Columbia launches Congaree Riverfront District plan

The city of Columbia has kicked off the first phase of community engagement for its planned Congaree Riverfront District, inviting residents to help shape the future of a 100-acre stretch along the river.

City officials will host the first public meeting today, April 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Senate’s End on Senate Street. The session is designed to gather feedback from residents, stakeholders and riverfront users before any design concepts are developed, according to a city announcement.

The effort follows Columbia City Council‘s approval in December 2025 of a professional services agreement to begin planning and design work, along with a $5 million philanthropic commitment from the Boyd Foundation.

“For years, we’ve talked about truly connecting our city to our three rivers. This first phase of engagement is the next step in creating 27 miles of continuous greenway that will redefine the Capital City,” Mayor Daniel Rickenmann said in a news release. “This isn’t just about a single park; it’s about a vibrant district reflecting the unique character of our community.”

City leaders say the meeting will focus on identifying opportunities and challenges along the riverfront, as well as priorities related to recreation, environmental preservation and connections to surrounding neighborhoods.

“This is the beginning of the public conversation,” City Manager Teresa Wilson said in the release. “We have selected an exceptional design team and continue to secure meaningful community investment, but the most important voices in this process are the people who live, work and spend time along our riverfront.”

The city has engaged Field Operations, an internationally recognized landscape architecture and urban design firm, to lead the planning effort. The master plan will guide the long-term vision for a connected riverfront district, including a future project linking Riverfront Park and Granby Park along the Congaree River.

Planning will also evaluate environmental features, floodplain considerations and opportunities for recreation and connectivity, while exploring how private development could complement the district, the release said. Community engagement is expected to continue throughout the master planning process, with multiple opportunities for public input.

Residents can learn more online or submit feedback via email at [email protected].