Buckhorn, Community Leaders Break Ground on Water Works Park

Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Casey Gonzmart of the Columbia Restaurant Group, and community leaders will break ground on Water Works Park at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9. 

Water Works Park improvements will include a play area, splash pad, dog run, public boat docks, performance pavilion, and open lawn.

The work will also include a segment of the Riverwalk, which, when complete, will connect with the Doyle Carlton segment, as well as restored shoreline. The park is at 1710 N. Highland.

Ulele Spring, formerly called Magbee Spring, is also under restoration. Initial construction began in fall 2012 and will be completed as part of the park improvements.

In addition to the park improvements and spring restoration, the City of Tampa leased the historic Water Works Building, adjacent to the park, to the Columbia Restaurant Group which is transforming the historic landmark into Ulele. 

The restaurant and brewery will serve unique foods and spirits by fusing elements from a rich variety of Native American and multicultural influences, including those of European explorers. The menu will feature items indigenous to this area’s waters and farms.   Ulele is anticipated to be open in spring 2014.

The total cost for the improvements to the park is  $7.4 million, and will be made by Biltmore Construction, Inc. $6.5 million in funding comes from Capital Improvements Tax (CIT) with additional monies coming from a SFWMD grant and the site’s designation as a brownsfield.  The improvements as well as the spring restoration are anticipated to be complete in spring 2014. 

To view a rendering of the park, please visit tampagov.net.

 - Courtesy of Ali Glisson, City of Tampa