Columbia, SC – Columbia is set to play host to a significant event as it becomes an official stop on the National League of Cities (NLC) Centennial Roadshow: 100 Years, 100 Cities. The roadshow is part of NLC’s year-long celebration, commemorating a century of commitment to advancing local government and advocating for cities, towns, and villages across the United States.
Mayor Daniel Rickenmann expressed his excitement about the event, noting the opportunities it brings for Columbia. “As a National League of Cities member, Columbia is fortunate to have opportunities to connect with communities nationwide who are facing the same challenges and collaborate to develop impactful solutions,” said Rickenmann. “We are excited to showcase the innovative projects and partnerships underway in Columbia in celebration of NLC’s centennial.”
The NLC Centennial Roadshow aims to spotlight the diversity, resilience, and transformation of America’s local communities by visiting 100 cities in various regions across the country. The tour began in February at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, the founding location of the NLC. Throughout the year, the roadshow will travel coast-to-coast, making stops in cities of all sizes, including Columbia.
Dr. Aditi Bussells, Columbia’s At-Large Councilwoman, who was elected to the NLC Board of Directors in 2022, emphasized the significance of the event for the city. “I am thrilled to welcome the NLC Centennial Roadshow to our vibrant capital city,” said Bussells. “This tour represents an extraordinary opportunity for us to showcase our city’s rich history, dynamic communities, and innovative spirit. We are honored to be part of this momentous celebration, reflecting on a century of progress and looking forward to the future of municipal leadership across the nation.”
During the roadshow’s stop in Columbia on June 20, city staff and NLC leaders will engage in a comprehensive tour of the city, highlighting key initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, and the city’s growing hospitality districts. The day’s events will commence at 8:30 a.m. with a warm welcome from city staff and Councilwoman Bussells.
The tour will include a visit to Columbia’s Emergency Operations Center, which also houses the Real Time Crime Operations Center. This will be followed by a stop at the Bull Street District and Rapid Shelter Columbia, where presentations will be given on the history and growth of the Bull Street District and the city’s initiatives to support the homeless community.
Clarence Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of the NLC, praised Columbia’s contributions to local government. “It is truly an honor for NLC to visit remarkable municipalities, like the city of Columbia that have made significant contributions to the advancement of local government over the past 100 years,” said Anthony. “Each of these cities has played a pivotal role in moving our local communities forward and has a unique story that showcases transformative change. As we celebrate and chart a course for the next 100 years, I am more excited than ever for the future of cities, towns, and villages and look forward to continuing important work together.”
Following the Columbia visit, the roadshow will continue to travel across the country, culminating in Tampa, Florida, where NLC will host its annual City Summit conference and the roadshow’s grand finale this November.
For more information about the NLC Centennial Roadshow or to learn more about NLC’s centennial events and initiatives, visit nlc100.org.
