Tampa is advancing the West Riverwalk Expansion to improve connectivity and recreation in the area. The City of Tampa states that the project includes pedestrian underpass bridges and a bicycle boulevard, as part of a broader infrastructure initiative.
The project, divided into multiple segments, begins with the Platt to Brorein stretch. This phase includes two new pedestrian underpass bridges to improve access from Bayshore Boulevard north to the Arabelle Riverwalk. According to city's release, the project also features "Dark Skies" compliant lighting to address both safety and visibility. In addition, the multi-use trail planned at Tony Jannus Park is included as a key component of this segment of the expansion.
Segment 2, spanning Kennedy to Rome, covers a 1.5-mile corridor that includes a continuous multi-use trail connecting educational institutions, parks, and recreational centers. The trail provides access to Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park and incorporates “habitat panels” intended to support local ecology, as per city's release. "Dark Skies" compliant lighting is also included to minimize light pollution and preserve nighttime visibility.
The Platt Street improvements include a dedicated connection from Rome Avenue through Hyde Park to the riverfront. The project adds a separated eastbound cycle track to separate cyclists from vehicle traffic. Green pavement markings and high-emphasis crosswalks are included to improve visibility and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Segment 4 on Rome Avenue covers approximately 1.3 miles of street improvements. The project includes full-depth roadway reconstruction, along with new lanes and upgraded sidewalks for cyclists and pedestrians. Canopy and understory trees are planned throughout the corridor as part of the landscaping improvements.
The Columbus segment, from Rome Avenue to N. Boulevard, is designed to improve connections between local neighborhoods in West Tampa. The project includes a planned two-way cycle track on the Columbus Drive bridge to provide a direct link to the East Riverwalk.
Ridgewood Park will receive a 0.4-mile bicycle boulevard, along with new trail sections and safety improvements. The City of Tampa states that the project also includes lighting designed to comply with the “Dark Skies” initiative.
