City of Columbia advances vision for future riverfront park with design team approval and historic philanthropic gift by the Boyd Foundation

The City of Columbia took a major step forward in shaping the future of its riverfront during the December 16, 2025 City Council meeting, approving a professional services contract with Field Operations, LLC to lead the planning and design of a comprehensive Master Plan for riverfront district and a schematic design for the future riverfront park.

Field Operations is an internationally recognized landscape architecture and urban design firm renowned for creating transformational public realm and waterfront projects that connect communities, enhance biodiversity, and revitalize urban neighborhoods. The firm’s signature projects include New York City’s High Line, Seattle’s Central Waterfront, San Francisco’s Presidio Tunnel Tops, Memphis’ Shelby Farms Park, and Chicago’s Navy Pier. Founded 25 years ago by James Corner, Field Operations has received numerous awards for design excellence, with work exhibited at institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Venice Biennale.

The approved contract marks the beginning of a collaborative Master Plan and schematic design process that will guide the long-term vision for riverfront district development that includes a new Riverfront Park along the Congaree River, connecting the existing Riverfront Park to Granby Park and creating a regional destination for residents and visitors alike.  The project will work with and take advantage of the existing topography, view sheds, floodplain, floodway and wetland delineations while creating public and private opportunities within the 96 acres included in the project parameters.

“This project represents a transformative step in Columbia’s continued growth and commitment to connectivity,” said City Manager Teresa Wilson. “By advancing a comprehensive vision for our riverfront and strengthening connections to surrounding downtown corridors, we are creating a more accessible, operationally efficient, vibrant, and resilient city. This effort reflects our focus on thoughtful growth, one that enhances quality of life, supports economic development, and ensures our riverfront serves as a shared asset for residents and visitors for generations to come.”

Following Council’s approval of the professional services contract, City Council and City Manager Teresa Wilson received a special presentation from George Bailey, President and Director of the Boyd Foundation, announcing a $5 million philanthropic contribution in support of the Riverfront Park project. The generous gift further demonstrates the Boyd Foundation’s long-standing commitment to transformational projects that enhance Columbia’s outdoor spaces and public realm.

“The Boyd Foundation is pleased to be working with the Guignard family, the city of Columbia, USC, the USC Development Foundation and Richland County on this exciting transformational project,” said Bailey. “This project is in keeping with our top priority of making available outdoor recreational activities to the citizens of our community to improve quality of life.”

The Boyd Foundation has played a significant role in shaping the Midland’s riverfront and cultural landscape, including Boyd Island, Boyd Plaza, partnerships with Historic Columbia, and ongoing efforts such as the Broad River Pedestrian Bridge, the Canal Pedestrian Bridge, and the 12,000 year History Park Visitor’s Center. Upon completion of the Riverfront Project, alongside current and planned projects of other local jurisdictions and non-profits, there will be 27 miles of connected greenway along Columbia’s riverfronts.

“The approval of this design team and the incredible $5 million gift from the Boyd Foundation marks a turning point in our city’s history. We are finally unlocking the full potential of our riverfront, transforming 96 acres into a vibrant epicenter of community and culture,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “We are grateful to the Boyd Foundation, the Guignard Associates, and our partners at USC and the USC Foundation, and Richland County for their vision and generosity. Together, we are creating a seamless link from Riverfront Park to Granby Park and the entire 3RVRS project, ensuring Columbia’s greatest natural asset is finally the heart of our city’s experience.”

Columbia City Council and Richland County Council have also approved of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Riverfront District. Under the MOU, the City and County will explore funding options through the creation of multi-county business parks to help support project related costs. This partnership strengthens the riverfront’s role as a regional destination by aligning public investment, encouraging complementary private development, and advancing long term economic and community benefits.

About the Riverfront Park Project

The Riverfront Park Project is intended to create a premier, multi-purpose public park that enhances community engagement, promotes environmental sustainability, and supports economic development. The approximately 96-acre project area is bounded by the Congaree River, Senate and Gervais Streets, Huger Street, Blossom Street, and land near the USC baseball stadium. The site includes both wooded and open areas, significant topography, and scenic views of the river.

Field Operations will work closely with the City and project partners to:

1. Establish a connected park system linking Riverfront Park and Granby Park
2. Celebrate the natural landscape and honor the area’s history
3. Identify complementary private development opportunities that support economic growth
4. Design spaces for both passive and active recreation, including trails, picnic areas, water access, natural gardens, and greenways

Community Engagement and Next Steps

Public engagement will be a central component of the Master Plan process. Community input sessions are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026, offering residents and stakeholders multiple opportunities to help shape the park’s features and character. Additional information, including engagement opportunities will be shared as the process moves forward.

Together, the City of Columbia and its partners are working to create a riverfront destination that enhances experiences, embraces the river, and serves as a welcoming space for generations to come.