West Columbia Riverwalk Remains Closed Following Flooding
Residents of West Columbia, South Carolina, have been dealing with the aftermath of significant flooding that has closed down the beloved Riverwalk. This scenic park is a staple for the community, providing a lovely space for walking, jogging, and enjoying nature. Unfortunately, rising water levels from the Congaree River, which were reported to be just over 30 feet, caused extensive damage, leaving the park under several inches of muddy water.
The Impact of the Flooding
The flood, which was exacerbated by the recent weather patterns from the storm named Helene, left the Riverwalk looking less than inviting. As the waters have begun to recede, it has revealed a landscape covered in mud and debris. “I know folks are eager to get back out because it’s such a valuable asset,” said Mayor Tem Miles in a statement. His thoughts capture the collective sentiment of the community as many look forward to enjoying their favorite park once again.
However, the reality is that the park is not safe for visitors right now. “It’s just not safe to get out, and we need a little bit of time to get it there,” Miles explained. The park’s closure is necessary as the city begins the daunting task of cleanup and repairs.
Next Steps for Recovery
On Thursday, the cleanup efforts officially commenced. Crews arrived on site to start the power-washing of mud and debris that had accumulated in and around the amphitheater and walking trails. The first step to recovery is clearing out the muck that has settled in since the floodwaters surged. “If you go beyond where we are that’s already been cleaned, it’s coated in mud,” Miles elaborated. He painted a vivid picture of the current state of the Riverwalk, describing slick paths, leaning light poles, and obstructive debris making it impossible to navigate safely.
Although the changes may soon bring hope, there’s still much work to be done. Inspections of the wooden bridges, which are critical to the park’s infrastructure, need to be completed before any potential reopening can happen. And while crews are actively working, it’s unclear just how severe the damage really is. “At this point, it’s hard to tell exactly how much damage we have, we are expecting some significant damage,” said Miles.
Community Safety and Future Plans
Amid the substantial damage, it’s also important for the city to remind residents to stay off the Riverwalk for their safety. With no-trespassing signs posted, city officials encourage everyone to heed these warnings and refrain from exploring the area until it’s declared safe. As Miles noted, “It’s just not a safe environment right now.”
Beyond the immediate cleanup efforts, the city is already strategizing financial assistance to help cover the costs associated with the recovery. They plan to seek federal and state assistance as they have done in the past after similar flooding events. “We are always optimistic and hopeful that it’s not going to take a long time,” Miles shared, while also recalling times when sections of the park remained closed for extended periods.
Message to the Community
As West Columbia navigates this challenging time, residents are encouraged to stay informed about the progress being made. The community’s patience and understanding will be crucial as the city works toward restoring the Riverwalk to its original charm. In the meantime, officials assure the public that every step is being taken to ensure the park is safe, beautiful, and ready for visitors once again.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed for a speedy recovery, and here’s hoping to see everyone back enjoying the Riverwalk soon! Remember, together as a community, we can overcome challenges like these with resilience and cooperation.
