Transportation
Our annual membership survey consistently identifies transportation improvements as our members' number one priority. An efficient local street network, improved state highway and federal interstate system and transit alternatives are crucial to the Westshore Business District.
HISTORY
In January 1993, the State of Florida funded the Westshore Alliance Transportation Management Organization (TMO), the first in the state to serve as a model for other urban areas. The TMO's purpose is to serve as the transportation advocate for Westshore and to promote commuting alternatives.
OUR COMMITMENT
We have a successful track record in promoting transportation improvements to elected officials and the agency staff responsible for funding allocations and implementing transportation projects. Improvements to the highway system and major Westshore transportation corridors receive a great deal of attention, but parking, pedestrian and intersection enhancements and improved traffic signalization are also top priorities.
TRANSPORTATION MILESTONES
Our successes are too many to mention them all, but notable transportation projects in which the Alliance had a major role are:
- Governor Bush's Mobility 2000 Program
- Intersection improvements at Columbus and Dale Mabry
- Widening of Cypress Street from West Shore Blvd. to Reo Street
- Memorial/Kennedy Interchange Improvements
- Lemon Street Extension
- "Penny For Potholes" reauthorization
- Widening and improvements to Boy Scout Boulevard
- Commuter Assistance Center at WestShore Plaza
- Funding of the Veterans Expressway
- Sidewalk additions and intersection improvements
- Installation of Intelligent Transportation System Cameras to monitor traffic conditions throughout Westshore
- Development and publication of a Westshore Mobility Plan and Pedestrian Plan
- Installation of enhanced crosswalks along West Shore Blvd.
CURRENT HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION IN WESTSHORE
Major changes are on the way for the highway system running through Westshore. The Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) Tampa Airport Interchanges project was completed in 2009 and reconstruction of I-275 between Westshore and downtown Tampa began in 2012. These projects will bring significant changes to the Courtney Campbell/Veterans/Memorial Interchange near Tampa International Airport and to I-275 from the Howard Frankland Bridge to downtown Tampa. For up-to-date information on all highway construction projects affecting the Westshore district, visit mytbi.com.
PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
Another way we are trying to improve mobility in the district is by improving pedestrian facilities in the district. We are constantly working with the City of Tampa to add new sidewalks, safe crosswalks, and recreational trails in the district.
COMMUTE OPTIONS
To further reduce traffic congestion, we provide up-to-date information on commute options to employees of member companies. Tax incentives are available for employers who subsidize certain commute alternatives. For more information contact our Director of Transportation, Chris Weber at 813-289-5488 or click here to email.
Public Transportation Links
Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority - Offers online car/vanpool matching service
HART - Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority
