Tampa Approves $56 Million Riverwalk Extension Across Hillsborough River
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.
“The $10 million could be better spent on funding or training for people to get jobs or for housing,” said Valerie Bullock, an East Tampa resident during Thursday’s CRA meeting.
Lynn Hurtak raised concerns about pulling $3.3 million from West Tampa’s fund, which has $7.6 million for community needs. Many residents prefer using that money for housing or job programs.
Design firm Haskell will develop six connected segments linking the current path to the western downtown area. This aligns with Tampa’s ongoing work with Vision Zero Network to make streets safer for everyone. When complete, the project will create Tampa’s largest network of connected paths with over 12 miles for walking, biking, and skating. It represents the biggest change to the waterfront since the path first opened.
