Tampa’s Riverwalk is set for a major expansion under the West River BUILD project, which will extend the current 2.6-mile waterfront path by about five additional miles along the west bank of the Hillsborough River.
The project includes roughly two miles of new riverside trail connecting through Platt Street, Rome Avenue, and Columbus Drive. City officials view the effort as part of a broader plan to improve transportation options and revitalize West Tampa. However, some residents have expressed concerns about privacy and potential traffic congestion. As WFLA reported, residents like Dianne McNeilly worry that increased accessibility could affect neighborhood privacy, while JR Kozera has raised issues about traffic changes, including a lane reduction on the bridge between North Rome Avenue and North Riverside Drive. City official Nina Mabilleau said the change is intended to enhance safety.
Mayor Jane Castor described the Riverwalk expansion as a long-term investment to connect communities and improve waterfront access, according to WTSP.
Some local business owners, such as Lennise and Omar Germany, are optimistic about the economic opportunities the project could bring to nearby establishments, Spectrum News 9 noted.
Backed by a $24 million federal grant, the $57 million project is scheduled to begin in November and finish in early 2027. City officials say the expansion aims to create a more connected and accessible urban corridor while addressing public safety and transportation needs.
