Our Mission

River Tower Foundation strives to bring the community together to improve River Tower Park serving the Sulphur Springs neighborhood and to preserve the park’s historic landmark, the Sulphur Springs Water Tower.

The cause

The Sulphur Springs Water Tower is a local historic landmark in Tampa’s urban core that holds a cherished place in the memories of generations of Tampa residents and visitors. The surrounding River Tower Park is a local gathering space and source of natural beauty for the Sulphur Springs and Seminole Heights. The River Tower Foundation’s vision is to preserve the Sulphur Springs Water Tower, restore the natural ecology of the riverfront, and develop the park to foster recreation, well-being, and comradery in the community.

Sulphur Springs is a vibrant and culutrally diverse neighborhood in the heart of Tampa. The 14-acre River Tower Park is the largest greenspace in the neighborhood. The non-profit River Tower Foundation raises funds to support the Sulphur Springs Water Tower and River Tower Park. Through our efforts and advocacy, the city of Tampa invested in cleaning, repainting, and illuminating the tower in 2023. Now our attention turns to enhancing amenities to fully activate the park as a space for gathering and recreation. ​

Accomplishments

Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our community and supporters, the River Tower received some long-needed enhancements. The City of Tampa pressure washed and repainted the tower, restoring its historic character.  The City also installed a new lighting system that illuminates the tower at night in colors that coordinate with the lights in downtown Tampa!

Our efforts have brought significant attention to this important landmark and the surrounding park, ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve. We invite everyone to drive by at night and check out the stunning transformation. The River Tower now stands as a radiant beacon, shining brightly in harmony with our vibrant cityscape.

THE FESTIVAL

The River Tower Festival is annual event that celebrates the spirit and diversity of the Sulphur Springs and Seminole Heights communities. The festival features talented musicians across a variety of genres, local visual artists, food and goods from local artisans, family-friendly crafts and activities, and helps build support for our cause: protecting, preserving, and enhancing the historic Sulphur Springs Water Tower and River Tower Park. Started in 2019, the River Tower Festival has become a cherished annual tradition. Over the years, more than 3,000 Tampa Bay residents and visitors have gathered to eat, drink, dance, and celebrate their community with friends and neighbors. The festival engages the neighborhood, brings in new park patrons, raises awareness of the history and ongoing preservation needs, and activates the park as a source of recreation, nature access, and well-being.

Community partners

Sulphur Springs Museum
Community Stepping Stones
Sulphur Springs Neighborhood Association

Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association
Kids on The River
Friends of the Hillsborough River