lighted, paved trails, emergency call boxes, park benches and other amenities found on existing portions of Riverwalk. A new parking area will be added on the northern end of the extension off Moffatt Street and regular policing will increase the safety of the area.

The West Columbia Riverwalk Extension is anticipated to be open for public use in late summer 2006.