The City of Columbia celebrated the Grand Re-Opening of Finlay Park on November 15, marking the completion of a major revitalization project that restores one of the city’s most iconic public spaces.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the park’s main stage and oval green, followed by a full day of live music, recreation, and community festivities. Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, District II Councilman Edward McDowell Jr., City Manager Teresa Wilson, Assistant City Manager Henry Simons, the Columbia Parks & Recreation Department, representatives from Mashburn Construction, public partners, and community members gathered to officially reopen the park.
“We promised the people of Columbia that we would restore and protect Finlay Park, and today we celebrate a promise delivered,” said Mayor Rickenmann. “We invested $25 million to bring back our city’s crown jewel, ensuring the iconic cascading fountain flows again. By implementing enhanced safety systems, lighting, and on-site public safety offices, we ensured this space is secure and welcoming for every family, resident, and visitor of the Capital City.”
City Manager Teresa Wilson added, “Together, with community support, our elected leadership over the years, hard work and dedication, we have embarked upon this next exciting chapter for Finlay Park. We are proud of the park’s welcoming, fun and safe atmosphere.”
Assistant City Manager Henry Simons echoed the excitement: “What was once a dream is now a destination again. Finlay Park’s rebirth reminds us that renewal is possible when vision meets commitment.”
Project Improvements
The nearly $25 million revitalization, completed in partnership with Mashburn Construction and a design and planning team, includes extensive upgrades:
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Restoration of the cascading fountain flowing into a redesigned pond and amenity stream
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A new performance stage for concerts, festivals, and cultural events
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Expanded green space for gatherings, recreation, yoga, and picnics
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A destination playground with inclusive features for all ages and abilities
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An interactive splash pad
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Strolling gardens and accessible walking loops
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Overlook Plaza with notable skyline views
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Shaded seating areas, picnic spots, and relaxation zones
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Restroom facilities, hospitality areas, and on-site offices for Park Rangers and Columbia Police
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Prisma Health Fitness Court, pickleball courts, and ping-pong areas
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Enhanced lighting, emergency call boxes, and camera safety systems
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Improved accessibility and neighborhood connections
“Mashburn Construction is honored to contribute to the revitalization of Finlay Park,” said Lee Gaymon, Assistant Superintendent. “Restoring historic features while adding modern amenities required extensive coordination. The City’s vision guided a project that will benefit residents and visitors for generations.”
The grand reopening continued November 16 with the Day Two Festival, featuring local and national artists. Both days’ events—presented in partnership with the Jam Room Music Festival—were free and open to the public. The COMET provided free shuttle service throughout the weekend.
For more information about Finlay Park, visit FinlayPark.ColumbiaSC.gov.
