As one of the fastest‑growing cities in the Southeast, Columbia, South Carolina, has experienced increasing congestion and safety concerns along the Assembly Street Railroad Corridor, where dense freight rail activity intersects with major downtown roadways. For more than 15 years, STV has supported the City of Columbia and the South Carolina Department of Transportation with planning, design and outreach services to advance the Assembly Street Railroad Corridor Separation program. The long‑range initiative aims to reduce traffic delays, enhance safety and streamline freight operations by consolidating and separating key rail and roadway movements in the heart of the city.
What challenges is STV addressing?
The corridor faces recurring vehicle delays and safety risks due to frequent freight movements across multiple at‑grade crossings. The project required evaluating complex track and roadway interactions, identifying feasible grade separation options and navigating a dense urban environment with adjacent neighborhoods, institutions and businesses. Long‑term phasing, jurisdictional coordination and funding strategies were essential given the program’s scale.
What solutions is STV delivering?
STV completed a feasibility study evaluating multiple engineering alternatives, performed conceptual engineering and led NEPA compliance activities. The team coordinated extensively with railroads and local agencies and facilitated public meetings featuring immersive displays and two‑way dialogue to build community support. STV prepared preliminary track and roadway designs, utility and right‑of‑way evaluations and developed grant documentation that helped secure a $204 million FRA Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant.
How will this project benefit the community?
The program will reduce congestion, improve freight reliability and enhance safety by removing conflicts between trains, vehicles and pedestrians. By supporting long‑term land use planning, the project strengthens downtown mobility, enhances economic vitality and improves quality of life for residents and businesses.
Key stats and accolades
- 15‑plus years of planning, engineering and outreach
- Feasibility study and NEPA activities completed
- Conceptual track and roadway designs advanced
- $204 million FRA Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant secured
- Multi‑agency coordination across city, state and rail partners
