Columbia's Gateway to the Ouachita River and Ouachita Riverwalk

A recent addition to the Columbia landscape is the Riverwalk Gateway, at the top of the levee at the end of Main Street. The Gateway and the steps below it allow access to the boat dock, and beckon traffic both on the river and US 165. The Gateway area has now been enhanced by the Ouachita Riverwalk, that extends for about 1500 feet along the top of the levee. It is the beginning of a scenic trail that will lead for several miles along the river from a trailhead being developed just upriver from the US 165 bridge.

The gateway proudly displays Old Glory, as well as French and Spanish historic flags, the flag of the Confederacy (the real one, not the more widely recognized battle flag), and the flags of Caldwell Parish and the Town of Columbia.

The center arch, columns that support the flags, and the US flagpole have been sponsored by various families and civic organizations, which are recognized by commemorative plaques. The town and parish flags were designed by local students, and unveiled at the dedication of the gateway, which was held the weekend of Independence Day, 1997.

The Riverwalk is paved with concrete, and illuminated by vintage style streetlamps matching those throughout the downtown area. Benches and kiosks will be added as the project progresses. Embedded in the Riverwalk near the Gateway and dock are areas which will soon boast commemorative bricks-- they will be installed as soon as a sufficient number are sold. The walk has areas that are good for sunning and watching river traffic, as well as other shady areas that are great for reading and quiet conversation. The Riverwalk has already been a part of Columbia's Halloween and Christmas celebrations, during which the streetlamps were joined by lighted trees and other figures as well as hundreds of candles.

The official dedication of the Ouachita Riverwalk will be held on Saturday, June 27, 1998. A festive day is planned, beginning with a poker run on the river from noon until 4 pm. This will be followed by the annual patriotic concert and chicken dinner of the Riverside Concert Band. After the concert, the Riverwalk will be officially dedicated. The evening will culminate in a reception at the Schepis Museum to launch its latest exhibit, Doors to the Mind.

There is still opportunity to become a part of the riverwalk/gateway project, as the plaza area below the gateway will contain several areas of commemorative bricks, that can be purchased as a tribute or memorial. Streetlamps have been installed, that will be illuminated as they are sold and dedicated. Eventually, covered kiosks will be built, and there will be several benches in place to make enjoyment of the river view easier. These improvements are part of the Main Street Memory Lane Project. We invite everyone to enjoy our little part of the river!!

---