Columbia, SC Local News – January 29, 2026
Columbia, SC — January 29, 2026 — Assembly Street undergoes lane shifts; Florida Gators defeat Gamecocks; Winter storm claims second life in SC.
Assembly Street Lane Shifts Begin
Starting January 28, 2026, motorists on northbound Assembly Street between Washington and Hampton Streets will encounter lane shifts and traffic pattern changes due to the oLiv development construction. The right-hand northbound lane and adjacent parking meters are closed, with parking spaces converted into a travel lane to maintain three active northbound lanes. Left turns onto Hampton Street from northbound Assembly Street are now prohibited. Initial work began at 9:30 a.m. on January 28, with new lane markings installed by late afternoon. During this process, traffic signals in the affected area were set to flashing red, and traffic officers assisted with control. Drivers should expect minor delays and exercise caution. Additional street closures are anticipated by February 6, 2026, as construction progresses. These changes are expected to remain in place for approximately two years. [Source](https://columbiasc.gov/extended-lane-shift-and-traffic-pattern-changes-coming-to-assembly-street-beginning-january-28/)
Florida Gators Defeat Gamecocks
On January 28, 2026, the No. 19 Florida Gators dominated the South Carolina Gamecocks with a 95-48 victory at Colonial Life Arena. Florida shot 62% from the floor and out-rebounded the Gamecocks 45-24. Junior forward Thomas Haugh led with 18 points, and junior center Rueben Chinyelu added 14 points and 11 rebounds. This win ties the program’s most lopsided Southeastern Conference victory and the largest on the road. [Source](https://floridagators.com/news/2026/1/28/mens-basketball-buzzer-florida-vs-south-carolina-jan-28-2026)
Winter Storm Claims Second Life in SC
The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed a second winter storm-related death on January 28, 2026. An 83-year-old woman in Lexington County died from hypothermia after being outside during the storm. The first reported death was a 96-year-old woman in Greenwood County who died of hypothermia on January 26. Both deaths were confirmed by their respective county coroners. [Source](https://www.abccolumbia.com/2026/01/28/dph-confirms-second-winter-storm-related-death-in-sc/)
Why it matters locally
These events highlight significant developments affecting Columbia, SC, including infrastructure changes, local sports outcomes, and public health concerns.
