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City of Columbia Celebrates Small Business Week

The City of Columbia in partnership with Richland County, Columbia Chamber of Commerce, and Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union hosted a press conference and ribbon cutting to kick off National Small Business Week 2024 on Monday, April 29^th at Toms Creek Farmers Market Xchange.

Columbia City Council members, Richland County Council members, and representatives from the Columbia Chamber of Commerce attended. The City and Richland County also presented a proclamation in honor of National Small Business Week 2024.

National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of entrepreneurs and small business owners and celebrates their tenacity. This year, the city recognizes small business owners during this week. To kick-off National Small Business Week, Mr. Larry Schneeberger and Dr. Neset Hikmet, owners of Toms Creek Farmers Market Xchange, were the first to be recognized. Toms Creek Farmers Market Xchange provides an indoor artisan market experience that provides fresh fruits and vegetables along with coffee, bread, meats, and cheese.

For more information, please contact the Office of Business Opportunities at (803)545-3950 or send an email to OBO@columbiasc.gov.

11th Annual Small Business Week Conference

The City of Columbia's Office of Business Opportunities held the 11th Annual Small Business Week Conference on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Social Media Expert, Ken Walker was the Master of Ceremony for this event.

This year's keynote speaker was D. Stephanie Kirkland of Identity Dynamics, LLC. Dr. Kirkland, known as the "Identity Shaper," she talked about the critical relationship between personal identity and business agility. Attendees gained a deep understanding of how harnessing their unique proposition can propel their business forward.

In addition to our keynote speaker there were four (4) breakout sessions from business owners and community resource partners that focused on specific areas for small business owners and entrepreneurs. The Office of Business Opportunities recognized our 2024 Business Spotlight Honoree.

Be sure to check out City Weekly on Monday, May 6, 2024 for a post summary of the event.

2024 City of Columbia Touch-A-Truck Event is Back at Soda City

WHO: City of Columbia Public Works Department, Columbia Police Department, Columbia-Richland Fire Department, City of Columbia Parks & Recreation, Columbia Water and various other City of Columbia Departments

WHAT: Public Works in conjunction with Soda City will be inviting various departments to join them and place their vehicles on display for the public. These departments include the Columbia Police Department, Columbia-Richland Fire Department, Columbia Water, Parking Services and Parks and Recreation. This is the second year that the City of Columbia is inviting citizens to a Touch-A-Truck event downtown at the Soda City Market. Come get a look at some of the City’s largest trucks and heavy equipment as well as demonstrations on how they work, including a backhoe, mini-excavator, bomb-disposal robot and much more. City staff will be on-site to teach everyone how our trucks work and the work they do to keep the City of Columbia thriving. This is a free event and citizens are encouraged to attend and bring their children!

WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 9:00 am-1:00 pm

WHERE: 1700 Block of Main Street, Soda City Market

Join us for Food Trucks and Friends

WHO: The City of Business Opportunities, Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market and Columbia Animal Services

WHAT: Food Trucks and Friends

WHERE: 2300 Bull Street (REI Co-op Parking Lot)

WHEN: Friday, May 3^rd from 11 AM – 3PM

The City of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities is collaborating with Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market and Columbia Animal Services for Food Trucks and Friends.

This event will feature local food trucks: Fresh Pours & Mo’, Jeb’s Famous Hot Dogs, Kurt’s Kitchen & Catering and Maurice’s Catering.

Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market will be in attendance with fresh and affordable grocery options such as meats, vegetables, fruits, canned goods and more.

Columbia Animal Services will be providing pet adoptions and resources.

City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention and Community Partners to Host Mindful Steps 3K to Highlight Mental Health Awareness Month

Who: The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention and Girl Get Up Society

What: Mindful Steps event will begin with a 3K walk at Eau Claire High School and finish with a community day celebration at the Keenan House. The community day celebration will include mental health screenings, a variety of activities, food and entertainment. This event is free and open all ages.

Register Here

When: Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: The walk will begin at Eau Claire High school, 4800 Monticello Road, Columbia, SC 29203 and will end with a celebration at the Keenan house, 801 Wildwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29203 

To view event flyer, click HERE

Columbia’s Local Artists Leap into Spotlight as 35

Columbia Streams Art Painted Trout Sculptures are

Displayed at Columbia Museum of Arts’ Salon Gallery

Following two weeks of public viewing in the Salon Gallery, the trout sculptures will be sold during a thrilling live auction event held at the Museum of Art on May 15.

A dazzling collection of 35 leaping trout sculptures painted by Columbia local artists, and art students from Columbia schools, will be on public display in the Columbia Museum of Arts’ Salon Gallery beginning on Friday, May 3. The leaping trout sculptures were painted and decorated by a diverse representation of local artists and students as part of the City’s Columbia Streams Art public art program. 

At the end of the exhibition period, the City will hold a live auction to individually sell the sculptures on Wednesday, May 15 in the Museum’s Loft event space. The auction event will begin at 6:00 pm and will be free to the public. Guests can expect food, beverages, and a live auction experience. 

Columbia Streams Art is a multi-faceted arts program that engages Columbia’s creative community through highly visible public art projects. Components of the Columbia Streams Art public art program include the leaping trout sculptures painted by local artists and students, students attending Parks & Recreations after school facilities transforming newspaper vending boxes into painted free local libraries, and a new series of travelling urban canvasses displaying a variety of diverse, interconnected creative visions. Proceeds from the auction of the trout sculptures will fund to further public art programs in Columbia.

Who: Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, local artists, members of the public

What: Display of 35 painted leaping trout sculptures, followed live auction event

WHERE: Columbia Museum of Art, 151 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201



WHEN: Beginning Friday, May 3, with auction event on Wednesday, May 15 

To view event flyer, click HERE

Hurricane Preparedness Month

Prepare Ahead of Hurricane Season

Columbia, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has officially declared May as South Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Month. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division, county emergency managers, the National Weather Service, and all members of the State Emergency Response Team urge people, communities, and businesses to start preparing for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season ahead of time. This will allow South Carolinians to have an entire month to prepare for hurricanes, making it easier to take necessary precautions and become aware of potential dangers in all regions of the state.

The state's Hurricane Preparedness Month theme is "Make the most of your time while you still have it." This means that this month is an opportunity for residents to assess and finalize their long-term storm preparations before the beginning of Hurricane Season.

Know Your Zone. In South Carolina, state and local officials issue hurricane evacuations based on zones in coastal counties. Know your hurricane evacuation zone instantly with the SC Emergency Manager mobile app and Hurricane.sc, South Carolina's online hurricane guide.

Prepare Your Home. Do a safety check of your home to ensure it is prepared to withstand the effects of a hurricane. Schedule a roof inspection, double-check your hurricane shutters, and review your insurance policies to ensure they cover the types of damages that hurricanes can cause. Make a list and take photos of your belongings as records. Review your insurance policies now to make sure they cover all your needs.

Remember Your Route. Knowing the closest hurricane evacuation route before the upcoming hurricane season is important. This will help you to find a safer and more efficient way out of the hurricane's path. Once you learn your route, make sure to remember it and stick with it. It is better to rely on the blue hurricane evacuation signs, not a GPS.

South Carolina is one of the most vulnerable states to hurricanes and tropical storms. The state has six coastal counties that border the Atlantic Ocean and over 200 miles of general coastline. The densely populated coastal areas, particularly during peak tourist seasons, combined with the generally low elevations of the coast, pose a significant threat to the state's safety. Hurricanes have the potential to cause damage not only to the coast but also to all areas of South Carolina. Storm surge and flooding are the most deadly and destructive hazards associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. High winds and tornadoes can cause severe damage to buildings and homes far inland.

Recent hurricanes to impact the Palmetto State include Hurricane Matthew in 2016, Hurricane Irma in 2017, Hurricane Florence in 2018, Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Idalia in 2023. In 2015, Hurricane Joaquin, combined with a separate storm system resulted in historic flooding from the Midlands to the Lowcountry.

Hurricane season begins June 1 and lasts through November 30.

Celebrate National Bike Month in May!

Help Us Celebrate National Bike Month in Columbia SC! With spring in the air, the City of Columbia and the League of American Bicyclists, the national organization of bicyclists, announce that May is National Bike Month, May 13-19 is Bike to Work Week and Friday, May 17 is Bike to Work Day.

The City urges everyone to bike to work or try cycling for fun, fitness, or transportation. Visit https://www.columbiacompass.org/celebratemay.html to learn how you can celebrate throughout the Midlands this May.

Considering biking to work or for fun? Here are some tips:

·       Have your bike checked over by your local bike shop

·       Plan your route, incorporating bike lanes, greenways, and less-busy streets when possible

·       Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of a crash

·       Ride in a safe location; in South Carolina, bicyclists may ride on sidewalks, or in the street. If a dedicated bike lane is provided, bicyclists must use the bike lane (if they are riding in the roadway). Please note, the City of Columbia does not allow bicyclists on the sidewalks bounded by Assembly, Gervais, Sumter, and Elmwood by local ordinance.

·       Obey all stop signs, traffic lights and lane markings

·       Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act

·       Be visible and predictable at all times; wear bright clothing and signal turns

City Council adopted Walk Bike Columbia, a bicycle and pedestrian master plan for the City, in 2015. 

To learn more about how the City of Columbia is engaged in bicycle and pedestrian planning efforts, visit https://www.columbiacompass.org/walk-bike-columbia.html and https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/master-plan/ . To sign up to receive email updates from the City of Columbia on transportation planning, visit http://eepurl.com/gfIG25.

For more information, please contact the Planning Division, 803-545-3222, transportationplanning@columbiasc.gov

National Historic Preservation Month

May is National Historic Preservation Month and the City’s Preservation staff has several activities planned to commemorate the event. Since its inception by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1973, National Historic Preservation Month has been a way to promote historic places. The City’s Planning staff is promoting a number of activities and events throughout the month of May that focus on the history and architecture of Columbia.

Preservation Impact Radio Interview

Thursday, May 2, 5:30 AM + 7:30 AM, South Carolina Public Radio

Tune in to SC Business Review on SC Public Radio to listen to Mike Switzer chat with Donovan Rypkema from Place Economics about the recently completed report on the economic impact of preservation in Columbia. Not able to tune in on the day? SC Business Review recordings are available online here: https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/podcast/south-carolina-business-review

Randolph Cemetery Workshop

Saturday, May 4, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Randolph Cemetery, 301 Elmwood

Join members of the Committee for the Beautification and Restoration of Randolph Cemetery for an in depth workshop on proper cemetery maintenance. The workshop will include a tour of Randolph Cemetery and hands on demonstrations on proper lawn and stone maintenance and repair. Randolph Cemetery is a Reconstruction Era cemetery historically established by and for African Americans. The historic cemetery is located just west of Elmwood Cemetery, at the dead end of Elmwood Avenue with parking available along the street. The workshop is free but please register at columbiacompass.org/celebratemay. Participation is limited to 15 participants, so register now!

Melrose Art in the Yard

Sunday, May 5, 12:00 PM, meet at 1429 Hagood

Drop by Historic Melrose for fun and art and stay a little longer to learn about the historic neighborhood with a walking tour! City preservation staff will be providing two walking tours during the event, please register at columbiacompass.org/celebratemay. Don’t have time for a tour? Drop by the preservation table to learn more about current City preservation staff initiatives and projects. The event is dog friendly, so be sure to bring your pup, too!

Council Proclamations & Mabel Payne Award

​Tuesday, May 7, 4:00 PM, City Hall

Attend the City of Columbia's Council meeting in-person and join in the celebration and proclamation of National Bike Month and National Historic Preservation Month, as well as the announcement of the 2024 Mabel Payne Award winner! For details, view the City Council agenda.

Preservation Bike Ride: Green Book + African American Resources

Sunday, May 19, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hop on your bike and join City preservation staff on a bike tour through time as we discuss the importance of Columbia’s historic African American resources. The tour will include a look at the Green Book sites that were safe havens for traveling African Americans during the Jim Crow era. Registration and helmet required. Limited to 15 participants, so register now at columbiacompass.org/celebratemay!

More information about planning for historic preservation in the City of Columbia can be found at https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/historic-preservation/. 

Visit www.columbiacompass.org/celebratemay for more information on all of these great events, as well as additional events still being planned for May!

For more information, please contact the Planning Division at 803-545-3222. 

City of Columbia Bicyclist & Pedestrian Counts Report

The City of Columbia is proud to release a report detailing the analysis of data collected from the City’s periodic Bicyclist & Pedestrian Counts. These counts began in 2014 in conjunction with the Walk Bike Columbia Master Plan planning process. Since then, ten counts have been conducted which have studied bicyclist and pedestrian patterns at 58 locations throughout Columbia. In total, volunteers have counted nearly 50,000 pedestrians and over 2,500 cyclists. The data these counts have provided has helped to better understand the needs of pedestrians and cyclists in Columbia and assisted in prioritizing and installing bicycle and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

To read the report and find out more about current planning projects, visit https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/current-planning-division-projects/.

If you have questions regarding the Bicyclist & Pedestrian Count effort, contact Planning and Development Services Department at 803-545-3181. For information on the City’s Planning efforts, including the Walk Bike Columbia Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan, and the Walkable 29203 Pedestrian Master Plan, visit https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/city-plans/.

For more information, please contact: Tristan Kercher at 803-545-3181 or tristan.kercher@columbiasc.gov

City of Columbia & Columbia Empowerment Zone, Inc. Celebrates Economic Development Week | May 6 – 10, 2024

The City of Columbia and the Columbia Empowerment Zone, Inc. (CEZ, Inc.) are thrilled to celebrate 2024 Economic Development Week, an annual celebration led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) aimed at recognizing and enhancing the efforts that create vibrant communities with strong economies. During this significant week, from May 6 to May 10, 2024 CEZ, Inc. will host a Grand Re-Opening and Ribbon Cutting event, designed to showcase our local achievements in economic development and to explore future opportunities for the growth and prosperity of our community. CEZ, Inc. will also celebrate the launch of the Business Retrofit Incentives Through Energy Savings (BRITES) Program, an incentive program to reduce energy-efficient retrofit costs on small businesses within the City of Columbia.

Highlights of the week include: 

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

City of Columbia Proclamation Presentation at City Council Meeting

City Council Chambers

1737 Main Street

Columbia, SC 29201

Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

Grand Re-Opening & Tour of Historic Huffman House

4300 North Main Street

Columbia, SC 29203

Small Business Opening Ribbon Cutting Celebration for:

Midlands Choice Home Care, LLC

M & A Tax Solutions and Consultants

4300 North Main Street

Columbia, SC 29203

The mission of Economic Development aims to influence development and restructuring of a community’s economy to enhance its well-being-by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate progression, enhanced wealth an provide stable base.

The celebration of Economic Development Week 2024 will be engaging and informative, bringing together community leaders, business owners, and the public to discuss strategies for sustainable economic growth and resilience. 

For more information contact the CEZ, Inc. Office at (803) 748-0964 or cezinc@columbiasc.gov.

Summer Move Out Trash Collection Program

Building on last year’s success, the Solid Waste Division will once again focus on expedited trash collection for move outs, specifically. Solid Waste experiences large increases in bulk item collection during the spring and summer months due to college students moving out from rental properties.

With focused efforts on beautifying the City, the Solid Waste Division will be offering expedited collection services from May 1 through July 31, 2024 to assist in quick removal of move out piles.

Residents are encouraged to call the Solid Waste main office at 803-545-3800 to report they have a pile for collection. Solid Waste will in turn collect the pile within 24-48 hours. Items in these piles can include, but not limited to:

1. Clothing
2. Dishes, kitchen tools and utensils
3. Furniture
4. Bedding
5. Storage bins
6. Artwork or wall hangings
7. Mops, brooms or other cleaning tools
8. Bulky plastics (i.e. coolers, buckets or bathroom garbage pails)

Residents are first and foremost encouraged to rethink their waste. Before tossing items to the curb, assess the quality of the items. Items listed above that are in good condition can have a new life and stay out of the landfill by donating these to a local nonprofit in need. 

City of Columbia Provides One Columbia with Space for Artists

One Columbia for Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the City of Columbia, is excited to announce the opening of a new artists' space at the intersection of Assembly and Taylor Street in Columbia, S.C. The former police sub-station, connected to the Taylor Street garage, will now serve as a studio for four to five artists, including our public artist in residence, Lauren Andreu.

This innovative pilot program aims to inspire the reimagining of spaces in Columbia, particularly in relation to the arts, and showcases the potential of government, private, and non-profit partnerships in supporting the arts community. Local artist Keith Tolen was present at the space on Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th for Open Studios.

“Although Columbia is booming with new developments, some of the best spots are the ones that we reimagine and repurpose,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “We are excited to partner with One Columbia to revitalize this space and give our local talented artists the space and spotlight they deserve.”

Starting in April 2024, One Columbia will invite emerging artists to apply for the opportunity to be part of this space. A diverse panel will carefully review the applications and select the artists who will be awarded this valuable opportunity.

"Our goal is to break down barriers faced by local artists, who are the backbone of our Arts and Culture community," explains Pamela Zeljak, One Columbia's Public Art Administrator.

Thanks to the generous support of AGFirst Farm Credit Bank and other private funders, One Columbia will provide artists with the necessary tools to work, create, and thrive. Xavier Blake, Executive Director of One Columbia, eagerly welcomes artists into the space, recognizing that there is work to do and this is just the beginning.

"We believe that this emerging artist space will not only contribute to the local economy by helping artists establish their careers, but also generate economic activity through art sales and increased tourism in the area. Art has the power to bring about positive change and foster community, and this investment in our emerging artists will be a vital part of that. We are incredibly excited about what the future holds."

About the Organization:

One Columbia for Arts and Culture’s mission is to advise, amplify, and advocate for the unified arts and culture community. We embrace the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion and work to promote collaboration through shared celebrations of Columbia SC’s arts and historic treasures. Our goal is to raise the quality of life for all our citizens, attract tourist dollars to our city, and further enhance our vibrant downtown and surrounding areas.

Amazing Eats in May with Food Truck Fridays

The City of Columbia continues the exciting initiative Food Truck Fridays through the month of May. There will be new food vendors and the food trucks will operate from one location.

The City of Columbia Food Truck Fridays initiative features delicious food as a way to highlight various types of cuisines, which can be enjoyed in our city while connecting with each other over great food. The public can visit the food trucks from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 2300 Bull Street. Please find below the schedule for Food Truck Fridays for the month of May:

Location: 2300 BULL STREET (REI Co-op parking lot at Bull Street, corner of Bull and Colonial)

May 3rd (Featuring: Toms Creek Mobile Market)

Fresh Pours & Mo'

Jeb's Famous Hot Dogs

Kurt's Kitchen & Catering

Maurice's Catering

May 10th

Fresh Pours & Mo'

Mamas Taste of the World

Wise's Fish & Fries

Taco's Oink Oink

March 17th

Fresh Pours & Mo'

Lunas Grill

Jeb 's Famous Hot Dogs

Smoke It Up 

May 24th

Kurt's Kitchen & Catering

La Sanmiguelense Neveria

Maurice's Catering

Tacos Oink Oink

May 31st

Heaven's Cuisine

La Sanmiguelense Neveria

Mamas Taste of the World

Smoke It Up

To view event flyer click HERE

Registration Open for City’s Summer Camps Program

Registration for the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department’s Summer Camps Program, which includes weekly camps and a variety of specialty camps, is open for children ages 5 and up.

Weekly summer camps will be held from Monday, June 10 through Friday, August 2, 2024.

The Summer Camp program focuses on learning programs, social activities, swimming, field trips, arts, sports and more. Camps are open to both city residents and non-city residents.

In the Weekly Camps, children will participate in a variety of theme-related crafts and activities. 

The cost is $85 per week. A one-time activity fee of $55 is due upon registration for weekly camps.

Weekly camps are held from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. for children ages 5-12 (as of June 13) at the following parks:

Greenview Park- 6700 David St., 803-754-5223

Martin Luther King, Jr. Park (Sports Camp)- 2300 Greene St., 803-733-8452

Woodland Park- 6500 Olde Knight Highway, 803-776-1096

Hyatt Park- 950 Jackson Avenue, 803-733-8445

Heathwood Park- 800 Abelia Road, 803-733-8446

Sims Park- 3500 Duncan Street, 803-733-8451

The camp runs from June 10 to August 2, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 

The cost is $85 per week. A one-time activity fee of $55 is due upon registration.

*** When you register please make sure you have selected all weeks that your child will attend summer camp. If all weeks have not been selected, we cannot guarantee a slot for any remaining weeks.

Register online for all camps at https://parksandrec.columbiasc.gov/online-registration/

Tennis Camp

The Columbia Tennis Center located at 1635 Whaley Street, is hosting a summer Tennis Camp for children ages 5-14. The camp will focus on stroke production and techniques, drills, match competition and more.

The camp will be held on the following dates from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.:

June 10-14

June 24-28

July 8-12

July 22-26

The cost of the camp is $60.00 per week.

For more information, contact the Columbia Tennis Center at 803-733-8440.

Golf Camp

The James E. Clyburn Golf Center is hosting a summer golf camp for children ages 8-16 who are interested in improving their golf skills or learning the fundamentals of the game, etiquette and course management. The camp is open to new, intermediate and experienced golfers.

No equipment is needed.

The fee to participate is $60.00 per week.

The camp will be held at the golf center located at 2901 Slighs Avenue from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. (drop-off starts at 8 a.m.) on the following dates: June 24-27

For more information about the summer golf program, contact the Clyburn Golf Center at 803-255-8920.

Art Camp

Let your child explore their creative side through painting, drawing, pottery and more at the Art Center’s summer Art Camp. The camp will be held from June 3^rd through August 2^nd for ages 5-16. Sessions will be held at the Art Center, located at 1227 Taylor St., Ste. C.

Camp is held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. $95.00 per session

Registration is limited to 10 participants per session.

Sessions for ages 5-11

Session 2: June 10-14: Farm Fun

Session 3: June 24-28: Magical Creature Fun

Session 4: July 8-12: Imagination Station

Session 7: July 22- August 2: Medieval Times

Session for ages 9-15

Session 5: July 15-19: Swimming In Your Brain

Session for ages 10-16

Session 1: June 3-7: Pottery Explorations

Session 6: July 22-26: Pottery Explorations

For more information, contact the Art Center at 803-545-3093.

Kayak Camp

Looking for an adventurous summer activity? Join our Kayak Camp and dive into excitement on the water. We offer expert instruction for ages 8-16 years; a safe and fun environment; and friendship and memories to last a lifetime! $125.00 per session

Camp Dates:

Ages: 8-11

June 3-7, June 17-21, July 8-12, and July 29-August 2

Ages: 12-16

June 10-14, June 24-28, July 15-19, and August 5-9

For more information about the Parks and Recreation Department’s summer programs, call 803-545-3100 or visit https://parksandrec.columbiasc.gov/online-registration/ to register online.



To view camp flyers, click HERE

City of Columbia Unveils New Identity: Together, We Are Columbia

City Council and City Manager Teresa Wilson at the April 16, 2024 City Council Meeting

The City of Columbia unveiled a new brand identity this week to instill a better sense of community pride and optimism. Prior to now, Columbia had used the city seal, first created in 1912, as its logo. Last year, Columbia officials recognized the need to better showcase Soda City attributes to move the city forward. They embarked on a nine-month journey to define the city in a more significant way for both current residents and future development.

South Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation, thanks to its warm weather and hot economic climate. Employment is projected to grow 12 percent with a gain of 263,000 new jobs by 2030 according to the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce.

“We want to ensure Columbia continues to attract businesses and talent, while maintaining its rich sense of character, culture and quality of life,” said Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann. “This means thinking about the city not just as a place, but as a brand worth building and promoting.”

The City engaged S.C. based marketing and communications agency Crawford to evaluate the brand through a series of workshops and audits. This helped inform the refreshed strategic direction and tagline Together, We Are Columbia., logo redesign and brand guidelines to create a more consistent and identifiable brand.

Bull and Elmwood New Traffic Pattern

Over the past several months there has been significant construction at the Bull and Elmwood Intersection. This construction has resulted in some changes/improvements to traffic patterns. The most noticeable change is a continuous right hand turn. This continued movement is heading Southbound on Bull Street turning right onto Elmwood Avenue. This right through turn lane is for cars only and has an overhead sign stating “NO TRUCKS OR BUSES THIS LANE”. Please be cautious and adhere to signage as motorists learn the changes/improvements to this intersection.

New Traffic Pattern – Calhoun Street Improvements!

You may have noticed some recent changes on Calhoun Street- not only has the majority of the road been repaved, but it has also restriped to accommodate bicyclists. This long-awaited project began was originally identified in the Richland County Penny Tax Referendum and subsequently incorporated into the Walk Bike Columbia Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan as a major east/west connector – this plan was adopted by the City in 2015 after a robust public planning process. 

The installation of dedicated bike lanes adjacent to on-street parking have shifted vehicular lane assignments and turning patterns between between Park and halfway between Henderson and Barnwell. Motorists must cross the bicycle lane in order to merge into the right turn lane, so it is important for motorists to look for and yield to cyclists before crossing the bicycle lane as one approaches the intersection. As well, driving or parking in the bicycle lane is prohibited by law.

Share the road markings, also known as sharrows, were installed along Calhoun between Wayne and Park and between Henderson and Barnwell to Harden, and while traffic patterns in this section of the roadway remain the same, the arrows will help identify the best course of travel for bicyclists, while bringing awareness of their presence to vehicular drivers. 

On-street parking, while not heavily utilized along most blocks, was maintained throughout the corridor, with some removal of parking along the north side of Calhoun, and identified new parking locations along the south side of Calhoun. 

As part of the project, a three-block road diet along Calhoun between Sumter and Pickens reduces the number of vehicular driving lanes from two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction with a center turn lane. This shift increases safety and efficiency through creating more comfortable driving conditions, more efficient turning movements, and a reduction in the possible points of conflict. 

HOW THE IMPROVEMENTS WERE FUNDED

These improvements are contracted by the City as part of a partnership between the City, the Richland County Penny Tax for Transportation, and the Richland County CTC. The project is managed by the City of Columbia, and was awarded to a contractor through the City’s regular procurement process.

ABOUT MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION PLANNING

Multimodal transportation planning is a shared effort that involves a number of City departments, including Planning and Development Services, Engineering, Public Works, CPD, and Parks & Recreation (where linear parks, or greenways, are developed). This collaborative approach is integral to implementing the City’s pedestrian and bicycle master plan, Walk Bike Columbia, as well as recommendations of Columbia Compass, the City’s comprehensive plan. You can access information about multimodal transportation planning efforts at https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/ .

Columbia Animal Services

Pick Your Price Adoption Special

Pups & Pints Adoption Event

National Rescue Dog Day

City of Columbia Parks and Recreation

City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department Invites the Community to Provide Input for Parks & Recreation Master Plan        

Columbia, SC - The City of Columbia Parks & Recreation Department is seeking members of the community to assist in evaluating park and recreation programs within the City. The results will be used to develop a Parks & Recreation Master Plan for its park facilities, recreation programs, greenways and services. A series of community meetings will be held April and May in recreation facilities located in City Council Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4.

The participants will be asked to weigh in on the extent to which Columbia’s park facilities, recreation programs, and services meet the needs of the community. Participants will also be asked to weigh in on the community’s perception of needs for future facilities, amenities, services, and programs.

The City has engaged the services of Weston & Sampson, a multi-disciplinary planning and design firm to help develop the Master Plan. Please visit https://parksandrec.columbiasc.gov/master-plan/ or scan the QR Code to sign up for a meeting.

Meeting Dates:

The Public Input Meetings for District 1 and District 4 were held in April. Please see meeting dates for remaining districts below;

COMMUNITY INPUT MEETING 3 

City Council District 2

Location: Charles R. Drew Wellness Center- 2101 Walker Solomon Way

Date: Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

COMMUNITY INPUT MEETING 4

City Council District 3:

Location: Ben Arnold Community Recreation Center- 1100 S. Holly Street

Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024

Time: 6:00 pm -7:30 pm

24 CRFD Members Honored at Spring Promotional Ceremony

Two dozen members of the Columbia-Richland Fire Department earned promotions to new ranks of leadership during the early months of 2024. All of them were recognized during a Promotional Pinning Ceremony for the department held on the evening of April 25.

Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins officially presented new badges to 15 fire engineers, 7 fire captains and one new senior firefighter as well as a senior deputy fire marshal. Friends and family members of the honorees were in attendance at the event, which was held at CRFD Headquarters on Laurel Street.

Columbia City Manager Teresa Wilson and Assistant Richland County Administrator Dr. John Thompson also were on hand to congratulate the honorees on their promotions.

“This truly is us ushering in the latest round of officers for our department,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins. “Our newly promoted

engineers and fire captains are becoming the faces of leadership at many of our fire stations. In addition to that, our new senior deputy fire marshal is playing a pivotal role in keeping our communities safe by reviewing fire protection plans for new developments and construction in the city. I am truly proud of these members as they take these next steps in their fire service careers.

2024 Fire Truck Pull Nets More Than $21,000 for Curing Kids Cancer

CRFD Firefighters Among Winners at Annual Charity Competition

Columbia-Richland firefighters took home one of the tops honors at the annual Fire Truck Pull to raise funds in the fight against childhood cancers.

CRFD’s team recorded the best pull time for a 10-person group during the competition on Saturday April 6, 2024. The spring fundraising event was also a huge success as more than $21,000 was raised to support research into pediatric cancers at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Midlands.

“It was once again wonderful to see so many members of our community come out to pull for cures,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, “While our firefighters were thrilled to record a win at this year’s competition, everyone that took part is a hero for stepping up to help out area children who are battling these life-threatening diseases. Our department is nothing short of proud to support Curing Kids Cancer in its ongoing mission to eradicate childhood cancers.”

2024 Fire Truck Pull on Lady Street

“This is my favorite event that Curing Kids Cancer does!,” said Grainne Owen, who is the co-founder and president of the nonprofit, “It pulls together the community in an extraordinary and unique way - yes I know that is a pun but it’s also a fact. Our pediatric cancer families can actually see and hear the support at this event and that is truly a priceless gift of joy for them. So I thank everyone involved, especially Columbia Fire Department, for giving our children and their families this special day.”

In all 22 teams competed in the Fire Truck Pull this year. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department, Aflac and athletic teams at the University of South Carolina were just a few of the groups to try their luck pulling a 14,000 pound CRFD fire engine down a 500 foot stretch of Lady Street.

Every dollar raised from team registrations, collected donations and sponsorships of the event will go to the Gamecock Curing Kids Cancer endowment at the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Midlands. To date that endowment has reached $1.2 million.

Team CRFD Being Recognized as Top 10-Person Team

Joining CRFD’s team in being recognized at the event was ‘Joseph’s Avengers’ as it recorded the second best pull time. ‘Equestrian for Everleigh’ was the team that raised the most donations going into the competition and ‘League of Their Own’ was recognized as the best dressed team.

QUESTIONS: Contact PIO Mike DeSumma at (803)413-8555

April in Review

Piecewise Coffee Grand Opening Ceremony

On April 24, 2024 City Councilman Will Brennan and other City Councilmembers celebrated the grand opening opening of Piecewise Coffee. Piecewise Coffee is consistently sourcing the best products, while partnering with some amazing companies to bring you a delicious cup. The new Piecewise Coffee is located at 2824 Devine Street.

To watch the grand opening, click HERE

Spa Obsessed Grand Opening Ceremony

On April 26, 2024, the City of Columbia hosted a grand opening for Spa Obsessed. Spa Obsessed Owner Diamond McGill has been a licensed cosmetologist for eight years and started in a small studio in her hometown of Marion, SC. Diamond decided to move her studio to the Main Street area as an opportunity to meet and connect with Columbia residents and visitors. Moving to Main Street allows her small business to serve as a central hub where residents, travelers, and families come together to shop, dine, relax, and socialize. Also, she recognizes that Main Street is a place where local businesses thrive and contribute to the unique character that is Columbia. Spa Obsessed offers services such as manicures, pedicures, gel nail extensions, dip powder, and paraffin waxing.

To watch the grand opening, click HERE

Nx Level Graduation

The goal of the NxLevel Microentrepreneur program was to help business owners learn more about “self-sufficiency through self-employment. The NxLevel Graduation was hosted on April 12, 2024.

Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council Meeting

On Thursday April 18, 2024 the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC) held their in-person meeting, inviting Mayor Pro Tem Will Brennan to speak about the integral role of businesses and government entities in encouraging economic growth in the City of Columbia.

The Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC) promotes and facilitates business relationships between the public/private sector and certified minority-owned businesses. CVMSDC is a membership organization of major corporations, financial institutions, government agencies, and universities that operate within North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. 

The monthly meetings serve the continuous goal of creating an environment that fosters solid relationships and growth opportunities in South Carolina and its surrounding areas. The theme of this meeting was Intentionality and Inclusivity, with members from the MLP Ring of the CVMSDC in attendance. One of six geographic RINGs in the CVMSDC, this group encompasses the Midlands, Low Country, Pee-Dee, and cities east of Columbia, SC.



Speaking at the meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Brennan emphasized the importance of collaboration between corporations, business entities, and small businesses. He further encouraged members and attendees to explore work opportunities with the City of Columbia. 

National Telecommunicators Week Kickoff Carnival

On April 20, 2024, the Columbia- Richland 911 Communications Center hosted a carnival to kick-off National Telecommunicator Week. 

3rd Annual Career Fair

On April 24, 2024, the City of Columbia hosted the third annual career fair to promote openings within various departments. City departments with current vacancies were on-site to talk with job seekers about the opportunities they have available and provide information on the scope of work their department performs on a daily basis. Also, other City Department without current vacancies were on-site to showcase how they impact our community and to inform job seekers how to stay in contact for future openings.

The City of Columbia Recognizes Youth Violence Prevention Week in April

The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention recognized Youth Violence Prevention Week during the week of April 14 - 20, 2024

X-Factor Experience

On April 16, 2024 The R.I.C.H. Program in partnership with the Office of Violent Crime Prevention hosted an encore performance of The X Factor role play session where youth interacted with each other to discuss their emotions and triggers of “real” life situations. The role paly session was followed by a discussion about the impacts of video games and social media between youth and adults. Renowned Growth Coach Welvin Simpkins also talked with participants about becoming "A LIFE Champion." Coach Simpkins is the Founder & CEO of Lĭv To Grō, a style of visionary coaching that encourages and empowers participants by giving them clear direction and strategies for achieving success.

Youth Game Night with Councilwoman Tina Herbert 

On April 18, 2024 Councilwoman Tina Herbert and the City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention hosted a successful Youth Game Night as part of Youth Violence Prevention Week. The goal was to offer youth in the community an opportunity to come together and spend their free time by participating in positive activities. This event was attended by over 50 youth & adults.

Councilwoman Hebert and Trevon Fordham, Director of the Office of Violent Crime Prevention, gave remarks on the importance of giving the youth in our community a safe place to spend their time.

Youth Entrepreneurship

On April 19, 2024, The Office of Violent Crime Prevention partnered with local entrprenuers and E.A.R.N. The Right, to share tips on how youth and young adults can turn their creative ideas into business opportunities. A panel of local business owners talked about their business journey and give valuable tips for starting and running a business. Participants also participated in exercises to practice their skills!

Stomp Out Crime

On April 20, 2024 the Office of Violent Crime Prevention and community partners hosted a Stomp Out Crime event. This event was a FREE community event that featured HYLO Art Talent Show, Car & Bike Show, and a Safety Health Fair that included live entertainment, a meal, vendors, resources, activities for children, and new clothing giveaway.

CITY MEETINGS

May 2

Board of Zoning Appeals

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

May 7

Community Development

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 11am

May 7

Budget Workshop

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 1pm

May 7

City Council Meeting

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

May 9

Planning Commission

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

May 14

Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 1pm

May 14

Arts, Historic Preservation and Philanthropy Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 1pm

May 16

Design/Development Review Commission

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

May 21

Budget Meeting

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 1pm

May 21

City Council Meeting

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 4pm

May 28

Public Safety Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 11am

May 28

Public Safety Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 11am

May 28

Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 1pm

May 28

Administrative Policy Committee

City Hall, 1737 Main Street, 11am

Please check the city's website for updated information: https://columbiasc.gov/