City of Columbia launches public engagement phase for Congaree Riverfront District Project
March 16, 2026
The City of Columbia is inviting residents to shape the future of its riverfront as the Congaree Riverfront District Project enters its first phase of community engagement.
Following City Council’s December 2025 approval of a professional services agreement to begin planning and design work for the 100-acre riverfront district, along with a $5 million philanthropic commitment from the Boyd Foundation, the City of Columbia and its design team are now turning their focus to listening.
The City will host the first in a series of public meetings on April 1, offering residents, stakeholders and riverfront users an opportunity to share ideas, priorities and concerns before any design concepts are developed.
“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,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “This isn’t just about a single park; it’s about a vibrant district reflecting the unique character of our community. Your input on everything from recreation to environmental preservation is at the heart of this process. This is your riverfront, and we want the final vision to be a reflection of your dreams for Columbia.”
The first public meeting will focus on gathering input regarding opportunities and challenges along the riverfront, desired recreational amenities and public spaces, environmental priorities and preservation, and links to surrounding neighborhoods and destinations.
Congaree Riverfront District Public Meeting
Date: April 1, 2026
Time: 4–6 p.m.
Location: Senate’s End (The Hall), 316 Senate St., Columbia, S.C. 29201
Residents can learn more or indicate plans to attend the meeting at growth.columbiasc.gov/portfolio/congaree-riverfront-district/
Community engagement will continue throughout the Master Plan process, with multiple opportunities for residents to participate.
“This is the beginning of the public conversation,” said City Manager Teresa Wilson. “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 and design process. The planning effort will guide the long-term vision for a connected riverfront district, including a future project along the Congaree River linking the existing Riverfront Park and Granby Park. The process will evaluate natural features, floodplain considerations, environmental assets and opportunities for recreation and connectivity.
As planning continues, the Master Plan will also consider how complementary private development may thoughtfully interface with and support the district park. These discussions will occur alongside broader conversations about connectivity, recreation, environmental stewardship and long-term vitality within the Congaree Riverfront District.
For more information on the project or the April 1 meeting, visit growth.columbiasc.gov/portfolio/congaree-riverfront-district/. Residents may also share ideas by emailing [email protected].
