TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa’s West Riverwalk expansion is moving forward, with city leaders unveiling a major construction milestone Tuesday as work continues to extend the city’s signature waterfront destination.

During a behind-the-scenes tour, officials highlighted progress on the nearly $60 million project, which is designed to connect the west side of the Hillsborough River to downtown with two new pedestrian bridges and an observation overlook.

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From the water, crews are drilling massive support columns deep into the river to lay the foundation for the new bridges. Once complete, the project will create a continuous 12-mile Riverwalk, making it easier for people to walk, bike and run between neighborhoods.

“We’re going to be able to connect neighborhoods so people can get out of their cars, and they can walk, and they can bike, and they can run between our different neighborhoods and enjoy all the things that Tampa has to offer,” Tampa City Commissioner Alan Clendenin said.

The project is currently about 20% complete, with installation of the first bridge decks expected later this summer.

Mayor Jane Castor said expanding the Riverwalk has been years in the making.

“It took seven mayors to get this Riverwalk completed on the east side and how it really is a crown jewel for our city,” Castor said.

Not everyone supports the expansion, however. Some residents believe the city should prioritize infrastructure improvements to keep pace with Tampa’s rapid growth.

“I do think that since Tampa is growing so rapidly due to developments like the Riverwalk, we will need to invest more in our infrastructure so that we can actually support all the growth that we’re trying to bring into the city,” resident Jade Scott said.

Even with some concerns, city leaders said the project is expected to create new opportunities for West Tampa while improving access to the waterfront.

Construction remains on schedule, with the West Riverwalk expansion expected to be completed in the spring of 2027.

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