Welcome to Riverview, Florida!
Riverview Communities
Boyette Farms
Hampton Channels
Lake St. Charles
Lakes of Cristina
Moss Creek
Panther Trace
Pavilion
Random Oaks
River Crest
Shadow Run
South Pointe
Summerfield
Waterford on the Alafia
A Greater Alafia River CommunityRiverview is Located in Hillsborough County, Florida
just South of Tampa in the Great Old USA!Riverview is conveniently located along the I-75 corridor thirty minutes from Tampa, fifty minutes from the beautiful beaches of Bradenton, Florida, one hour from Walt Disney World, and two and a half hours from Kennedy Space Center and the east coast of Florida.
Riverview is blessed with a host of natural beauty, resources, and activities all within a short trip from the town. From bubbling natural springs of Lithia Springs State Park to the meandering Alafia River which empties into Tampa Bay and affords residents direct access to The Gulf of Mexico. Fishing, surfing, boating, kayaking, water skiing, and diving are just minutes away from Riverview. For the sports fan we have three professional sport franchises: The Tampa Bay Lightning, The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. This area is also is fortunate to have numerous golf courses to explore and play, but if you're looking for a little more of a cultural experience, we have professional theatre and shows at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center and The Jaeb Theatre.
Because of our geographical location, Riverview is a great place to live, the housing market is strong, and with increased populations business opportunities abound. . . .
Riverview is comprised of 55.88 square miles and 35,769 acres.
Historical Overview of Riverview
- Native American Indians named the river Alafia which means “River of Fire “because of the sparkling effect of phosphorous in the water.
- 1842 Benjamin Moody arrived and built the first house in what is now referred to as "the town of Peru” and subsequently Riverview.
- Founding families included Moodys, Simmons, Bravos, Saffolds, Barneses, Hardings, Boyettes, Lesleys and McGriffs.
- Activities included shipping of supplies up the Hillsborough River to the Bay on a sailing vessel named Josephine.
- 1846 first church is built? the Methodist Church was built by Benjamin Moody
- 1870´s and 80´s fruit packing company flourished on the Alafia River. Citrus was packet in barrels, shipped by barge to Tampa, and then transported by steamship to New Orleans.
- 1885 the "Peruvian Mine Company and first mine was established. Minerals were mined out of the bottom of the Alafia River.
- 1874 the first post office was built. The first postmaster was J.M. Boyette.
- Between 1910 and 1920, the road between "now" Riverview was made of brick it is now US 301.
- In 1930, H.J. Moody dedicated land for an elementary school in Riverview. It was built where the Kash n´ Karry stands today.
- The library in Riverview was previous a worm farm
- During prohibition and during late 1920´ and 30´s the industry of Moonshining was an activity that helped many residents survive. Boats would travel up the Alafia River for moonshine pickup.
- Whiskey Stump on the bay at the end of Adamsville´s Road was a hollowed out tree where whiskey was stored. People would come on boats to this area would pay an old man and retrieve stored jugs of whiskey
Riverview Then & Now
Riverview, FL is one of those rare communities that has managed to maintain its small town atmosphere while perched on the outskirts of the "big city" - the City of Tampa is only about 12 miles northwest of Riverview. Riverview is a very old community which is presently undergoing an intense transition from a quiet town "where everybody knows your name" to the fastest growing community in Hillsborough County.
Riverview was first settled around 1840 and was one of the earliest settled areas in Hillsborough County, although the US Government had a fort at Tampa beginning in June of 1824.
The "old-timers" whose families have lived in Riverview for many generations are hard working, independent people who have diligently protected and preserved the heart and soul of Riverview for the future generations to come. We "newcomers" who are the fortunate heirs of their labor owe it to them now to join with them and work together side-by-side to guarantee that the special elusive "something" that emanates from the close-knit community of Riverview is not lost in the rush to develop.
The Alafia River
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
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
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 green space 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: Place a high priority and promote boating safety along the Alafia River.
Objectives: Encourage active public participation in boating safety programs. Establish and maintain a high quality open space system on the foundation of the existing parkland and ELAPP network.
Residential District
IntroductionThe Residential District roughly defines concentrations of existing and planned residential development and historic residential development patterns. The Residential District was distinguished as a separate district because the community places a high value on preserving and enhancing the small town quality and tranquil character of neighborhoods.
A number of issues emerged as the community discussed the future vision for the Residential District. Generally, there was a concern that as the result of increasing growth in Riverview, subdivisions were developing in a manner that is incongruent with the rural character and scale historically reflected by Riverview. Key among the concerns about the new development was the small lot sizes, loss of open space and lack of character and appeal. From an aesthetic standpoint, there was a shared desire to encourage new developments to include attractive landscaped entryways and design elements that provide a "sense of place" and complement the character of the community at-large. In terms of design, the issues focused on encouraging greater connectivity of the neighborhood to other destinations. The provision of continuous sidewalks, trails and roadways was also brought up as a priority. Many residents expressed a desire for amenities such as neighborhood parks, playgrounds and natural open spaces within walking and biking distance.
The Advisory Committee addressed the abovementioned issues and others through their vision and the GOPs listed below. The overriding aspiration was to preserve and enhance friendly, family-oriented neighborhood appeal in existing and newly developed residential areas.
Vision
The area south of the Alafia River and along 301 has been developed as primarily residential. The residential district appeals to people of many economic and cultural backgrounds. In this area, managed growth permits higher densities. The improved infrastructure containing fiber optic communications, sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly crosswalks, adequate lighting and signage is well maintained and controlled by strict code enforcement. Local government promptly addresses houses that fall into disrepair and neglect.
The residential areas are convenient to all other areas of Riverview due to the transit system, pedestrian-friendly streets and bike trails. Thoughtful planning has controlled the traffic and the intelligent highway system speeds residents to and from their destinations.
Goal: Develop criteria to balance the community's rural residential character with the emerging suburban style residential subdivisions as necessary.
Objectives: Encourage residential subdivisions to draw upon surrounding community character in attempts to develop and maintain an aesthetically pleasing subdivisions.
Promote walkability between residential, retail, institutional and environmental uses.
Preserve and encourage the development of peaceful and safe neighborhoods in residential areas.
Promote diversity in housing stock to offset generic subdivision "look."
Highway 301 Corridor District
Introduction
The community recognizes the US Highway 301 as the primary north-south transportation corridor and commercial gateway to their community. The corridor functions as a focal point for retail services and local conveniences. The most commonly expressed concern was regarding the "disorganized" and "shabby" appearance of buildings along US Highway 301, which reflects a strip of haphazardly placed commercial development in varying states of condition.
There is a growing concern about the level of service of the corridor as new business and residential development occurs. The community desires to update and improve the corridor both functionally and aesthetically.
There is great support for locally established businesses along US Highway 301; however, there was concern about the poor appearance and strip development pattern that characterizes the existing commercial businesses. This concern, balanced with their desire for more local restaurants, retail business, entertainment and medical services and employments opportunities led the Advisory Committee to define a separate Mixed-Use District. The Committee then distinguished the US Highway 301 as a District that required special attention to address the unique needs of the corridor.
Recognizing the great potential to redevelop and enhance the commercial viability of the US Highway 301 Corridor District, the Advisory Committee developed a vision and GOPs that would allows the community to address growth and redevelopment issues, as well as, the protection of the functional integrity corridor. The vision statement below summarizes the aspiration expressed by the Advisory Committee.
Visitors and residents know they have arrived in Riverview as they pass through gateway entrances in keeping with the Riverview Community Plan. This is a mixed-use area with high densities and a variety of businesses. The gateways are the beginning of a pleasant drive or walk along well maintained, tree lined streets with center medians, bike lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, adequate lighting and traffic signals. Strict traffic laws are enforced to protect the pedestrian and bicycle-friendly environment. The retail commercial businesses have benefited from the redesign of the US-301. The historical buildings have been marked and maintained to indicate their historical importance.
Goal: Distinguish US Highway 301 as a Vibrant Scenic Mixed-Use Corridor
Objectives: Provide a mixed-use area with high densities and a variety of businesses
Provide an attractive corridor system that contributes to the character and economic well-being of the community and provides a sense of arrival.
Provide safe roadways that efficiently handle the increase level of traffic resulting from new development.
Redevelop US Highway 301 such that it integrates alternative opportunities of travel to allow for safe walking, biking and transit.
Agricultural/Open Space District
Introduction
The Agricultural/Open Space District roughly defines concentrations of existing or planned environmental and/or ELAPP lands and historic farmland or agricultural operations. The Agricultural/Open Space District was distinguished as a separate district because the community places a high value on preserving and enhancing the rural character and natural open expanses within the community.
Generally, there was a concern that as the result of increasing growth in Riverview, development was consuming the agricultural lands and thus destroying the rural character historically reflected by Riverview. Key among the concerns about the quantity of new development was the loss of open space and environmental impact.
The Advisory Committee addressed these issues and others through their vision and the GOPs listed below. The overriding aspiration was to preserve and enhance friendly, family-oriented neighborhood appeal in existing and newly developed residential areas.
Vision
Riverview is proud of its roots and its diverse character. Maintaining active agricultural areas in the community has been a priority. Farming and agricultural businesses contributed products to the local businesses as well as other areas throughout the United States. They utilize modern methods to maintain air and water quality while producing quality, high-yield agricultural products. Proper palling policy is enforced to discourage urban sprawl and protect agricultural areas from urban encroachment.
The well attended Riverview Farmer’s Market attests to the success of this philosophy. Residents and visitors enjoy shopping at the open-air facility and come to purchase locally raised produce.
Objectives:
Support efforts to protect and enhance the viability of farming activities and operations.
Strategically acquire conservation lands to preserve the scenic beauty of rural open spaces and the farmland appeal of Riverview.
Establish and maintain a high quality open space system on the foundation of the existing parkland and ELAPP network.
Mixed-Use District
Introduction
The intent of the Mixed-Use District is to focus and direct commercial/retail/high density residential development to specific Town Center locations at identified locations throughout the community. The Mixed-Use District is as stated earlier; a major concern expressed by the community is the lack of local restaurants, retail business, entertainment and medical services and employments centers. In response to this, the district envisions a variety of retail, civic, cultural, office, recreational, and high-density residential establishments. Emphasis is given to creating mixed-use, walkable town centers that attract local and regional customers.
The creation of a new Mixed Use District provides a setting in which the development of a state of the art, livable Town Centers can be created to serve the variety of needs of the residents of Riverview while respecting the existing land uses. The vision statement below summarizes the aspiration expressed by the Advisory Committee.
Vision
In the areas where commerce, education, agriculture and residential subdivision merge, Riverview has handled the transition gracefully. Unincorporated areas maintain their neighborhood identity, while commercial businesses have upgraded their image by adhering to the community plan’s building façade and storefront criteria. Small businesses are encouraged to locate and remain in Riverview due to a business-friendly environment. The older neighborhoods enjoy an upgraded infrastructure with improved fire hydrant access, new sidewalks, curbs and drainage.
Goal: Create a new Mixed Use District (including commercial, retail, and high density residential development) that provides state of the art, livable Town Centers that support the local economy.
Objectives: Support local business while attracting a variety of needed uses and services.
Goal: Focus and direct mixed-use development to appropriate Town Center locations throughout the community while respecting the existing land uses.
Objectives: Encourage quality, liveable mixed-use development where appropriate and scaled proportionately to blend with community.
Encourage redevelopment of abandoned properties.Downtown District
Introduction:
The intent of the Downtown District is to focus and direct commercial/retail development to xxxxx location. A major concern expressed by the community is the lack of local restaurants, entertainment and neighborhood level retail business. In response to this, the district envisions a variety of retail, cultural and recreational establishments. The residents also expressed a desire to take advantage of the beautiful riverfront as a focal point for the downtown district. Emphasis is given to creating a quaint, walkable Downtown District that maximizes the use of the Riverfront’s scenic setting and attracts young and old as a destination.
There is great support for locally established businesses in the area; however, there was concern about the "shabby" dilapidated appearance of some of the buildings and the strip development pattern that characterizes the existing commercial area along US Highway 301. The Advisory Committee considered this and defined a separate US Highway 301 District to address these issues.
The creation of a new Downtown District provides a creative opportunity to build on the assets of central Riverview. The vision statement below summarizes the aspiration expressed by the Advisory Committee.
Vision:
Riverview Downtown is the hub of the community where people gather, enjoy the river, or attend one of the many outdoor entertainment event at the riverfront amphitheater.
Convenient to transportation links, this hub contains not only a variety of prosperous businesses, but also medical facilities, and a large community college and vocational center that host many social, recreational, and cultural events. Its campus seamlessly fits into the surrounding area while adding incalculable value to our community. The state of the art childcare facilities for children of all ages are conveniently located within walking distance of businesses and residential communities.
The interlocking paths and trails connect the various elements of the downtown area. The recreation park offers many athletic events both organized and pick-up games too. The tree-lined streets with colorful landscaping adds to the visual experience of Riverview. Subdued consistent signage, updated storefronts, new restaurants, bookstores and other businesses have revitalized the downtown area.
Goals:
Goal: Create a recognizable and appealing downtown district that serves as a center for retail activities and a destination for entertainment, restaurants and cultural activities and events.
Objectives:
Establish a distinctive and attractive downtown district that projects a quaint, small town appeal.
Support the downtown district by providing a variety of travel options (i.e., walking, biking, and transit) that are integrated with the existing roadway system.
Support the downtown district by providing a variety of travel options (i.e., walking, biking, and transit) that are integrated with the existing roadway system.
Promote commercial development at a scale and design that reflects the character of the community and ensure that commercial development avoids "strip" development patterns.
Promote pedestrian linkages within and beyond the Downtown District.
Encourage mixed-use development and higher densities within the Downtown District.
Develop a Main Street Center master plan for Riverview Drive and Park Drive to provide for mixed-uses and activities that would support a vibrant, active Downtown District.
Strategically located and encourage a variety of educational opportunities to serve a broad range of ages and interests.
Preserve, document and integrate historic buildings that exist in the Riverview Concept map.
Support local efforts to expand community services such as health programs, social services, library outlets, recreational centers and governmental services into the Downtown.
Keep commercial development in the Downtown District at walkable scale.
