Tampa’s $56M Riverwalk Expansion Set To Link Downtown Areas

Construction starts Oct. 28 on Tampa's $56 million Riverwalk project. The work will stretch two miles, connecting the Hillsborough River's west bank to the city center.

"It is a five mile overall project with about a two mile stretch of Riverwalk that is being added and it's really going to stitch together the neighborhood on the west side of the river through West Tampa through multiple different segments," said Brandon Campbell, interim mobility director for the City of Tampa, according to Tampa Bay 28.

Six phases make up the construction plan. Phase one brings two pedestrian bridges beneath current roads, plus a shared path. This section will stretch north from Bayshore Boulevard, meeting the West Riverwalk at Arabelle apartments.

Federal grants provide $24 million of the costs. The West Tampa Community puts in $10 million more. City funds will pay the rest.

Changes include fresh bike paths, extra parking spots, and wider walking areas for better safety. When done, a single path will run from Bayshore Boulevard through Ballast Point up to Armature Works.

Not everyone sees the changes as perfect. Local Dianne McNeilly shares mixed views: "I think the project is great. It has brought a lot of money to Tampa, this will just increase the money, but I think it needs to stay out of the neighborhoods and just keep it on the major areas where the socializing is."

At last week's community meeting, Tampa officials asked neighbors to share thoughts about the waterfront changes. Many spoke up about the planned updates.

The work should finish in 2027. Officials will break ground at the site Tuesday, Oct. 28.