Exciting New Public Space Coming to Columbia!
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as a brand new lawn and public gathering space is set to bring even more life to the BullStreet District. This upcoming project will not only enhance the aesthetic of the area but also becomes a key social hub for the community. Dubbed The Lawn, this vibrant, 1-acre space is designed to cater to the needs of the growing number of residents and visitors who frequent downtown Columbia.
What to Expect at The Lawn
Located conveniently between the WestLawn office building and the Bennet at BullStreet apartment complex, The Lawn is set to become a go-to spot for both recreation and relaxation. It will boast a spacious 3,750-square-foot artificial turf area complete with tiered seating, an event stage, and bistro tables for casual dining. Want to lounge in style? Catenary lights will illuminate the turf court and speakers will be installed in various planters around the space, making it perfect for entertainment and events.
According to BullStreet officials, The Lawn is designed to be a “central meeting space for dining, recreation, and cultural connection.” This means it won’t just be a place to hang out; it will also be a lively venue for community events and gatherings.
Pizza Lovers Rejoice!
Coastal Crust chef and president, Brian Piesner, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, saying, “We create an elevated casual experience for everyone, particularly for families, and we cannot wait to get started.” And what makes this pizza spot so special? They use a custom-built oven that bakes pizzas at over 900 degrees, adding a delightful smoky aroma thanks to kiln-dried oak wood. Yum!
A Timeline for The Lawn and Coastal Crust
Excited yet? The Lawn is set to open in the first half of 2025, so mark your calendars! While the specific opening date for Coastal Crust hasn’t been announced just yet, residents can expect news soon as construction gets underway.
The Big Picture at BullStreet
The development at BullStreet is part of a massive revitalization project that is transforming the 181-acre former State Mental Hospital site. The city has already committed over $100 million for the infrastructure, and there’s a lot more in store! Currently, the area is already home to hundreds of apartments and is bustling with businesses like the Columbia Fireflies minor league baseball team, a Starbucks, an REI outdoor store, and restaurants such as Publico and Iron Hill Brewery.
The University of South Carolina isn’t sitting idly by either; they’re planning a whopping $300 million medical school campus on the northeast side of the BullStreet property. Along with recent store openings and restaurant announcements, the momentum in this part of Columbia is definitely on the upswing. New businesses like a fitness studio, seafood restaurant chain Shuckin’ Shack, and a popular coffee company are all clamoring to be a part of this exciting change.
A Bright Future Awaits
As Columbia continues to evolve, The Lawn promises not just to add green space but also to enhance the community spirit that makes this city so special. So whether you want to enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza, gather with family and friends, or enjoy cultural events, The Lawn is shaping up to be the place to be!
