Traffic Transformation in Five Points Promises Safer Streets and Better Walkability

COLUMBIA — A Traffic Transformation in Five Points

Hey there, Columbia! If you’ve been trying to navigate the bustling streets of Five Points lately, you might have noticed that things have been a little, shall we say, congested. Just a few weeks ago, on October 15, traffic ground to a halt near the Senate Street intersection on Harden Street as construction crews diligently worked on an *ambitious project* designed to improve this beloved area.

This project was birthed from a vision that’s been *five years in the making*, aiming to make Five Points not just *an iconic neighborhood* but also a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment. Since construction kicked off back in April, it’s been a rollercoaster ride of activity—and while it might be causing a few headaches now, the end goal promises to be worth the wait!

Redesigning the Roadway

So, what exactly is happening? Well, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is busy *reshaping traffic flow* in Five Points. To start with, Harden Street, a key thoroughfare for the area, will see a reduction from four lanes down to two. That’s going to be a big change, but the plan includes wider sidewalks where folks can stroll comfortably, and lush, plant-lined medians that will help keep pedestrians safe by encouraging them to use crosswalks.

Also getting some attention is Devine Street, which will see a reduction from four lanes to three, all in the name of safety and improved aesthetics. As for the *eye-catching medians*, construction is already complete on the 600 and 700 blocks of Harden, with plans to finish the 800 and 900 blocks by mid-October and the final touches on the 1100 block by mid-November.

Sidewalks and Drainage Improvements

Aside from the medians, there’s a lot more happening behind the scenes. Expanded sidewalks and drainage improvements from the 600 to the 1100 blocks of Harden are slated to kick off in early November, with an expected completion in January. And if you’re worried about repaving, fear not! Sections of Harden Street from the 600 block to Gervais, along with portions of Devine and Saluda Avenue, will be repaved by spring 2025, just in time for the lively *Five Points Saint Patrick’s Day Festival* to kick off.

What Local Businesses Think

Now, let’s talk about the folks who keep the vibrant spirit of Five Points alive—local business owners. With construction in full swing, traffic flow has definitely been affected and pedestrians have faced detours. However, not all feedback has been negative. The *Five Points Association President*, Heather McDonald, mentioned that despite some grumbles about slower traffic, it’s all part of a necessary sacrifice for improved infrastructure. “That was the end goal of the project, so I think that it’s working,” she said.

Of course, some business owners are feeling the pinch from the constrained access. Steve Cook, who owns both Saluda’s and Arroyo, noted that while established spots like Saluda’s have weathered the storm fairly well, the newer Arroyo saw a dip in traffic initially due to the construction. Cook confidently stated, “The idea has always been that, hey, the final product would be worth having a little inconvenience in the middle.” And he’s right! Just like remodeling your home, there might be a bit of chaos to endure, but the shining end result can make it all worthwhile.

Looking Ahead

So, as we navigate these changes together, let’s keep an eye on the road ahead—and let’s have some faith that the disruptions today will lead to a *much improved* Five Points in the future. The final touches, including improved pedestrian and crosswalk signage, are expected to be complete by spring 2025, and if everything goes according to plan, the entire project should wrap up by June. Here’s to *better walkability*, safer streets, and a thriving Five Points! Hang in there, Columbia—you’ll be zooming through in style before you know it!