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The Alafia River
"Time is but the stream I go a-fishin in. I drink at it, but while I drink I see the sandy bottom and detect how shallow it is. It's thin current slides away, but eternity remains." ~Henry David Thoreau~

Riverview.

Our Past. Our Present. Our Future.

Riverview Map • Riverview Roots - Area's Ancient History • Riverview History • Riverview's Future - Our Community Plan

Riverview's Future - Our Community Plan

"Do not seek to follow the footsteps of the men of old. Seek what they sought." Basho

Community Vision and Goals and Plan Implementation

Introduction

Riverview is a diverse community sharing the characteristics of urban and rural areas loosely defined by the historical development patterns and predominant land uses. In order to prepare this Plan, the Advisory Committee divided Riverview into a patchwork of districts to reflect the unique character and land uses in the communities. The Plan distinguishes a Downtown ( Town Center ) , Riverfront District, Residential , U.S. Highway 301, Mixed Use, Agricultural/Open space and Industrial districts.

The Riverview Community Plan incorporates growth management strategies at two levels. First, the Plan sets out Communitywide goals, objectives and policies (GOP’s). The GOP’s are global in nature, applying to more than one of the districts and in some cases all districts. The second level reflects the Riverview community by district. The districts are shown on the Riverview Concept Map and feature the unique land use characteristics and vision developed by the Advisory Committee and the residents of Riverview.

Communitywide Vision Statement

The resident's communitywide vision is to maintain the areas’ rural and small town charm and atmosphere. As the community grows, it is envisioned that the overall impression of Riverview would be one of a peaceful, family-oriented, safe and walkable atmosphere for all to live, work and play.

The community's aspires to create a strong sense of “community identity” and spirit. The community seeks to enhance the area with versatile recreational and economic opportunities. Further, there is a desire to develop cultural and educational resources that stimulate the young and old.

The Alafia River is the focal point of the community and much of the planning has focused on preserving the natural beauty of the area and maximizing the economic benefit of this natural amenity. Building on this approach, the strategies and goals have been developed to use the riverfront and other natural amenities to enhance the community. Further supporting this, the residents have expressed a strong desire to maximize recreational and economic opportunities uniquely afforded them by the Alafia River , while recognizing a priority protecting the natural resources.

Industrial District (shown in grey)

With improved infrastructure, readily available high tech capabilities and conveniently located near I-75, I-4 the Selman Expressway and on U.S. Hwy 301, Riverview is truly the commerce crossroads for east Tampa and Central Florida ’s west coast. The area is also easily accessible by foot, bike, transit or vehicle for the many residents of the Riverview community. Many new industries and businesses area attracted to this area thus providing a large number of jobs for workers in all classifications. Our industrial partners are good neighbors as well. Even though our industrial businesses clean and non-polluting, they continue to be tightly monitored.

Goal: Attract, Locate and Support Appropriate Industry and Employment

Objectives:

Designate employment centers with appropriate infrastructure in areas without conflicts with other land uses.

Attract local employment so residents can work within the community

Attract desirable industry that is clean and non-polluting

Encourage and Support Quality Appearance and Maintenance of Development in the Industrial District

Goal: Improve Regional Mobility

Objectives:

Provide for and promote coordinated transportation planning, right-of-way and corridor protection.

Provide safe and efficient evacuation routes and Ensure adequate number of emergency management shelters.

Riverfront District (Shown in Light Green)

The intent of the Riverfront District is to recognize the historical , scenic, recreational and environmental value of the Alafia River and to develop strategies to enhance these qualities. While many residents reflected on the historic and scenic attraction of the River as the catalyst for settlement along the Alafia, there were a number of issues about the current growth and development pattern that caused concern. The community voiced dissatisfaction with the existing development conditions along the riverfront. Many commented that the zoning and land use was too intense along the riverfront. Some residents were particularly concerned about the environmental impact of mobile home parks and older residences using septic systems along the river.

Another priority expressed by the community was the desire to preserve and increase public access and recreational opportunities, and the number of public boat ramps along the Alafia. This included discussions of developing neighborhood and community parks in this area and redeveloping areas to allow for mixed uses.

As a result of the concerns and community input, the Advisory Community developed and generally defined the Riverfront District. The vision for this district is expressed below.

Vision

The beautiful Alafia River district has maintained superior water quality and ecosystems. Good planning has kept the original charm of the river, while also providing River-walks on both sides of the river that offer opportunities for a variety of activities in and around the water. The boat ramps have ample space and are convenient for all types of recreational watercraft. Law enforcement has encouraged boating safety and discouraged the high-risk antics of those who endanger others. This area is a short walk to the Downtown Area via the interlocking network of paths. Property in this area has been down planned to reduce the density and intensity. The community has acquired property along the river to improve public access to this natural resource.

Goal: Recognize the Alafia River as the predominate natural amenity and focal point of Riverview and place as a high priority on protection of the resource and enhancement of public access along the shoreline.

Objectives:

Enhance the public’s ability to enjoy and have access to the Alafia shoreline.

Preserve view corridors from adjacent roadways and trail system.

Promote the Alafia River as a tourist and recreational resource of Riverview.

Protect the environmental quality and wildlife habitat of the Alafia River.

Goal: Develop system of parklands that provide enhanced direct access to the Alafia River and provide linear greenspace throughout the Riverfront District.

Objectives:

Establish and maintain a high quality open space system on the foundation of the existing parkland and ELAPP network.

Provide unique sense of place to various parks within the open space system.

Goal: As Riverview’s population grows, the Alafia River and its tributaries will require greater boat access within the Riverfront District.

Objectives:

Preserve and expand public boats ramps that exist in the community.

Goal: