Colonial Life Volunteers to Renovate Picnic Area at Riverbanks Zoo

The public picnic area at Riverbanks Zoo will get a facelift starting Oct. 11. 

More than 70 volunteers from Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company will install new picnic tables in the wooded area next to the zoo that runs along the Saluda River. The picnic tables — which were funded primarily by Colonial Life — will be divided into three clusters called Beaver, Racoon and River Otter. 

Volunteers will also work with horticulturists at the zoo to create new landscaping in the area. 

The project will help The River Alliance improve the Three Rivers Greenway — 8.5 miles of pathway along the Congaree, Broad and Saluda Rivers. 

“Riverbanks Zoo and the Three Rivers Greenway are unique, valuable resources for our community,” said Kara Addy, assistant vice president for corporate and external communications at Colonial Life. “It’s a privilege for us to work with both organizations to help create a place for families, school children and others in the community to enjoy for years to come.”

This project is Colonial Life's volunteer project of the year. The volunteers will work Oct. 11, 12, 18 and 19. The project will conclude with a dedication ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 20 in the newly-renovated picnic area.