Congaree Vista Guild

Programs: The guild applied for a grant and received a share of hospitality tax funds from the city of columbia, sc. These funds were expended for activities designed to draw tourists into the vista designated geographic area. (a tourist being defined as anyone who lives outside the 29201 zipcode and visits for purposes other than work). The vista is a geographic defined area that in the past consisted of a declining warehouse district between the state capitol building and the congaree river. The buildings have historical significance and have been restored as an eclectic collection of art galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, other retail stores and professsional services firms. The funds are used for professional media planning, print, radio, & magazine advertising throughout sc, nc, & georgia, public relations, media relations, the printing of brochures, flyers & posters and one part-time administrator for the purpose of promoting the vista as a desirable destination.

our hospitality teams include safety guides; a cleaning crew; a shift manager and an operations supervisor. They are used as a compliment to city services including the columbia police department and public works. The downtown safety guides consist of bike and foot patrols during the day and into the evening hours. The guides are charged with giving public assistance and directions as well as showing a highly visible presence in our congaree vista district. The vista clean & safe team removes debris and graffiti from sidewalks and alleyways, and solves other maintenance issues including landscaping, plantings and reporting of code and other violations/problems to the proper city departments.

the guild organized and funded vista lights, an annual event which takes place the thursday before thanksgiving and kicks off the holiday shopping season in the congaree vista district. Tri-state print, television, and radio advertising drew shoppers to the district where they enjoyed entertainment, holiday decorations, and a festive atmosphere. Nearly all vista merchants participated in this event.