COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia City Council has approved a $2.8 million contract for the Williams Street Extension Project, which aims to expand public access to the river, enhance outdoor recreation, and stimulate economic development.
“This project really advances our efforts to make the river more accessible to our citizens and to help them enjoy the natural beauty we have right here in Columbia,” said Clint Shealy, Assistant City Manager of Columbia Water.
Shealy, along with other city and state leaders, announced the first phase of the multi-phase project during a press conference Tuesday overlooking the river. “This project showcases the beauty of Columbia right here in our capital city,” he added.
The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in the spring of 2025. “We are focused on designing and constructing the backbone that will open this property up,” Shealy said.
Phase one of the project will involve the construction of 4,700 feet of new and improved roadways, bike lanes, sidewalks, an electric car charging station, bike-share stations, and related infrastructure.
City Manager Teresa Wilson emphasized the collaboration required to reach this point. “Obviously, the city doesn’t own all the land, so we have had to work closely and respectfully with property owners like the Guignard family and other stakeholders involved in this project,” Wilson explained.
The estimated $20 million project will be funded by the State of South Carolina and the Richland County Transportation Penny Program, with $16 million coming from the state and $4.6 million from the Penny Program.
“I know from the city staff's perspective, we are going to be good stewards of those dollars and the trust that all the stakeholders have placed in us to get this done,” Wilson said.
With design work already 30% complete, Shealy is optimistic about the project’s potential to unlock new opportunities in the Midlands. “We really haven’t been able to capitalize on many of the opportunities that are here. This is just the first step in unveiling the full potential of the Midlands’ natural beauty,” Shealy said.
The project is expected to go out for bid in early 2025.