Gills Creek Memorial Park

Park History and Development

Gills Creek Memorial Park is a newly developed urban green space located in Forest Acres, a suburb of Columbia, South Carolina. The park officially opened to the public in April 2024, marking a significant milestone in the area's recovery and development following the devastating floods of 2015.

Situated along the banks of Gills Creek, the park occupies land that was once prone to flooding and housed businesses that were destroyed in the 2015 flood event. The $3 million project was partially funded by state government and SCDOT funds, with the remainder coming from hospitality taxes.

Features and Amenities

The park features a mix of recreational and commemorative elements. A centerpiece of the park is a boardwalk that overlooks the creek, providing visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the urban waterway and even fish.

Though compact in size, the park offers a thoughtfully designed layout with beautiful views of Gills Creek. The green space provides a venue for community gatherings and events, including a weekly farmers market held on Wednesday afternoons.

For families with children, the park includes a popular splash pad, adding a fun water element that's especially enjoyed during warm days. The park's design makes it an ideal spot for picnics and casual outings.

A small performance stage caters to acoustic performances and other small-scale entertainment events throughout the year.

Memorial Significance

The park also serves a solemn purpose with a memorial dedicated to fallen police officers, specifically honoring two Forest Acres Police Officers who were killed in the line of duty: Richey O'Brian Finch in 1974 and Greg Alia in 2015.

Gills Creek Memorial Park is designed to be accessible and enjoyable from sunrise to sunset, providing residents and visitors alike with a space for recreation, reflection, and community connection in the heart of Forest Acres.