BRADENTON, Fla. — Bradenton is among the fastest-growing cities in Florida. Perhaps, one feature helping attract more residents and visitors is its crown jewel: The Riverwalk.
The city expanded the Riverwalk east by about 1.5 miles more than one year ago, making it 3 miles long in total. The expansion connects the city from the west of the downtown Bradenton area to the east at Mineral Springs Park.
Just once a pile of dirt, the Riverwalk would open to the public in 2012.
A stroll from beginning to end would certainly add miles to one's steps, but with the view of the Manatee River, it may not feel like it.
Sisters Amanda White and Rosetta Roberson can be found going for a stroll most days of the week.
"I just love it. I love the vibe. It's so nice and peaceful. The people are nice," White said.
Roberson said the walks are an opportunity to bond with her sister.
"We try to spend as much time as we can," Roberson said.
However, beyond the breezy beauty, the feature has been crucial to enhancing and connecting businesses, bars and landmarks unique to "The Friendly City."
The Sarasota and Bradenton area ranked fourth in the largest number of movers in a one-way U-Haul equipment last year.
"What I enjoy seeing now, especially lately, it seems like there's a lot of younger families," Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown said of the growth the city has seen.
Brown said the road doesn't end here. With Bradenton growing, he believes future developments, whether on or off the Riverwalk, could bring more opportunities, but he emphasizes the pace must remain steady.
"Grow in a conservative smart way where you're not overgrowing," Brown said.
As the city continues to see changes, locals and tourists are glad they can stop and enjoy the view on the Riverwalk.
"It came a long way. It sure has" White said.
The views also come with signature events happening off the riverwalk. The Bradenton Blues Festival typically takes place at the end of the year and draws thousands to the city.
Currently, local recurring events like the Bradenton Market take place on Saturdays on Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton.
"Whether you've lived here five minutes or 50 years, you come to a friendly place," Brown said.