Tampa leaders gave the green light to a major waterfront project on January 17, 2025. The $56 million plan will extend Tampa’s Riverwalk across the Hillsborough River, connecting west-side neighborhoods. A U.S. Department of Transportation BUILD grant covers half the cost. West Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency chips in $10 million, with city money covering the remaining $32 million needed for construction. The major expansion adds 5.5 miles of protected paths to the existing 2.6-mile stretch.
Beginning at the Bayshore Publix on Platt Street, it snakes toward Rick’s on the River, including new sections along Columbus Drive and Rome Avenue. Though building won’t start until 2026, planning is already underway. The west bank will see new bike lanes, expanded walkways, and improved waterfront areas.
Not everyone supports the plan. Council member Bill Carlson slammed it as a “vanity project of the administration,” arguing money should go to drainage fixes and road repairs instead…