Development

Screenshot 2025-12-10 at 11.40.01 AM.png
Development
Vista block along Senate Street set for redevelopment
The $80 million LOCAL Columbia development will add new apartments, retail space, parking, and streetscape improvements just one block from the State House.
December 10, 2025 01:37 PM
 · 
David Stringer
Exterior of 747 Saluda Ave. in Five Points, showing the storefront window with Sparrow Construction and Godspeed Coffee branding. Brick columns and greenery frame the entrance.
Development
Godspeed Coffee puts down roots in Five Points
Godspeed Coffee is looking to open its first permanent location in Five Points by the end of the year, with Sparrow Construction leading the buildout.
July 24, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
Gateway 737-0167 2 Medium.png
Development
Gateway 737 opens as USC’s largest student housing project
With 940 beds and rooftop views, Gateway 737 marks a major milestone in USC’s campus-adjacent growth.
July 22, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
Initial renderings of the new development project proposed for the block bordered by Main, Hampton, Washington, and Assembly streets.
Development
Answered: our readers’ thoughts on Columbia’s changing skyline
Columbia’s skyline may soon see its tallest addition in nearly 40 years. Developer Core Spaces is planning new 26 and 22-story towers, reaching ~300 feet tall, for the block bordered by Main, Hampton, Washington, and Assembly streets. Here’s what our readers think about the new development.
May 27, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Richland Mall rendering (may 2025)
Development
Richland Mall development to be anchored by Kroger Marketplace
The City of Forest Acres released updates on the Richland Mall development, including its first tenant, a prototype Kroger Marketplace, and construction timelines.
May 15, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Initial renderings of the new development project proposed for the block bordered by Main, Hampton, Washington, and Assembly streets.
Development
Columbia’s skyline is set to feature two new apartment towers
The 26-story and 22-story towers will change Columbia’s skyline and house apartments for both residents and students — we want to know your thoughts on the project.
May 13, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
A pothole in the middle of concrete, filled with water.
City
SCDOT announces its ‘Pothole Blitz’
The statewide effort invites residents to report potholes so crews can patch them and improve safety for drivers.
March 17, 2025
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
Watercolor design concept for the Brookland Commons Campus
Sponsored
A local retirement community designed for you, by you
Brookland Commons, a new and innovative senior living community by Still Hopes, is coming soon to the Midlands and accepting expressions of interest.
Sponsored by
A view of downtown columbia with the South Carolina Monument to the Confederate Dead and Synous building in the shot.
City
Downtown Columbia reimagined with its Strategic Plan and Design Guidelines draft
Residents are invited to give feedback on the plan that outlines its objectives with six “big ideas” for downtown Columbia.
March 11, 2025
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
Three blue cabins traveling over a river on the Saluda Skyride.
Development
Saluda Skyride in development at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
The aerial lift will connect the zoo and botanical garden and offer panoramic views of the Saluda River area.
February 27, 2025
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
IMG_1080.JPG
City
How Columbia’s Design Review Commission shapes the city
Columbia’s Design Review Commission approved major projects, preservation efforts, and urban developments in 2024, shaping the city’s growth while preserving character.
February 20, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
Load More
Latest News
More from COLAtoday
TOLM-Attendees-Dancing-CCLMC.png
Food
The Taste of Lake Murray returns
Tickets are on sale now for Taste of Lake Murray, supporting Lake Murray’s Independence Day fireworks.
January 26, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Columbia SC Oct 2022-3745.jpg
City
Applications open for Leadership Columbia Class of 2027
Leadership Columbia offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, issues, and decisions shaping the Midlands.
January 22, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
SCDOT SALT DOME.png
City
What makes ice so dangerous?
Ice storms in SC have caused widespread damage in the past, and as we brace for winter weather, we spoke to a meteorologist to find out why.
January 22, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
The Lantern.png
City
New boutique hotel opens in historic fire station in the Vista
The 59-room Lantern Columbia opens inside the former fire station as the Vista continues evolving.
January 21, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Black Dog Pizza_Lynn Luc_2.JPEG
Take a look at Black Dog Pizza
Black Dog Pizza is expected to open in late January on Main Street underneath The Hendrix.
January 20, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Grace Potter - Credit_James Mountford 5.jpg
Entertainment
St. Pat’s in Five Points announces 2026 lineup
Get to know the musical lineup that will keep you entertained at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day in Five Points Festival, the largest one-day fest in South Carolina.
January 20, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Broader Bookshelf.jpeg
Broaden your bookshelf in 2026
Find your next great read when you join Richland Library’s Broader Bookshelf Reading Challenge.
January 16, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Admiral Radio Mardi Gras Large.png
Mardi Gras Columbia brings 19 local bands to City Roots
The 16th annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival features 19 local bands across three stages, plus a parade, food vendors, and craft beer.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Experience Cola 2026 ambassadors.png
City
Meet Experience Columbia SC’s 2026 ambassadors
Experience Columbia SC introduces its 2026 ambassadors, highlighting locals shaping how visitors experience the Midlands.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
MLK Five Points - DStringer.JPG
Events
Ways to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.'s presence in Columbia and how to commemorate his life and legacy on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer