Planning for Hillsborough’s future transportation needs: A look at the LRTP and Access 2050 

If you’ve ever wondered how the transportation system is shaped for the future, you’re in the right place. The Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) is our community’s roadmap for the next 25 years. It’s more than just a set of ideas—it’s a big-picture vision for how our transportation network will evolve and perform as our region grows. 

The LRTP considers not only what we want for the future but also satisfies important federal requirements. It ensures that our planning is well-coordinated and compatible with both current and future land uses. On the practical side, projects must be included in the LRTP to be eligible for federal funding. So, it’s critical that we plan carefully. 

Looking ahead, we have a lot of planning to do. Hillsborough County is expected to grow to nearly 2 million people by 2050. That’s where Access 2050 comes in—a plan designed to ensure that our transportation network can handle the needs of this growing population.

But, with current levels of investment likely to continue, we anticipate we won’t be able to meet all the transportation demands. In fact, we’re looking at a projected budget shortfall of $29 billion over the next 20 years. This means many infrastructure, congestion, safety, and trail projects will remain on a growing backlog. 

So, what can we do? To address these needs, we have to get creative. We can focus on being more cost-effective with our investments, work closely with our regional partners to create economies of scale and scope, and pursue more discretionary grants to close the funding gap. 

Now is your chance to get involved! The TPO Board will hold a public hearing on the LRTP on October 16, 2024, and the plan is currently open for public comment. This is an opportunity to help shape the future of transportation in Hillsborough County. Whether you’re a daily commuter or someone who cares about how our community will grow, your input matters. The LRTP can be found at 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan – Plan Hillsborough. You may send your comments to [email protected]. 

The road ahead may be long, but with thoughtful planning and smart investments, we can make sure Hillsborough’s transportation future is as bright as possible.