Plant City SUN Trail Study Gets the Green Light 

We’ve got exciting news to share! On September 10, the Hillsborough TPO Board officially gave the thumbs-up to the Plant City SUN Trail Connection Study, a project nearly a year in the making and one that’s paving the way (literally!) for better trail connections in our region. 

For years, Plant City has been missing a planned link to Florida’s SUN Trail System, a statewide network of shared-use trails that opens up amazing opportunities for future funding and connectivity. This study was all about changing that—and now, there’s a plan in place. 

The study was presented to TPO advisory committees, where it got strong support and thoughtful feedback before heading to the full board. It lays out four potential routes to get Plant City connected: 

• West along Sam Allen Road toward Thonotosassa 

• West on US 92 to the Tampa Bypass Canal 

• North on Paul Buchanan Highway toward Zephyrhills 

• East on US 92 heading to Lakeland and Polk County 

Getting here took some real teamwork. The process kicked off back in January with a stakeholder meeting, followed by a community survey, technical analysis, and two more rounds of stakeholder input to help shape the final recommendations. 

Instead of choosing just one route, the study outlines a long-term strategy to go after all four options. Yep, we’re dreaming big! And with a mix of state and local funding, there’s a real shot at making these connections a reality over time. 

Want the full scoop? The final report is now live on the TPO’s website, packed with details for trail lovers, planners, and decision-makers alike.

We’re thrilled to start the next chapter and so grateful for the strong partnership with Plant City, Hillsborough County, and FDOT throughout this process. There’s still a long road ahead (pun intended), but we’re ready to roll!