The City of Columbia Public Works Department is set to host a third public meeting to discuss the Ash Street Improvement Project, offering residents a chance to review preliminary plans and engage with project staff. This meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC), located at 1701 W. Ash Street.
This informal open house meeting will display preliminary plans for the Ash Street improvements, allowing the public to view the proposed changes and understand the project’s scope. City staff will be available to answer questions and provide detailed information. Attendees will also have the opportunity to submit comments and feedback via available forms.
The Ash Street improvement project is a direct result of the quarter-cent sales tax proposition passed in August 2015. This proposition allocated specific funds for crucial capital improvements, with a focus on street and sidewalk maintenance throughout the city. The current project targets Ash Street between Clinkscales Road and First Street, aiming to enhance safety and accessibility for all users.
Key improvements planned for Ash Street include the construction of an 8-foot wide sidewalk along the north side of Ash Street. This wider sidewalk is designed to comfortably accommodate both pedestrians and bicyclists, promoting shared-use pathways. On the south side of Ash Street, the project will address existing sidewalk gaps by constructing a 5-foot wide sidewalk, ensuring continuous pedestrian access. Furthermore, a dedicated bike lane is incorporated into the design, running continuously along the south side of Ash Street to improve cyclist safety. To further enhance pedestrian safety, particularly at busy intersections, the design includes new crosswalks equipped with flashing beacons at the intersections of Redwood Road, Anderson Avenue, and Alexander Avenue.
For those seeking more detailed information prior to the meeting, related documents are accessible in the Documents section of the Public Works website. While construction is tentatively slated to begin as early as summer 2026, the project timeline indicates a more likely commencement in spring 2027. This meeting serves as a vital opportunity for the community to stay informed and contribute to the development of the Ash Street improvement project.
