What would YOU like to see in the

Congaree Riverfront District?

Take the survey and let us know! Your input is vital to ensuring this project serves the City of Columbia for years to come.

Take the Public Input Survey

Congaree Riverfront District

Current Status | Master Planning

The City of Columbia is advancing a collaborative, long-term vision for a connected riverfront destination along the Congaree River, uniting Riverfront Park and Granby Park into a cohesive public realm. This effort will define the district’s character, boundaries, and design framework to create an exceptional experience that celebrates the river’s natural landscape, honors the area’s history, and balances regulatory requirements while supporting thoughtful, complementary private investment.

What would YOU like to see in the

Congaree Riverfront District?

Take the survey and let us know! Your input is vital to ensuring this project serves the City of Columbia for years to come.

Take the Public Input Survey

Congaree Riverfront District

Current Status | Master Planning

The City of Columbia is advancing a collaborative, long-term vision for a connected riverfront destination along the Congaree River, uniting Riverfront Park and Granby Park into a cohesive public realm. This effort will define the district’s character, boundaries, and design framework to create an exceptional park experience that celebrates the river’s natural landscape, honors the area’s history, and balances regulatory requirements while supporting thoughtful, complementary private investment.

Project Significance

Why It Matters

The Congaree Riverfront District project will transform Columbia’s riverfront into a connected and welcoming public destination that elevates community life, expands meaningful access to the Congaree River, and establishes the riverfront as a defining place for residents, families, and visitors from across the region.

Who It Benefits

This project is designed to benefit the entire community by delivering a multi-purpose riverfront destination that supports recreation, environmental learning, and shared public gathering while driving long-term economic vitality and reinforcing the riverfront as a catalyst for growth.

Strategic Alignment

The vision is to create a premier riverfront destination and signature public space that celebrates the character and natural beauty of Columbia’s riverfront. By strengthening mobility and connectivity between Riverfront Park and Granby Park, the plan will enhance access and encourage exploration along the river corridor. It also emphasizes environmental stewardship and long term sustainability while supporting thoughtful private investment that complements the public realm and strengthens regional economic vitality.

Timeline &
Budget

Start Date /
Estimated Completion Date

Start Date: The Master Plan began in early 2026, with public engagement opportunities launching in the first quarter of the year.

Estimated Completion Date: Design and construction are anticipated to occur in phased stages over multiple years as the Master Plan is finalized and funding is secured.

Estimated Project Cost: To be determined through the Master Plan process.

Funding Sources: A mix of available funding, grants, philanthropic support, and potential naming rights or sponsorship opportunities will be explored as planning advances.

Contractors/Partners: The City of Columbia will lead design and construction in collaboration with project partners, including Field Operations, LLC, Guignard Associates, the Boyd Foundation, the University of South Carolina, the USC Development Foundation, and Richland County.

Current Status: The City and its partners have selected Field Operations, LLC to lead development of a comprehensive Master Plan and schematic park design for the riverfront. This process will explore opportunities for limited, complementary private development that supports long-term economic growth while preserving the park’s public purpose and character. Community engagement will be a central component of the work, with multiple opportunities for public input beginning in early 2026.