TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa’s proposed “Wheel Over Water” project will be the topic of a second public meeting Thursday. 

The 250-foot observation wheel, dubbed Tampa WOW!, would be built on the parking lot between Port Tampa Bay and the Florida Aquarium.

Supporters said it could become a new family-friendly attraction for the city’s waterfront but many nearby residents are worried about the impact on parking, noise, and traffic in an already congested area.

What You Need To Know

The proposed Wheel over Water would stand 350-feet tall and be located next to the Florida Aquarium   

 Channelside residents are voicing concerns about added traffic and parking issues should the project move forward

 In a statement, the Florida Aquarium voiced its support of the project

The developer says the city will bear no financial burden for the WOW! 
City of Tampa council meeting, Thursday, 9 a.m., City Hall

“It is extremely exciting that people want to invest $20 million in my neighborhood,” one resident said during the first public meeting earlier this month. “But I will remind you this is 40 feet taller than Gwazi, it is illuminated, and it is less than 1,000 feet from my home.”

Another resident voiced similar concerns about congestion near the port.

“Have you ever been down there when the ships are in? It’s a cluster down there,” the resident said. “People are already searching for parking spaces. This is going to add more problems for us.”

City council members also raised questions about financial responsibility. The developer behind the project has pledged to cover all costs and assume full risk if the venture fails.

Despite community concerns, the Florida Aquarium, located next to the proposed site, has voiced its support. In a statement, CEO Roger Germann said:

“The vision behind Tampa WOW! – Tampa’s Wheel Over Water aligns with the bold ideas set forth by our founders and city, business, and community leaders when we first opened our doors. The Florida Aquarium supports this unique opportunity to bring a new family-friendly experience to Tampa.”

If approved, the $20 million project could open by the fall of next year. Most city council members appear supportive, provided the city bears no financial burden.