Columbia's Vista: A Neighborhood on the Move

The Vista, a lively neighborhood in Columbia, is set for another big change. This area, which runs from Gervais Street to the Congaree River, has seen many transformations. It started as an industrial hub, then became an arts district, and now it's known for its nightlife and entertainment. Back in the day, the Vista was a mix of cultures and races. It had unpaved roads, warehouses, and railroad facilities. The nearby Ward One neighborhood was home to successful Black-owned businesses, community schools, and working-class families. But as industries declined, the area became empty and run-down. The Ward One neighborhood was demolished to make way for the University of South Carolina’s campus. The Vista's growth started when local artists moved in. They turned old industrial buildings into art studios and created events like Vista Lights. Soon, infrastructure improved, and new hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars opened. Today, the Vista is one of the city’s top entertainment districts.More changes are coming. A new mixed-use development, the Seaboard Vista, is planned for 2025. It will include upscale apartments, retail, and office space in historic railroad buildings. The reopening of Finlay Park has also added a new attraction nearby. The city is planning a massive riverfront park, a project that's been in the works for decades. This park could bring even more visitors to the Vista. New hotels, apartments, and student housing complexes are already popping up along Huger Street. On the other end of the district, a 27-story apartment tower is planned for Main Street. But not everyone is excited about the changes. Some full-time residents worry that leaders aren't considering the impact of all these new developments. They want to make sure the Vista keeps its unique character and doesn't become just another generic neighborhood. The Vista has always played a role in Columbia's history. It was an industrial zone when the city focused on manufacturing and became an entertainment district when artists needed affordable spaces. Now, it's poised to become a hub for even more growth and development.