TAMPA -- It's a good time for Tampa.
- Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn touched on Tampa's past, present and future
- State of the City address took place at new Julian B. Lane riverfront park
- RELATED: West River project groundbreaking
That was the overwhelming message today during Mayor Bob Buckhorn's enthusiastic State of the City address.
Buckhorn, giving his final State of the City address, hit on the city's latest accomplishments, plans, goals and projects.
"Just look at us now," Buckhorn said. "Our journey for the last seven years has prepared us for this moment."
The mayor touched on the city's history and its neighborhoods, low unemployment, job creation, importance of parks and a growing economy.
He also thanked police for its response to last year's Seminole Heights killer scare and thanked first responders and management during the Hurricane Irma response.
The mayor also delivered sharp attacks on state legislature and made a plea for future upgrades to transportation.
"For the urban core, rail is a part of the solution," he said, adding rail should be put up to a vote.
The mayor delivered his address while unveiling the city's latest jewel - the revamped Julian B. Lane waterfront park. The park officially opens this weekend with a series of grand opening events and concerts.
The park, which represents the city's largest investment in green space in its history, is also located along the west bank of the Hillsborough River where redevelopment is underway.
Since coming into office in 2011, the mayor's office has set out to transform the city by remaking downtown and area neighborhoods.
"In Tampa, we are on common ground," Buckhorn said. "Seven years ago, I asked you to join me on this journey.
"I told you it was time for Tampa to get its wings. (And now)...we are becoming everything that we aspire to be."