Design plans to revitalize Finlay Park in downtown Columbia include an improved event stage, playground, climbing wall, splash pad, and pathways to enhance a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Work on the $21.5 million renovation will likely begin next spring and take up to 18 months after the completion of the design process.
A key feature of the new park will be the renovated fountain that flows into a new central pond which will be surrounded by lush plants.
The landscaping of the park will be a significant part of the update with the addition of a shaded strolling garden, new shrubs, grasses, and flowers planted along the hillside. The proposal plans to preserve the existing canopy of trees and plant new ornamental trees in key areas.
Plans to update the park have been in the works since 2019, but are now moving forward quickly, thanks to $8.5 million from the city + $1 million from state funding.