Second phase underway as planners work to connect 27-mile riverfront network
IRMO — Mark Smires, executive director of the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC), recently briefed the Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo on progress and future plans for River Walk, a planned 27-mile riverfront trail network.
The first phase is complete, providing 2.5 miles of ADA-accessible trail connecting Dreher Shoals Landing to Saluda Shoals Park.
Construction on Phase 2 began Oct. 1 and will add about two miles of trail through the Shaw and Dominion properties. Plans include a 140-foot bridge over King Creek and the purchase of the Davis property on Gardendale Lane. The property’s Charleston-style house will be converted into a gatehouse and a restroom facility designed to accommodate flooding.
Phase 3 is targeted for 2030 and will connect trails beneath the I-20 and I-26 bridges. The schedule is expected to coordinate with the Carolina Crossroads project.
The expanded trail system is designed to improve river access, encourage outdoor recreation and connect communities throughout the Midlands.
Smires also discussed the challenges of allowing electric bicycles on the trails. While e-bikes can make trail use more accessible, particularly for older users, they raise safety concerns. ICRC is considering a 15-mph speed limit and signs establishing pedestrian right of way.
The trails will be open from dawn to dusk, without nighttime lighting or emergency call boxes. The approach is intended to discourage nighttime use and improve safety.
River Walk is part of the broader Three Rivers (3RVRS) initiative, which aims to establish the Midlands as a national leader in connected riverfront trails.
The Rotary Club of Lake Murray-Irmo welcomes community leaders, educators and business professionals to share their expertise with members. The club meets at 7:30 a.m. on the first three Wednesdays of each month at the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission. Visitors interested in fellowship, networking and community service are welcome.
For more information about the club and its service projects, contact Ken Gasque at 803-553-0010 or [email protected].
