The City of Columbia has launched phase one of the Williams Street Extension project that will further expand access to the city‘s riverfront and improve its riverfront gateways.
An event was held recently at the future site of the project located alongside the river between the Gervais and Blossom streets bridges.
“As we take the next steps for Williams Street Extension, Columbia is finally unveiling our river, creating opportunities for easy public access, and paving the way for true riverfront development,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann said in a news release. “We would not be making this announcement today without the charismatic regional collaboration from our State House Delegation, Richland County, the University of South Carolina, and local businesses and organizations. Thank you for uniting to make this catalyst project a reality.”
The future impact of the Williams Street Extension project has been imagined and conceptualized by numerous stakeholders across the community, according to the release
Phase one of the Williams Street Extension project includes the construction of approximately 4,700 feet of new and improved roadway, 4,700 feet of new sidewalks, three electric car charging stations, two bike share stations and other related infrastructure needed to support the roadway, the release stated. The project focuses on several key objectives, including:
- Expanding public river access
- Spurring economic development in the area and surrounding communities
- Improving public safety and connectivity to our rivers, roadways and districts
- Enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities alongside and on the rivers
- Strengthening pride of our City and bolstering our sense of community
This project is being funded through the State of South Carolina and the Richland County Transportation Penny, the release stated. Available funding is estimated at $20.6 million, with $16 million coming from the State of South Carolina and $4.6 million coming from Richland County Transportation Penny program.
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The design of the project is currently underway with 30% of the plans completed. City Council approved a contract with Hussey, Gay, Bell and DeYoung in the amount of $2.8 million at a recent City Council meeting, the release stated. The contract will cover design, permitting and construction administration services.
The project is anticipated to go into bid in early 2025 with construction starting in the spring of 2025.
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