Revitalizing Finlay Park

(WOLO) COLUMBIA,S.C., — ” It’s such a nice place. it’s right in the middle of the City. it’s just a great.” But some City officials and residents alike think the public space has the potential to be even greater. Park designers with Civitas beat out 5 other companies chosen to find new ways to make the area more active, and safer so it can be utilized even more. who better to answer how to accomplish that then residents who remember it during it’s days of old. “Feedback from the community is fundamental to all that we design. people know this place and know what it means to them more than we could ever learn if we didn’t ask them.” Armed with green and red stickers, residents were able to mark ideas they like or disliked with corresponding colors, giving designers a gauge on how to improve the park without harming it’s structural and historical integrity. At the same time working to eliminate elements that are less attractive to some who may otherwise visit the space. ” The more people we can attract to the park for appropriate use the less likelihood there is that we are going to have those inappropriate behaviors taking place.” But even with issues like homelessness, structural failings original construction issues and an outdated and in some cases contaminated water system being resolved, there are other problems that will still need to be fixed to create an even playing field. ” It’s an unusual place, very unique and very special but so much of the activity is on a hillside, and that’s not the norm. usually when you think of a park you think of a flatter space and that creates inherent accessibility challenges we will need to address.” Because the park was built in the early 90’s the same year the ADA requirements were introduced regarding the physically challenged – parks and rec says the facility was outdated from the beginning….and now is a chance to right that wrong. Designers hope to have a plan to present to City council members by late November. If you would like to weigh in and tell design officials you suggestions for the future of Finlay Park go to: ColumbiaSC.net until October 31st to submit your ideas.