Renewal at Southside Park: Major Upgrades Underway for 2026

Heavy machinery and construction crews are now a fixture at Southside Park as Greenville County moves forward with a comprehensive renovation and expansion plan. The project, which is scheduled for completion by May 1, 2026, aims to modernize the aging infrastructure of the 65-acre regional hub while introducing significant environmental and accessibility improvements.

The construction is part of a broader effort to revitalize one of the county’s most utilized parks. Recent federal and local funding, including a $500,000 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, has paved the way for a total overhaul of the park’s central amenities and a strategic expansion of its footprint.

A Greener, More Accessible Playground

The primary focus for many families is the complete replacement of the existing playground. The old structures have been slated for demolition to make room for a modern, inclusive play area. The new design replaces traditional mulch with poured-in-place rubber and concrete surfaces, ensuring the equipment is accessible to children with disabilities.

In addition to the play structures, the project includes the installation of new shade structures, benches, and fencing. The renovation also addresses a long-standing need for better “routes of travel,” creating new sidewalks that connect the playground to other park features like the parking lots and athletic fields.

Environmental Stewardship and Infrastructure

Beneath the surface, the park is undergoing a massive stormwater management overhaul. This initiative is designed to protect the Reedy River watershed by reducing runoff. Crews are currently installing advanced “green” infrastructure, including a bioretention cell, pervious pavers, and bioswales.

General infrastructure improvements are also prominent in the current phase of work:

• Road and Parking: The main entrance drive is being replaced with a recycled base for better durability, and the existing parking lots are being repaved and expanded to improve traffic flow during tournament weekends.

• Walking Trails: The old asphalt walking paths have been removed to make way for a more integrated pedestrian network.

• Facilities: A new septic drain field is being installed to support the existing restroom facilities, ensuring they can meet the demands of the park’s high visitor volume.

Expanding the Footprint

While construction crews work on the interior of the park, the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust recently assisted in the acquisition of an additional 3.6 acres of adjacent land. This expansion increases the park’s total footprint by approximately 5%, securing the last remaining undeveloped lots next to the facility for future preservation or recreation needs.

Looking Ahead to May

The aggressive construction schedule is designed to have the park fully operational for the peak summer season. As the May 1 deadline approaches, residents can expect a phased reopening of specific areas. Once finished, Southside Park will not only offer improved athletic courts and play spaces but will stand as a model for sustainable park design in the Upstate.