W Architecture collaborated with Civitas, Inc to reprogram and reimagine an underutilized park on the west side of the Hillsboro River into both a community resource and a new destination on the downtown Tampa Riverwalk. Julian B. Lane Park is the new center of outdoor activity in Tampa. A public park containing a series of recreational and support facilities located on the Hillsborough River provides access to the water, space for educational programs, performances, events, picnics, training, and meditation.
Public engagement and collaborative park programming exercises resulted in the concept and program for a new boathouse, a key element of this park. The new boathouse is prominently located in direct view of downtown on a new excavated inlet. In addition to the park planning, W provided architectural services for this boathouse and all the other park buildings, including stage, restrooms, and picnic facilities. The boathouse building includes spaces necessary to house various types of boats, including single, double, and quad sculls as well as spaces for educational purposes, large events, and training. An exterior viewing deck oriented to the downtown also sits under the large roof.