Columbia leaders seek public input on city’s future plans [Video]

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Over the years, the City of Columbia has adopted a series of strategic plans for directing the growth and development of downtown. Twenty five years ago it was the City Center Master Plan that pretty much redefined The Vista with the relocation of railroad tracks, guidelines for converting former warehouses into retail businesses, and the redevelopment of the former Central Correctional Institution (CCI) as CanalSide. Fifteen years ago, the Innovista Master Plan was adopted in partnership with the University of South Carolina that included plans for 500 acres of mixed use development, including a large green space and creation of Three Rivers Greenway.

Now, as the City approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, city leaders are asking the public for ideas of what Columbia could become. 

Two public open house drop-in sessionshave been scheduled for August 1 …