Jt-frnm
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
JANUARY 2018
www.epa.gov/smartgrowth
ROCKY BRANCH G REIN WAY
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

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BACKGROUND
GREENING AMERICA'S COMMUNITIES
Greening America's Communities is an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program to help cities and towns develop an implementable vision of environmentally friendly neighborhoods
that incorporate innovative green infrastructure and other sustainable design strategies. EPA provides design assistance to help support sustainable communities that protect the
environment, economy, and public health and to inspire local and state leaders to expand this work elsewhere.
Greening America's Communities will help communities consider ways to incorporate sustainable design strategies into their planning and development to create and enhance interesting,
distinctive neighborhoods that have multiple social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Columbia, South Carolina, was chosen in 2016 as one of six communities to receive this assistance along with Brownsville, Texas; Honolulu, Hawaii; Multnomah County,
Oregon; Muscatine, Iowa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
More information is available at: https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/greening-americas-communities
GREENING AMERICA'S COMMUNITIES
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
FEDERAL PARTNERS
Melissa Kramer, EPA Office of Sustainable Communities
Rafaela Moura, EPA Region 4 (Atlanta)
Bryan Hummel, EPA Region 4 (Atlanta)
Yolanda Morris, Federal Highway Administration (South Carolina)
LOCAL TEAM
Krista Hampton, City of Columbia Planning & Development Services, Director
John Fellows, City of Columbia Planning & Development Services, Planning Administrator
Leigh DeForth, City of Columbia Planning & Development Services, Comprehensive Planner
Dana Higgins, City of Columbia, City Engineer
Mike Jaspers, City of Columbia, Stormwater Program Manager
Robert Pratt, Richland Penny Tax for Transportation
Autumn Perkins, Sustainable Midlands/Rocky Branch Watershed Alliance
Bob Guild, Granby resident
Vi Hendley, Olympia resident
CONSULTANTS
Darren Meyer, MKSK
Brett Kordenbrock, MKSK
Donald Zellefrow, MKSK
Haoting Shi, MKSK
Parks McLeod, Mcleod Landscape Architects
Russell Smoak, McLeod Landscape Architects
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ROCKY BRANCH GREENWAY, COLUMBIA, SC

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
i - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1	- INTRODUCTION
2	- WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
3	- EXISTING CONDITIONS
9 - DESIGN OPTIONS
27 - NEXT STEPS
31 - APPENDIX
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The city of Columbia, South Carolina, received assistance from EPA's Greening America's Communities program to visualize potential improvements to a city-owned parcel of land along the
Rocky Branch, which runs east-west from the Five Points district in downtown to the Congaree River. This project fits into the larger vision for Columbia's Rocky Branch Greenway and is one of
the last remaining stands of canopy trees and space for recreational use in the Capital City Mill District. EPA contracted landscape architects and designers from McLeod Landscape Architects
and MKSK Studios to guide the city in the development of concepts based on the goals of the city and the desires of the public. The design and consultation process included a three-day
workshop in Columbia with federal, state, county, and city staff; local property owners; residents; local developers and designers; and other stakeholders.
This report illustrates the existing site conditions and potential design strategies for five selected areas within. Each of these areas has its own set of challenges such as polluted stormwater
runoff, excessive flooding, and demolition debris accumulation. Workshop participants expressed the desire to improve access to the site so people could enjoy a quiet, natural area within
the city; reduce flooding concerns; and link the site to a wider greenway network planned in the city. Design options include green infrastructure such as new street trees and bioswales that
can reduce runoff volume and filter it as it percolates into the ground water. Ideas for the restoration of the eroded banks of Rocky Branch and the installation of public gathering areas for
relaxation and learning are also depicted. The city of Columbia, working with its partners and stakeholders, could use the designs and implementation options to guide a revitalization of the
Rocky Branch parcel to create an attractive setting for recreational activities, commuting, and learning.
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INTRODUCTION
As demand in the city center grows and the University of South Carolina expands, development pressure is building on surrounding neighborhoods, including the Capital City Mill District,
located just over 1 mile south of the South Carolina State House. The historic textile mills that once served as the heart of the neighborhood are being reborn as housing and commercial
development, offering restaurants and other amenities previously absent from the area. However, despite the new development, the area still has few transportation options, traffic
congestion, and many vacant and blighted properties. Flooding of the Rocky Branch is a particularly acute issue in need of attention, as it runs through the heart of the area.
The Rocky Branch is part of the Congaree Watershed, and its lower stretch runs through the Capital City Mill District. Its current state, defined by eroded banks, debris, pollution, and
environmental degradation, negatively impacts adjacent land value and the public's perception of this natural resource. However, residents believe a revitalized Rocky Branch could serve
as a catalyst for the area, providing environmental, public health, and community benefits.
Recognizing the potential of the Rocky Branch, the city of Columbia, South Carolina, applied for technical assistance through the EPA's Greening America's Communities program in 2016.
The city requested assistance in developing a community vision for a greenway along the Rocky Branch, specifically looking at an 8.5-acre, city-owned parcel between Bluff Road and the
former Capital City Stadium. The city's goals include: addressing flooding, improving water quality in the Congaree River, improving bicycle and pedestrian connections, connecting to a
larger planned greenway network, and creating a neighborhood amenity that helps spur additional neighborhood revitalization.
The vision for the Rocky Branch greenway will complement a host of related projects, increasing its potential for success. These projects include: an area planning study for the Capital
City Mill District, conducted by the city of Columbia and Richland County: redevelopment of the former Capital City Stadium: the Rocky Branch Watershed Assessment, recently completed
by the city:1 and the Richland County penny sales tax for transportation, including an earmark for the Rocky Branch Greenway.
EPA put together a team of federal agency staff and hired landscape architects from McLeod Landscape Architects and MKSK Studios to help the city develop concepts synthesizing the
work done to date, the goals of the city, and the desires of the public. The work on the following pages illustrates this collective vision.
'McCormick Taylor and KCI Technologies. Rocky Branch Watershed Assessment. City of Columbia. 201 6.
https://www.columbiasc.net/depts/utilities-engineering/docs/sw/watershedplans/ws-plan-rocky-branch-201 6-may20.pdf.
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WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
The city of Columbia hosted a three-day design workshop from July 11 to 13, 201 7 near the Rocky Branch site. Attendees included representatives from federal, state, county, and city
staff; local property owners; residents; local developers and designers; and other stakeholders. The project team presented on-site findings, analysis, and preliminary design work
done prior to the workshop for five separate areas determined to have the most impact on the potential development of the Rocky Branch parcel. Each of the five areas was the subject
of a one-hour focus group. Attendees openly shared their thoughts and concerns regarding site improvements for the individual areas and how they relate to one another. Participants
discussed the history of accumulated demolition debris on the site and resulting environmental and watershed impacts. They shared ideas for potential site improvements that could
make the area a natural amenity given the limitations on development due to being located in a flood zone. Attendees also discussed the need for better pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle
access to the site from the surrounding community. Focus groups explored possible implementation strategies and sources of funding.
The community members expressed the importance of the subject parcel being a key component in the Rocky Branch Greenway. They would like to see the site become an entry point to
the trail system as well as a destination for pedestrians and cyclists from other areas in the city. Public safety and security are of particular importance for the site and connecting trails.
Recognizing this site as one of the few wooded parcels remaining along the Greenway, focus group attendees were passionate about the utmost care being taken to preserve the natural
beauty of the site.
With comments and input from the participants in-hand, the design team then moved into a work session to incorporate the information and returned the next day with a revised, more
detailed concept that reflected community priorities and goals. On the final day of the workshop, a public open house was held allowing all interested parties to view the resulting design
options.
FIGURE 1. WORKSHOP PHOTO
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FIGURE 2. WORKSHOP PHOTO

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EXISTING
CONDITIONS
CONTEXT
Nestled in the heart of the Capital City Mill District, the
Rocky Branch site is within walking distance to downtown
Columbia, the University of South Carolina campus, and
the Congaree River corridor. The city's proposed Rocky
Branch Greenway would enhance pedestrian and bicycle
connectivity to the site from the Congaree River to north
of the University of South Carolina's campus, while
Assembly Street serves as the site's primary vehicular
connection to downtown and beyond. Parks and open
space are sparse in the surrounding area, particularly to
the south where large industrial tracts of land dominate
the landscape. Olympia Park lies just to the west of the
site but is separated by a raised and abandoned railroad
berm. The site is the largest open space with significant
tree canopy within the Rocky Branch sub-watershed.
—	PROPOSED ROCKY BRANCH GREENWAY
—	—	ROCKY BRANCH GREENWAY ALTERNATIVE ROUTE
—	CITY LIMITS
^¦1	ROCKY BRANCH
PROJECT SITE f
CAPITAL CITY
MILL DISTRICT
FIGURE 3. EXISTING CONDITION
* NORTH
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CONNECTIVITY
Currently it is hard to see into or travel through the site
because of dense vegetation, it is also hard to get to the
site because no sidewalks or other paths provide direct
access from adjacent streets. Access to the site by transit
is limited to only two bus stops located along Assembly
Street north of its intersection with Dreyfus Road. An
elevated railroad berm to the west of the site makes direct
pedestrian connections to Olympia Park challenging. Plans
to better connect the site with its surroundings include
the Rocky Branch Greenway and a series of streetscape
improvements to Assembly, Lincoln, and Heyward streets.
These projects will receive funding through a Penny Tax
levy passed by Richland County.
BUS ROUTE
—	STREETS
—	— UNUSED RAIL RIGHT OF WAY
—-« RAIL LINE
)	( CULVERT
ROCKY BRANCH
BUS STOP
PROPOSED GREENWAY
PROPOSED BIKEWAY
PROPOSED SIDEWALK
SIDEWALKS
I
m
PROJECT SITE
r
¥


N.
FIGURE 4. EXISTING CONNECTIVITY
* NORTH
I
150'
300
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CURRENT LAND USE
The Rocky Branch site is publicly owned and currently sits
vacant. Large swaths of vacant land occupy the western
and northern edges of the site, while residential uses are
to the south. The former Capital City Stadium anchors the
eastern edge of the site on city-owned property, though it is
currently out of operation.
FIGURE 5. EXISTING LAND USE
* NORTH 	
0'	150' 300'
= PARCEL
PUBLICLY OWNED PARCELS
RESIDENTIAL
RECREATIONAL
INSTITUTIONAL
COMMERCIAL
VACANT
)«( CULVERT
ROCKY BRANCH
'
PROJECT SITE
projecT
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UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The Rocky Branch site contains a complex network of
infrastructure. Overhead power lines crisscross the
site, traversing its eastern and western edges while an
overhead line and easement runs through the southern
half from east to west, A sanitary sewer line and easement
bisects the site (east to west) while another follows along
the site's northwestern boundary. The city plans to realign
the northwestern sanitary sewer line so that it more
closely follows the course of the Rocky Branch as it passes
through the site. Stream culverts are located at the edges
of the site where the Rocky Branch flows under Bluff Road
and Dreyfus Road, Stormwater outlets dot the edges of the
site and Rocky Branch, though some have been abandoned
while others continue to carry water from adjacent
properties. An abandoned building and storm drain system
sit at the southeastern edge of the site.
_ _ PROPOSED SANITARY	/s.
— SEWER ALIGNMENT	W
- SANITARY SEWER PROPOSED TO ||S>
BE REALIGNED
SANITARY SEWER	¦
SANITARY SEWER EASEMENT
STORM DRAIN CONCRETE TOP H3
BUILDING FOOTPRINT
)	( CULVERT
ROCKY BRANCH	===
WELL
SANITARY SEWER MANHOLE
SANITARY SEWER CLEAN OUT
POWER POLE
CATCH BASIN
OVERHEAD POWER LINE
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
DRAINAGE CHANNEL
PROJECT SITE
FIGURE 6. EXISTING UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
* NORTH
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LANDSCAPE FEATURES
Vegetated cover within the Rocky Branch site is dense and
largely consists of kudzu, privet, and other invasive species,
though several trees of significant size and stature dot
the site. Clearings within the canopy tend to occur along
utility lines and in areas where there has been recent
infrastructure work. The Rocky Branch channel itself is
heavily incised and channelized, with construction debris
and other trash lining its edges. Wetlands surround the
Rocky Branch with the largest being at the low point in the
southeastern corner of the site.
FIGURE 7. EXISTING SITE PHOTO
= = 2 FT CONTOURS
O SIGNIFICANT TREE	TREE CANOPY
IBBM WETLAND	)	( CULVERT
GROUND COVER	ROCKY BRANCH
PROJECT SITE
project
FIGURE 8. EXISTING LANDSCAPE FEATURES
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FLOOD RISK
The Rocky Branch bisects the site flowing east to west
toward the Congaree River. Prone to flooding, the entire
site lies within a FEMA flood hazard area, though FEMA
is currently updating flood designations for the area.
The high point of the site is at the southwest corner
(elevation '16 feet) with approximately 1 7 feet of change
to the low point at the Bluff Road culvert. Multiple storm
sewers introduce off-site water from adjacent streets and
commercial and industrial land to the Rocky Branch on
this site. These sewers funnel water from the surrounding
area into a smaller, confined space, increasing the rate
of flow to and through the site, intensifying flooding, and
degrading the structural and biological health of the Rocky
Branch.
= = CONTOUR 2FT
CATCH BASIN
@) WELL
1388861 WETLAND
—	— DRAINAGE CHANNEL
—	STORM SEWER
STORM DRAIN CONCRETE TOP
FLOOD HAZARD AREA
)--( CULVERT
ROCKY BRANCH
PROJECT SITE
FIGURE 9. EXISTING FLOOD RISK
* NORTH
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DESIGN OPTIONS
SCHEMATIC SITE PLAN
The vision for the new park is a quiet respite that preserves,
enhances, and highlights the site's natural features while
responding to residents' desire for public access and places
for gathering, recreation, and education. A network of paths
and trails allows visitors to access and explore the site. To
the north of the Rocky Branch, a paved multi-use trail follows
the path of a proposed sanitary sewer re-alignment to enable
concurrent construction that would minimize disturbance
and costs, A system of secondary paths links visitors
to gathering spaces that showcase the natural features
of the site, while improving linkages to the surrounding
neighborhood. The Appendix highlights two case studies of
other communities that have similarly turned neglected sites
into parkland.
FIGURE 10. EXISTING CONDITIONS	FIGURE 1 1. SCHEMATIC PLAN	1 I I I 1
* NORTH 	
0'	100' 200'
AREA.,

.AREA
LEGEND
A.	ASSEMBLY STREET CONNECTION
B.	ROCKY BRANCH GREENWAY
C.	COMMUNITY GATHERING AREA
D.	SIDEWALK CONNECTION
E.	ROCKY BRANCH RESTORATION
F.	ROCKY BRANCH CROSSING
G.	WETLAND
H.	WETLAND OVERLOOK
I.	BLUFF ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
J. BLUFF ROAD CROSSING AND
ACCESS TO OLYMPIA PARK (TBD)
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AREA 01
WETLAND OVERLOOK
Participants in the workshop expressed a desire for better
access to the park while still retaining its natural features
and creating opportunities to educate visitors about
its ecological value. In response, the Wetland Overlook
design option improves access to the existing wetland and
enhances how well it functions. By replacing invasive plants
with native plant species such as yellow root and sedges,
the existing wetland can better clean and filter water of
pollutants and provide animal habitat. While mostly dry, the
wetland will be periodically inundated during heavy rains.
A new sidewalk along the east side of Bluff Road improves
pedestrian safety and access to the greenway and park. A
new overlook along Bluff Road creates space for viewing
the wetland, educational signage, and environmental art.
The boardwalk allows access to the wetland so visitors can
explore and learn.
FIGURE 12. AREA 01 SCHEMATIC PLAN
* NORTH
o*
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TO DREYFUS ROAD

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AREA 01
WETLAND OVERLOOK
FIGURE 13. AREA 01 EXISTING CONDITION
The wetlands on site lack the diversity of plant species necessary for a healthy ecosystem. The lack of paths severely limits access into and through the site.
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AREA 01
WETLAND OVERLOOK
FIGURE 14. AREA 01 PROPOSED CONDITION
The Wetland Overlook provides access to and enhancement of this natural system. Educational signage informs visitors of the ecological value of the wetlands and the benefits of their
preservation.
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AREA 01
WETLAND OVERLOOK
WETLAND ENVIRONMENT	BOARDWALK
FIGURE 1 5. AREA 01 SECTION
WETLAND
OVERLOOK
PROPOSED BLUFF ROAD
SIDEWALK
The section illustrates the proposed condition just north of the intersection of Bluff Road and Florida Street. The addition
of a sidewalk along the east side of Bluff Road improves pedestrian safety and access to the greenway and park, while a
new overlook creates space for viewing the wetland, educational signage, and environmental art. A boardwalk provides
access to the wetland.
FIGURE 16. AREA 01 PLAN ENLARGEMENT
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AREA 02
STREAM CROSSING
The Stream Crossing design option features a bridge as an
architectural focal point along the greenway and addresses
workshop participants' desire for improved access through
the site. The crossing provides a place for fishing and play
in the water after water quality improves. The design of
the bridge is to be compatible with the larger park and
greenway system and appropriate to the naturalized setting.
It would be ADA accessible and feature interpretive signage.
The crossing and secondary paths could be phased in as
funding becomes available.
FIGURE 17. AREA 02 SCHEMATIC PLAN	1 I I I 1
* NORTH 	
0'	40'
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AREA 02
STREAM CROSSING
FIGURE 18. AREA 02 EXISTING CONDITION
The Rocky Branch channel is heavily incised and channelized, with construction debris and other trash lining its edges. No opportunities to access or cross the Rocky Branch currently
exist.
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AREA 02
STREAM CROSSING
FIGURE 19. AREA 02 PROPOSED CONDITION
The Stream Crossing proposes an architectural focal point along the Rocky Branch Greenway that improves access within the site and enables exploration of adjacent preserved wooded
areas.
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AREA 03
ROCKY BRANCH RESTORATION
A variety of restoration techniques could improve the
site's ecological and recreational value, in-channel
improvements could stabilize the banks of the Rocky
Branch, create aquatic habitat, and relieve localized flow
impediments. Improvements include "benching" the
channel, or widening the channel with stepped benches
to increase the channel's capacity, which slows down the
water and reduces erosion. Increasing the capacity of
the channel also reduces flooding hazards, which are a
major concern for residents of the area. The benches can
be planted to further help stabilize the banks and create
terrestrial habitat. Other improvements include preserving
mature trees and existing native vegetation while
removing underbrush and invasive plant species.
FIGURE 20. AREA 03 SCHEMATIC PLAN	1 I I I 1
* NORTH 	
0'	40'
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AREA 03
ROCKY BRANCH RESTORATION
FIGURE 21. AREA 03 EXISTING CONDITION
Degraded riparian zone vegetation and high flow rates are severely eroding the stream banks, putting more sediment into the water and degrading both water quality and habitat.
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AREA 03
ROCKY BRANCH RESTORATION
FIGURE 22. AREA 03 PROPOSED CONDITION
Widening the stream channel will improve public access to the water's edge and reduce the flooding issues, which are a constant concern of the community.
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AREA 04
GATHERING AREA
Workshop participants said they would like a place for
people to spend time in the park. To address this need,
the Gathering Area design option provides space for
small community gatherings, natural play, environmental
education, and a comfortable resting point for those
traveling along the Greenway or simply taking a stroll
through the site. The creative re-use of site-salvaged
debris defines the character of this space, with large
concrete slabs doubling as retaining walls and seating
areas, while natural elements create areas for play.
FIGURE 23. AREA 04 SCHEMATIC PLAN	1 I I I 1
* NORTH 	
0'	40'
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AREA 04
GATHERING AREA
FIGURE 24. AREA 04 EXISTING CONDITION
Currently the site is overgrown with invasive plant species and lacks tree cover.
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AREA 04
GATHERING AREA
FIGURE 25. AREA 04 PROPOSED CONDITION
The once overgrown site is changed into a comfortable, shaded gathering space where old debris is turned into attractive and fun elements.
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AREA 05
NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION
The intersection of Assembty Street and Dreyfus Road is
the primary access point to the site. Workshop participants
thought that this intersection could be improved to better
connect the site with the surrounding neighborhood. The
Neighborhood Connection design option realigns Dreyfus
Road at Assembty Street to a three-way "T" intersection
that woutd improve pedestrian and cyctist safety by
reducing pedestrian crossing distances and stowing down
turning cars. A 1 4-foot wide shared-use path is located
along Assembly Street and aligns with planned bicycle and
pedestrian improvements of the Richland Penny Program
along Assembly Street. This path connects to a 1 4-foot wide
shared-use trail (adhering to the City of Columbia Greenway
Standards) along Dreyfus Road that provides access to the
site. The development of the trail along Dreyfus Road will
require coordination with the future private redevelopment of
the Capital City Stadium site. Planted areas along Assembly
Street and Dreyfus Road capture and treat runoff while
beautifying the streetscape. Public art at the intersection and
along the greenway enhances the identity of the area.
FIGURE 26. AREA 05 EXISTING CONDITION
FIGURE 27. AREA 05 SCHEMATIC PLAN
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AREA 05
NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION
FIGURE 28. AREA 05 EXISTING CONDITION
The intersection of Dr eyfus Road and Assembly Street completely lacks pedestrian or cycle facilities. Due to the angle at which Dreyfus Road intersects Assembly Street, crossing
distances at this corner are abnormally long making traversing this intersection not only uncomfortable but also dangerous for a pedestrian or cyclist.
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V
AREA 05
NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION
FIGURE 29. AREA 05 PROPOSED CONDITION
The Neighborhood Connection greatly improves pedestrian and bicycle access to the park. New planted areas collect and treat stormwater runoff while beautifying the streetscape. New
trees provide much-needed shade.
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AREA 05
NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION
ROCKY BRANCH PLANTED
DREYFUS ROAD
PLANTED PROPOSED
GREENWAY
AREA SIDEWALK
FIGURE 30. AREA 05 SECTION
The section illustrates the proposed condition just west of the intersection of the Rocky Branch and Dreyfus Road. This
point serves as a gateway to the park and includes wayfinding signage to inform visitors of the site's offerings, situate
them within the larger greenway system, and enhance the identity of the area. Planted areas along Dreyfus Road treat
runoff while beautifying the streetscape and providing shade through the planting of street trees where space allows.
In narrower sections, shorter vegetation could be planted to function as a bioswale that absorbs stormwater while
providing a visually appealing buffer between pedestrians and the street. A 1 4-foot wide shared-use trail continues from
the property along the southern side of Dreyfus Road to Assembly Street and beyond, while an 8-foot sidewalk lines the
northern side of Dreyfus.
FIGURE 31. AREA 05 PLAN ENLARGEMENT
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NEXT STEPS
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
The design options presented in this report hold great
potential to spur interest and investment in the Capital City
Mill District. The range of strategies and elements require
different levels of time and investment allowing for the
project to be implemented in phases as resources allow.
This section discusses potential near-, mid-, and long-
term steps, key community partners, and funding sources
that could help the city of Columbia and the Capital City
Mill District achieve its goals.
NEAR TERM STEPS (ONE TO THREE YEARS)
Create a maintenance plan that includes removal of
invasive species (including but not limited to kudzu, privet,
and English ivy) and clearing of overly dense understory
plantings across the entirety of the site as part of a
long-term plan that would restore and maintain the site's
ecological function. The city or county government in
conjunction with an organization such as the Rocky Branch
Watershed Alliance could undertake this task.
Diversify and preserve native vegetation across the site.
This would follow the removal of invasives and overly
dense understory plantings. The maintenance plan
mentioned above could address the care and cultivation
of native plant species. The city or county government
in conjunction with an organization such as Sustainable
Midlands could undertake this task.
Improve the Rocky Branch channel. Strategies include
but are not limited to sculpting and benching within the
active floodplain to reduce flow velocities, erosion, and
sedimentation, along with the establishing native riparian
vegetation for bank stabilization and habitat.
Construct a 1 4-foot wide shared-use trail adhering to the
City of Columbia Greenway Standards following the path of
a proposed sanitary sewer re-alignment to the north of the
Rocky Branch to minimize disturbance and costs. Richland
County and the City of Columbia could construct this
segment as part of the Richland County Penny Tax "Rocky
Branch Greenway" project.
Construct a sidewalk along the east side of Bluff Road,
improving pedestrian safety and access to the site.
Construct an overlook along Bluff Road at the existing
wetland (near the intersection of Bluff Road and Florida
Street) and a boardwalk providing access to the wetland,
including interpretive signage, wayfinding, and seating.
Construct a gathering area for natural play, education,
nature viewing, and small community events that re-uses
site-salvaged debris.
Incorporate public art throughout the site and
neighborhood, leveraging existing city initiatives, art
organizations, and community groups.
Construct a 1 4-foot wide shared-use trail adhering to the
City of Columbia Greenway Standards along the southern
side of Assembly Street. The Richland County Penny Tax
calls for both a "shared-use path" from the railroad tracks
north of the Assembly Street-Dreyfus Road intersection
to Rosewood Drive and a "multi-use path" from Whaley
Street to Rosewood Drive. Richland County and the city of
Columbia would coordinate on this project.
Construct a 1 4-foot wide shared-use trail adhering to the
City of Columbia Greenway Standards along the southern
side of Dreyfus Road. This segment could be constructed
as a part of the Richland County Penny Tax "Rocky Branch
Greenway" project. Richland County and the city of
Columbia would coordinate on this project.
MID-TERM STEPS (THREE TO FIVE YEARS)
Construct a network of paths and trails providing access
to the site and improving linkages to the surrounding
neighborhood. Three connections along Bluff Road,
one connection at Dreyfus Road, and one connection at
the Capital City Stadium site are included in the design
proposal in this report.
Construct a pedestrian bridge compatible with the
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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
larger park and greenway system and appropriate to the
naturalized setting.
Realign Dreyfus Road at Assembly Street from a "Y" style
intersection to a "T," improving pedestrian and cyclist
safety by reducing crossing distances and vehicular speed.
This realignment would include the addition of pedestrian
safety features (crosswalk, bollards, signage, detection
strips) and new vehicular stop signs and traffic control
measures. Several governmental entities (the city of
Columbia and Richland County) would need to collaborate,
building on transportation improvement projects proposed
as part of the Richland County Penny Tax.
Incorporate green infrastructure along Dreyfus Road and
Assembly Street, including but not limited to, stormwater
infiltration basins and the addition of street trees.
LONG-TERM STEPS (FIVE TO TEN YEARS)
Explore strategies and partnerships for the redevelopment
of vacant parcels and repair of existing structures
surrounding the Rocky Branch site.
Explore strategies for the deployment of green
infrastructure best management practices at a district-
wide scale to reduce the volume and improve the quality of
the stormwater entering the Rocky Branch.
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FUNDING SOURCES
NATIONAL
The EPA 319 Grant Program for States and Territories is
aimed at providing money for a wide variety of activities
including technical assistance, financial assistance,
education, training, technology transfer, demonstration
projects and monitoring to assess the success of specific
nonpoint source implementation projects. The South
Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
assists in the administration of EPA 319 funds.
https://www.epa.gov/nps/31 9-grant-program-states-and-
territories
The EPA Urban Waters Small Grant program administers
small grants used to help protect and restore urban
waters, improve water quality, and support community
revitalization and other local priorities.
https://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/urban-waters-small-
grants
The United States Department of Agriculture Conservation
Reserve Program offers financial incentives for a
variety of issues from floodplain wetland conservation
and enhancement to honey bee habitat restoration and
enhancement.
https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/
conservation-programs/conservation-reserve-program/
index
The National Environmental Education Foundation offers
small Every Day Event Grants to Friends Groups to hold
events that are educational, recreational, health-oriented,
and/or volunteer based. Every Day Capacity Building
grants are also available to nonprofit organizations to help
strengthen their activities to preserve public lands and
public lands with public land agencies.
https://www.neefusa.org/grants
The Federal Highway Administration coordinates the
allocation of Transportation Alternatives Program funds
through the South Carolina Department of Transportation
and the Central Midlands Council of Governments. This
funding requires a 40% match and can apply to pedestrian
and bicyclist connectivity projects.
https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/transportation_
alternatives/
STATE
The South Carolina Department of Health and
Environmental Control administers the Clean Water State
Revolving Fund, which provides low-interest rate loans
for building or repair to wastewater plants or distribution
systems and stormwater quality improvement projects.
Municipalities, counties, and special purpose districts can
apply for an SRF loan.
http://www.scdhec.gov/srf/
The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and
Tourism administers several relevant grant programs
including the Park and Recreation Development Fund (a
matching grant program used by local communities to
build parks) and the Recreation Trails Program (which
assists communities with meeting public demand for
recreational trails).
https://www.scprt.com/grants
The South Carolina Department of Transportation
may be able to provide funding as part of their Bicycle
and Pedestrian Program. The program aims to meet
the on-going challenge of providing better and safer
accommodations for people who choose to walk or cycle.
http://www.scdot.org/getting/bikePed.aspx
LOCAL
The Richland County Conservation Commission provides a
Community Conservation Grant program for neighborhood
groups, organizations, and agencies to protect natural
resources, improve water quality and enhance active living
through trails. Innovative solutions such as low-impact
development or green infrastructure activities are eligible
as are educational programs that promote conservation
and environmental awareness in Richland County.
http://www.richlandonline.com/Government/
Commissions/ConservationCommission/Conservation/
CommunityConservationGrants.aspx
The Richland County Transportation Penny Tax is providing
funds for several projects in the area including the Smith/
Rocky Branch C Greenway, Assembly Street Sidewalk, and
Assembly Street Bikeways.
http://www.richlandpenny.com/
The Columbia Development Corporation used brownfields
funding to purchase the Rocky Branch site. Seed money
could be used to target buildings along Dreyfus Road and
address adjacent properties.
https://columbiasc.gov/cdc
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FUNDING SOURCES
The City of Columbia's Stormwater Bond could offer
financial support.
http://www.columbiasc.net/stormwater
The philanthropic community in the region could be
leveraged for support.
The city could also explore the formation of public-private
partnerships to fund the project, especially in connection
with redevelopment of the city-owned Capital City Stadium
site.
The local community could be engaged in regular cleanup
efforts.
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APPENDIX
SCIOTO AODOBON METRO PARK
LOCATION
Columbus, Ohio
DESIGNER
MKSK Studios
OVERVIEW
"The vision for this unique urban park space included
wetland habitat restoration and establishing a living
laboratory within an integrated educational environment." -
MKSK
Scioto Audubon Metro Park provides an important case
study for strategies to develop the Rocky Branch site into
a passive, ecologically rich public space. Located just
outside of the heart of downtown, this 75-acre reclaimed
brownfield site is home to a diverse range of riverine
environments, from restored natural wetlands to prairie
areas. Visitors to the site can experience and engage
with these dynamic natural systems along an extensive
network of walking trails, wetland boardwalks, and bike
paths. This circulation system is integrated into large
regional and local pedestrian and bike networks ensuring
easy access to the host of offerings and amenities the
surrounding communities have to offer. A comprehensive
wayfinding and signage strategy highlights to visitors
the hidden natural systems at play and ensures easy
navigation to, from, and within the site.
FIGURE 32. SCIOTO PARK TRAIL
FIGURE 33. SCIOTO PARK WETLAND BOARDWALK
FIGURE 34. SCIOTO PARK OVERLOOK DECK
Images Courtesy of MKSK Studios
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RENAISSANCE PARK
LOCATION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
DESIGNER
Hargreaves Associates
OVERVIEW
"Renaissance Park provides a canvas for social engagement,
healthy lifestyles, and environmental education, leveraging
ecosystem services of preserved flood plain forest, meadow
plantings and a constructed wetland that treats site
stormwater and increases floodplain storage capacity." -
Hargreaves Associates
A piece of the larger Tennessee River Park and the final
phase of Chattanooga's 21 st Century Waterfront Master
Plan, Renaissance park illustrates the integration of
natural ecosystems and public recreational space within
an urban environment. Located just across the river from
downtown, the project transformed a contaminated post-
industrial site into a vibrant park, blending floodplain,
forest, native meadow, and constructed wetlands
with communal spaces of various scales. The use of
preservation areas and native plantings reduced the
park's construction and maintenance costs while allowing
visitors the opportunity to engage with nature and place
unlike any other part of the Chattanooga riverfront.
The project's attention to preservation and adaptive
management strategies, along with the thoughtful
combination of green infrastructure and public space
make this a prime example of what could be accomplished
on the Rocky Branch site.
FIGURE 35. RENAISSANCE PARK WETLAND
FIGURE 36. RENAISSANCE PARK WETLAND	FIGURE 37. RENAISSANCE PARK WETLAND
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Images Courtesy of MKSK Studios

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Smart Growth
GREENING AMERICA'S
COMMUNITIES

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