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A half-dozen years ago, city and port officials were hopeful the Riverwalk might be extended through the Channel District and Port of Tampa cruise facilities, while being attentive to post-9/11 security concerns.
It was a different time and nothing materialized.
Downtown merchants in 2005 talked of how a port security official who no longer works there contended Al Qaeda would take advantage of July 4 fireworks in Channelside to shield an attack on Tampa.
The same issue of waterfront access on Channelside property has resurfaced, starting with Mayor Bob Buckhorn last month seeking a discussion about the possibilities of opening Riverwalk behind Channelside.
"I think there may be other ways to mitigate the security issues and at the same time open up what I think is one of the most valuable pieces of real estate in downtown Tampa," Buckhorn said.
The port authority board today requested the port staff to develop a proposal by December to list the pros, cons and expenses of opening waterfront areas to the public and opening the area to more public events.
For the full article, visit the Tampa Tribune.
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