🌱 USC Lifts Mask Mandate + Decker Boulevard Fire + Rail Project

Hello again, Columbia! Important update: You all, as readers, have made the Columbia Daily so successful that it is my honor to announce the next stage of the newsletter. Patch is looking for a local writer and entrepreneur to take the helm of the Columbia Daily. Although I have loved getting to know this community, we want to pass the torch to someone truly local to write about Columbia long term. So if you’re interested in earning extra income while making this newsletter a more valuable resource for your neighbors, learn more and apply here.

First, today's weather:

Partly sunny and warmer. High: 71 Low: 48.

Here are the top three stories in Columbia today:

1. The University of South Carolina is lifting its mask mandate for all campus instructional and research spaces. The change comes as the area sees a decline in COVID-19 cases. Masks will still be required in USC's medical facilities, as well as recommended for individuals who are symptomatic or are considered higher-risk. (WACH.com)
2. Twelve people have been displaced after an apartment fire near Decker Boulevard. The blaze broke out around 1:15 pm on Wednesday; no one was injured in the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. (Abccolumbia.com)
3. A $250M project could fix Columbia's railroad crossings. The project from the state assembly will create flyovers or overpasses on Rosewood Drive, Assembly Street, and Huger Street. The project is currently having its budget approved by the Senate. (WLTX.com)

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Today in Columbia:

• St. Patrick's Day At Tin Roof (6:00 PM)
• Sculpture and Transformation in Rodin and Agha At Columbia Museum of Art (6:00 PM)
• Tracielynn At Market On Main (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• These five restaurants opened in Columbia in the last five months. Have you tried them yet? (The State)
• The One Love Event was created to teach teens the importance of healthy relationships. The event will take place on Sunday, Mar. 27 at Killian Park. (WIS News 10)
• Richland Library St. Andrews will host a vaccine clinic today. Appointments are recommended, though walk-ins will also be accepted. (Abccolumbia.com)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Divorce & The Home – the Spring Housing Market – Vesta's South Carolina Hub (March 22)
• American Diabetes Association Diabetes Alert Day: Understand Your Risk (March 22)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll be in your inbox tomorrow with another update.

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.