Florida Construction News staff writer
The City of Tampa is planning to expand the West River District BUILD Grant project, and build connections to more neighborhoods west of the Hillsborough River.
The city is looking for a design-build team or firm to design and construct this approximately 5-mile-long project.
According to the project website, “once the City of Tampa selects a contractor, our teams will be able to develop renderings, continue to coordinate with the community, and shape what this expansion will truly look like.”
The additional trail will connect to more neighborhoods including West Tampa, Tampa Heights, Bayshore Boulevard, Hyde Park, Riverside Heights, North Franklin Street, and Bowman Heights. The trail will go from North Bayshore Boulevard, near the Platt Street bridge, and will have some over-water segments and living shorelines.
>The project will also feature new sidewalks, bike lanes, and enhanced crossing features at major roadways to expand safer connections in neighborhoods that make up the West River area. Several schools are on the path, so this project will allow kids to walk to school more safely.
Construction is expected to be substantially completed by Dec. 31, 2026.
“This project is about more than just following the river, it’s about connecting our neighborhoods and making them safer,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “We are thrilled to be able to transform the west side of the river and fill in the gaps.
“This project will make it safer and more fun for anyone who wants to come to downtown and experience the center of our city, the Hillsborough River.”
In fall 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation approved a $24 million grant to partially fund this project, with funding secured by Representative Kathy Castor through the Federal Highway Administration’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program.
“The $24M BUILD grant will improve neighborhoods, mobility, and connectivity through 12 miles of multi-modal paths and street improvements,” said Representative Kathy Castor. “Previous federal funding of $10 million for the Tampa Riverwalk has been instrumental in the redevelopment of the downtown and waterfront. Mayor Castor is a great partner in securing funding and building a safer, friendlier, and connected Tampa.”