I am a resident of Columbia, SC, and the river has been a primary source of entertainment for me for as long as I've lived here. It has provided me with countless hours of tranquility and peace, all without costing a dime. However, this cherished natural space is under threat due to plans to build a 4.75-acre structure for pickleball. This construction will destroy roughly 15,000 square feet of riverside bank and disrupt the delicate ecosystem along the river.

The proposed structure threatens not only our enjoyment of this beautiful area but also the diverse wildlife that calls it home. The destruction could lead to a loss in biodiversity which can have far-reaching effects on our environment (Source: Environmental Protection Agency). Furthermore, no public demand for such a vanity project was expressed by residents.

Our riverside should be preserved for its natural beauty and ecological importance rather than being exploited for unnecessary development. We need your help in urging our local representatives to reconsider their plans for this construction project.

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving our natural spaces and protecting them from unnecessary development. Your signature can make a difference in saving our beloved riverside ecosystem.