West Columbia begins $15M Mill Village overhaul

The city of West Columbia is beginning a $15 million overhaul of the Mill Village neighborhood and Alexander Road.

This comprehensive project is designed to modernize the area’s utility networks, reduce the risk of severe flooding, and improve overall safety and mobility for residents and visitors, according to a news release from the city.

The initiative is fueled by a strategic partnership between the city and two major state agencies: the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority and the South Carolina Office of Resilience. By combining these resources, the city is addressing aging infrastructure above and below the ground, according to the release.

A centerpiece of this project is a long-term investment from the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority. While surface-level road and drainage work are the most visible parts of the project, the SCRIA’s participation focuses on a broader effort to replace aging water infrastructure, the release stated.

This large-scale utility investment ensures that as the neighborhood grows, its foundational systems, specifically water and wastewater, remain reliable. By replacing aging pipes now, the city says it is preventing water main breaks and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality drinking water. This strategy allows the city to maximize taxpayer dollars by upgrading underground utilities at the same time the roads and drainage systems are being rebuilt.

South Carolina Sen. Russell Ott said, “I am excited to see this important project move forward. The city of West Columbia, and the Mill Village area specifically, have seen significant impacts in recent years, including during storms like Hurricane Helene. These improvements will help reduce flooding and improve stormwater mitigation, while also protecting homes and families and strengthening critical utility infrastructure that supports reliable, safe drinking water for residents who rely on it every day. This project reflects the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority’s continued investment in communities as it modernizes water and wastewater systems across the state.”

State Rep. Micah Caskey said in the release, “Mill Village residents have asked for real stormwater solutions, and this project delivers vital protection for their homes and quality of life. This effort is a testament to our close partnership with the city of West Columbia. By working hand-in-hand with Mayor Tem Miles, the City Council, and City Administrator Brian Carter, we are ensuring the best possible use of taxpayer dollars by layering state and local resources to tackle multiple challenges at once.”

Bonnie Ammons, executive director of the S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority, said the Mill Village Area Project is one phase of a $10 million grant awarded to West Columbia for the replacement of aging water infrastructure.

Construction began in January and is expected to take approximately 15 months to complete in phases, the release stated. This phased approach will allow the city to maintain access to homes and businesses while managing traffic.

Planned improvements include:

• Utility Modernization: Replacement of aging water infrastructure.
• Stormwater Management: Upgraded drainage system.
• Transportation & Safety: Roadway realignment, on-street parking, and enhanced pedestrian walkability.

City of West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles said in the release, “I am excited this project is getting underway. It will fix longstanding problems with water infrastructure, stormwater drainage, road surfaces, traffic flow, and parking in the Mill Village and surrounding area. These improvements are much needed.”

To keep residents and businesses informed, the city will provide regular updates through various methods, including callouts, city social media platforms, a dedicated project webpage and door hangers.