The City of Tampa has the opportunity to reshape the waterfront for everyone to have access to and enjoy by developing a Master Plan for the Tampa Riverwalk, a continuous pedestrian walkway extending from the Channelside area to Tampa Heights along the east side of the Hillsborough River. It will incorporate pedestrian amenities, art and interpretive elements, retail and restaurant uses, parks and open space, and other urban amenities.  EDAW, an international planning, landscape architecture and urban design firm, completed the Master Plan. From this Master Plan the City identified the Riverwalk elements that will be built in Phase I.

Long Range Plan

The concept of a river walk for Tampa has been around since the mid-1970s. In 2003 renewed emphasis was placed on developing the waterfront to enhance the image of Tampa as a beautiful and unique destination. This revitalized goal is to create a Riverwalk with timeless appeal and memorable qualities that will draw people from both near and far.

The Tampa Riverwalk will serve to integrate residential living, economic development, educational and social activities, and the cultural arts district, as well as parks and open space, using one of the City of Tampa's most valuable resources in the downtown area -- the waterfront.

Many factors have come together to make now the time to transform Tampa's downtown waterfront area into a center of commerce, transportation, entertainment and residential living. The Riverwalk will make downtown the heart of the city.

Our vision is to create a vibrant and interactive waterfront experience for residents and visitors that reflects the spirit and uniqueness of Tampa.

View The Tampa Riverwalk Master Plan Document (in PDF format)

Tampa Riverwalk Vision