TIP Amendment to study restoring bus service to pre-COVID levels

Map of HART bus routes as of July 2024

Published
October 17, 2024

Contact
Elizabeth Watkins – [email protected] – 813-582-7382

Last updated
October 23, 2024

At the upcoming Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Board meeting on November 6, 2024, exciting new developments will be on the table. A proposed amendment to the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) could bring significant benefits to Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) and the community at large.

The amendment includes two critical projects: the HART Route Restoration Planning Grant and the HART Emergency Relief for Hurricane Ian. The $300,000 Route Restoration Planning Grant will fund the evaluation of cost-effective solutions to improve routes disrupted by the pandemic, helping restore vital transit services. Meanwhile, the $2.15 million Emergency Relief project will reimburse HART for operating expenses incurred during Hurricane Ian, ensuring the system remains resilient during future emergencies.

Beyond these two projects, the TPO Board will also address amendments to the 2024 Priority List and Program Changes, reflecting the recommendations of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC). Key updates to project rankings include:

  • Airport to Downtown Premium Transit: staying at #64
  • TECO Streetcar Extension: moving from #64 to #65
  • Brightline Multi-modal Connections: jumping from #73 to #66
  • HART CSX Study: advancing from #96 to #95

These changes align with the TPO’s ongoing commitment to improving transportation options for all. In addition, TPO staff will introduce proposed modifications to enhance the Priority List development process, setting the stage for 2025’s priorities.

To review the full amendment and details of the individual projects, visit the Hillsborough TPO website:

• HART TIP Amendments: Route Restoration Planning Grant & Emergency Relief Hurricane Ian
• 2024 TPO Priority List Amendment

The public is invited to provide feedback on the amendment until 3 p.m. on November 5th, 2024, through the following channels:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mail: Hillsborough TPO, Attn: Cheryl Wilkening, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., 18th Floor, Tampa, FL 33602
  • Voicemail: (813) 272-5940 (press 9)
  • Social media: Leave comments on social media including on the TPO’s Facebook Page
  • Meeting Participation: Register to participate in the meeting in person or virtually.

For further inquiries, contact Elizabeth Watkins at [email protected] or (813) 582-7382.

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Plan Hillsborough 2026