Southside Park Transformation: Significant Construction Milestones Reached

The sound of progress is echoing through Southside Park as construction crews hit several key milestones in the massive 65-acre renovation project. As of late February 2026, the skeletal frame of the park’s future is officially taking shape, moving the regional hub closer to its scheduled May 1st grand reopening.

Clearing the Way for Play

The most visible progress has occurred at the park’s central hub. Crews have successfully completed the demolition and removal of the aging wooden playground structures. In their place, the ground has been graded and stabilized to support the incoming inclusive playground.

Passersby can now see the defined borders where the new poured-in-place rubber safety surfacing will be installed. This transition from mulch to solid, accessible surfacing is a major step in the county’s goal to make Southside a premier destination for families of all abilities.

Infrastructure Below the Surface

While much of the work is visible from Baldwin Road, some of the most critical progress has happened underground. Over the last several months, construction teams have made significant headway on the park’s green infrastructure.

Completed milestones include:

• Stormwater Systems: Installation of the main bioretention cells and infiltration trenches is largely finished. These systems are designed to filter rainwater before it reaches the Reedy River.

• Utility Upgrades: The new septic drain field, essential for the high-volume restroom facilities near the athletic fields, is now in place.

• Pathways: The old, cracked asphalt walking trails have been stripped away, with the sub-base for the new, wider concrete pedestrian network currently being poured.

Expanding the Horizon

While heavy machinery works the interior, the park’s boundary has officially grown. The acquisition of 3.6 acres of adjacent land is complete, effectively preserved from residential development. This new section has been cleared of debris and is being integrated into the park’s overall master plan, ensuring that the 5% increase in acreage is ready for use by the time the gates fully open.

The Home Stretch

With roughly two months left on the construction calendar, the focus is now shifting to vertical improvements. Residents will soon see the arrival of massive shade structures and the final installation of the playground equipment itself.

Greenville County Recreation officials confirm that despite the winter weather earlier this year, the phased approach remains on track. Once the final paving of the interconnected parking lots is finished, Southside Park will transition from a construction zone back into the vibrant heart of the community.