FDOT presented its tentative list of projects to be funded over the next five years at a public hearing held on December 16th. With the annual update of the Work Program this year, FDOT announced the advancement of several projects along with additional funding for several MPO priorities.
Most notable is the design and construction of the Howard Frankland Bridge reconstruction in fiscal year 2019. This multi-million dollar project will combine replacing the northbound span of I-275 and consideration of a future transit connection across Old Tampa Bay.
FDOT also added funding to reconfigure the SR60/ Memorial Highway interchange with I-275. This project will connect the recently completed Tampa Airport Interchange, the widening of I-275 east to Downtown Tampa and the Howard Frankland Bridge reconstruction. This project is a critical piece for the Westshore business district and the entire Tampa Bay Region.
Other priority projects to be funded in the next five years include advancing the Bruce B Downs Boulevard widening, additional bus replacements to maintain a reliable fleet, and several walk and bike priorities.
The FDOT Work Program is incorporated into the MPO’s Transportation Improvement Program, which will take effect next October in fiscal year 2014.
The Work Program is on the MPO’s agenda for January 7, 2014. More information can be found on the MPO’s website, including a full listing of projects in the program, or by contacting Wally Blain at 813/273-3774 x361.