City breaks ground on GM downtown project to improve crosswalks, greenspace

Jay Powell, Columbia Daily Herald
·2 min read
Columbia has begun its latest downtown enhancement project, which will improve three of the square's pedestrian crosswalks, increase greenspace, as well as provide two new information kiosks for visitors.
Columbia has begun its latest downtown enhancement project, which will improve three of the square's pedestrian crosswalks, increase greenspace, as well as provide two new information kiosks for visitors.

In case you happen to see a few extra construction teams in downtown Columbia, it's because the city has begun its latest project to enhance the Columbia square.

The Columbia Infrastructure and Greenspace Improvement Project was made possible via a $50,000 national GM on Main Street Program. It was also accomplished through the city's partnership with Columbia Main Street. who were one of only five nonprofit organizations and municipal government entities to receive the grant.

Columbia City Council previously voted to accept the grant in March.

More: New $50,000 GM grant to fund upgrades to downtown Columbia crosswalks, landscaping

Contruction for the project began Tuesday and is expected to be completed over "the next several months," according to a City of Columbia press release.

"Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is paramount," City Manager Tony Massey said. "The Columbia Infrastructure and Greenspace Improvement Project underscores our commitment to enhancing downtown's vitality while prioritizing pedestrian safety.”

Pedestrians walk along West 7th Street in downtown Columbia. The street has become a hub for retail activity, tourism and a prime spot for new businesses, restaurants and downtown events.
Pedestrians walk along West 7th Street in downtown Columbia. The street has become a hub for retail activity, tourism and a prime spot for new businesses, restaurants and downtown events.

The project's details include several significant improvements to the downtown district, such as curb extensions at three of the four intersections, as well as increased green space. The curb extensions will serve as an innovative traffic calming measure aimed to increase pedestrian safety by reducing crossing distances and slowing downtown motorists.

"Basically, we are designing the curb out into the white-striped no parking area," Columbia Tourism and Marketing Director Kellye Murphy said in March. "It extends the view for the pedestrians trying to cross the street. They will be able to go further out into that area, and it's traffic calming for the cars that are coming through the square as well."

There will also be two information kiosks to provide visitors with details about local businesses, restaurants and attractions. Increased green space will also offer more areas to gather and relax.

“We are excited to begin this project that has been in our imaginations for quite some time, with many city departments being involved in brainstorming, design, and the construction and implementation. The improvements will provide increased safety and beautification to match more recent improvements downtown.”

Jay Powell is a general reporter for The Daily Herald. Get up-to-date news in your inbox by subscribing to The Daily Herald newsletter at www.ColumbiaDailyHerald.com.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: City breaks ground on $50,000 GM downtown green, crosswalk project