Construction to Start Soon on Tampa’s $56.8M West Riverwalk

UPDATE: Construction for Tampa’s highly anticipated West Riverwalk project is set to kick off in November 2025. This $56.8 million initiative aims to transform public access along the Hillsborough River, creating a vital connection between neighborhoods and enhancing waterfront enjoyment.

City leaders, alongside the design-build firm Haskell, held an urgent public meeting last night to outline the construction timeline and address community concerns. The project will introduce a 12.2-mile multi-use trail, including a scenic two-mile Riverwalk along the west bank, linking key areas such as West Tampa, Ridgewood Park, Hyde Park, Bayshore Boulevard, the North Franklin Street Historic District, Downtown Tampa, and Ybor City.

The initiative is designed to improve safety for multiple users—walkers, bikers, and drivers alike. “It’s going to stitch together the neighborhoods on the west side of the river through West Tampa,” stated Brandon Campbell, Interim Mobility Director for the City of Tampa. This development responds directly to the growing demand for active transportation options amidst rising urban density, particularly near the University of Tampa.

Construction will unfold in six segments, with the city prioritizing the multimodal network across approximately five miles of public space on the Riverwalk. Notably, segment five will reduce lanes on the bridge between North Rome Avenue and North Riverside Drive from four to three, aiming to separate traffic for enhanced safety. Nina Mabilleau, Transportation Project Coordinator, explained, “We’re reallocating space on the bridge for all users—motor vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.”

However, not all residents are fully supportive of the changes. Concerns have surfaced regarding potential traffic congestion on West Columbus Drive. Local resident JR Kozera voiced his worries, stating, “I think it’s just going to wreak havoc. Traffic is congested on Columbus already. Narrowing that bridge isn’t the answer.” Privacy issues have also been raised by neighbors, with Dianne McNeilly questioning the implications of increased foot traffic on residential tranquility.

As construction is slated for completion by early 2027, city officials emphasize the importance of community input and safety in navigating this significant urban project. Residents are urged to stay informed and engaged as this transformative development progresses.

Stay tuned for more updates as the West Riverwalk project unfolds, impacting the Tampa community and its vibrant waterfront for years to come.