In 2012, Columbus lit a fuse and tore down some walls that held us back. Historically, the dams were vital, allowing industries in our mill community to thrive. It makes me ponder: How often do we leave structures and systems in place long after their purpose has become irrelevant? If we aren't intentional, the things established to empower growth can become the very thing that hinders it. In Columbus' story, the dams accepted as a permanent fixture actually caused the water to grow dirty and were expensive to maintain. Our local wildlife suffered, and the river was essentially unusable.
Until one day, a local businessman said, 'What if we tear them down?"
Local businesses and donors helped fund the $24.4 million restoration project. It was a considerable investment that would take over two decades to come to fruition. It was not a rushed decision or a fast process. Before the dams could be removed, whitewater structures were designed and put in place. On the day Columbus blasted the dams, locals gathered for the event. Nobody knew what to expect. Experts were involved, and plans were in place, but the waters of the mighty Chattahoochee would determine the outcome.
Not only did the water quality improve significantly faster than expected, but Columbus, Georgia, is now home to the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Kayakers come from all over to train in our rapids. Wildlife flourishes in our blue heron reserve, and bald eagles are regularly seen nesting and flying as you navigate our river walk. Local restaurants and businesses are thriving as the heartbeat of crashing waters draws people to our uptown. It has transformed our city to blow up outdated relics and give our natural resources the freedom to be unleashed. Annually, we host "Paddle South." In 2022, we hosted the World Cup games. In 2023, we hosted the "ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships." Just typing that blows my mind.
One of the most beautiful side effects of tearing down walls is the opportunities that have opened for the next generation to discover their passions. This painting is a rendering of a picture taken by a local family who has jumped boldly into our raging waters. They manage a non-profit that works with soldiers from Fort Benning and teach kayaking classes locally and around the country. But the most remarkable thing is watching how their kids significantly impact the paddling community.
This painting depicts Mason Hargrove, a hometown favorite (and dear friend) who is a 5x national champion, vice World Cup champion, junior world champion, and 4x USA team member. His sister, Makinley Kate is currently the junior world champion, 2x world cup gold medalist, 5x national champion, 3x USA team member.
Their story testifies to the ripple effects created when our city creatively chose to grow and adapt. Mason and many others would have missed the opportunity to discover this passion without people investing in an unforeseen future with an unknown impact.
Insightful people who recognize when it's no longer wise to cling to the past and have the grit to activate change are the ones who get to make a little history.
Recently, Redfin asked me to contribute what I love about living in Columbus.
It was an honor and the nudge I needed to share this painting and pondering.
