Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes

 Tampa, Fla. (December 18, 2020) – For the Christmas Holiday, on Wednesday, December 23, 2020, at 1:00 PM, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will be open eastbound from the downtown area towards Brandon and will remain open towards Brandon until Monday, December 28, 2020 at 6:00 AM. At that time normal hours of operation will resume, and all traffic will be reversed to the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area.

On December 31, 2020, at 1:00 PM, the REL will be open eastbound direction from the downtown area towards Brandon (Normal Operation). The REL will remain in this configuration until January 4, 2021, at 6:00 AM when all traffic will be reversed to the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area.

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

Date: December 18, 2020

On Tuesday, January 26, 2021, from 9:30 am – 11:30 am, the Selmon West Extension team invites all media outlets (10 people maximum) in the Tampa Bay area to participate in a walk-and-talk tour of the new elevated roadway. This tour will not allow any video recordings or photography. Members of the project team will escort media participants on a guided tour starting at the west end approach ramp moving all the way to the east end bridge decks. At the end of the tour, reporters will be allowed to set-up on-camera interviews with the PIO and the Project Administrator at one of the east end ramps. Please email me your questions prior to the scheduled interview date. Please RSVP no later than by Friday, January 22, 2021.

All reporters/photographers will need to meet in the parking lot at the CEI project office located on 4811 W. Gandy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33573 (Collins Aerospace Building). All participants will need to wear a mask, closed-toe shoes (no heels), long pants and you must provide your own hardhat and vest.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (813) 613-2306.

Sincerely,

Kym Graves
Project Information Officer

Installation Marks the Final Milestone Towards Completion

Tampa, Fla. (December 9, 2020)  – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) has installed the last concrete segment in the Selmon Extension. Installation of the segment marks the final major milestone in constructing the 1.9-mile toll lane and brings the project closer to completion. Once the final segment is placed and post-tensioned, the elevated roadway will be 80% complete, with an opening date set for Summer 2021. The segment was the last of the 744 segments to be put into place, with each segment weighing approximately 72 tons.

"Completion of the Selmon Extension will provide critical connectivity between Hillsborough and Pinellas County. The west extension is a 230 million dollar project, funded fully by toll revenues and bonds without using any taxpayer dollars, that has been 25 years in the making. Like our community, we are eager to complete construction to improve travel commutes in Tampa Bay," says Joe Waggoner, CEO THEA.

Located in the median of Gandy Boulevard, the Selmon Extension will allow a choice for regional travelers: use Gandy Boulevard for local destinations or use the Selmon Extension for a direct connection (Eastbound) to the Selmon Expressway or Dale Mabry or (Westbound) to the Gandy Bridge. To maintain current access and visibility to businesses, the Selmon Extension is designed to limit its size while maximizing visibility. 

The toll lane is 30 feet high – that's approximately twice as high as a typical urban bridge with a sleek design that is intended to take the Extension out of a driver's line of sight, thus allowing the driver to see businesses and turn lanes from both sides of Gandy Boulevard. By removing the "pass-through" traffic coming to and from the Gandy Bridge that has no destination in the Gandy corridor, the Selmon Extension allows for greater capacity on Gandy Boulevard for neighborhood traffic and customers of Gandy Boulevard corridor businesses. 

The agency has incorporated the local business community and made efforts throughout the project to ease construction pains and meet their needs. The Selmon Extension will complete the link between the Selmon Expressway and the under-construction overpasses in Pinellas County that will link I-275 and the Gandy Bridge – providing connectivity from Brandon to the Beaches and back. It allows buses, commercial, and emergency vehicles that do not stop on Gandy Boulevard seamless regional connectivity.

Gifting on Gandy Encourages Holiday Shoppers to Choose Local

Tampa, Fla. (November 23, 2020) – This Holiday season, the Shop Gandy! business support campaign encourages residents and shoppers to gift more thoughtfully by shopping local at the hundreds of businesses along Gandy Boulevard for their holiday purchases.

Shopping on Gandy makes it easy to find great gifts from local businesses that need your support. Shoppers can stock up on holiday beverages from Fine Wine & Spirits or treat someone special with a gift certificate for Manis and Pedis from Daba Nails. The gift of a small, boutique gym membership at Westshore Fitness is a gift that keeps giving. Gift cards from Applebees, Mr. & Mrs. Crab, 81Bay Brewing Company, and Outback Carabbas Express are just a few items that make great stocking stuffers or gifts for family, friends, or employees. Dalton Dental is offering a $169 whitening special all month long and Tampa Laundry Company is always a win with home pick-up services. Tis the season to make an even greater impact on the South Tampa community by shopping locally and supporting Gandy Boulevard businesses.

“Now more than ever with the impacts of COVID-19, our local business community needs our support. Gandy Boulevard is one of South Tampa’s main hubs of commerce with hundreds of small and medium-sized businesses that are dedicated to providing goods and services to our community,” said Kelly Flannery, President & CEO of the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce. “As one of the founding partners of the Shop Gandy! business support campaign, we are committed to helping these businesses by encouraging local shoppers to #ShopGandy  and #ShopLocal  at businesses along the Gandy corridor for all of their holiday shopping needs.”

"This has been a hard year for our local businesses and as a small business owner, I understand the stress the pandemic has brought to industries all over the Bay. Shop Gandy is a reminder to support local and spend your holiday dollars at businesses that need your support during the Selmon Extension construction and also during a hard year for retailers," says Vince Cassidy, THEA Chairman of the Board.

This Holiday season shop local and find all your gifts from the restaurants and stores along Gandy Boulevard!

Tampa, Fla.  (November 23, 2020) – For the Thanksgiving Holiday, on Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at 1:00 PM, traffic will be reversed on the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) to the eastbound direction from the downtown area towards Brandon. The REL will remain in this configuration until 6:00 AM Monday, November 30, 2020. At that time normal hours of operation will resume, and all traffic will be reversed to the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area. Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

###

The FAV Speaker Series Features Industry Leaders and Robust Discussions on Cutting-Edge Transportation Technology in ACES (Automated, Connected, Electric, Shared)

November 17, 2020 (Virtual Event) - Beginning in 2013, the FAV Summit has attracted a global audience interested in Florida's technology-friendly policies and discussions on ACES mobility (ACES is an acronym for the four rising stars of mobility - Automated, Connected, Electric, and Shared). Since the in-person event is not possible this year, the Summit has pivoted to an online format with the FAV Speaker Series, a free 5-part series that will take place between December 2020 and April 2021.

The series kicks off on December 3rd at 11 am EST with Adam Jonas. Jonas, the Managing Director of Research at Morgan Stanley, will lead the dynamic discussion "Cars & Climate: How Big Tech, Fleets, and Cities Drive the EV Revolution." As technology continues to evolve, everything from road repairs and repaving to lane restructuring and transit projects will be affected by a city's plan to incorporate ACES into their network of transportation options and will create investment opportunities for deployment.

FAV Free Online Speaker Series: Part 1

Featured Speaker: Adam Jonas, Managing Director, Research, Morgan Stanley

Topic: "Cars & Climate: How Big Tech, Fleets, and Cities Drive the EV Revolution" 

Event Date/Time: December 3rd, 2020, 11 am EST

Register: favsummit.com/register

Registration is required for this FREE virtual event

"Innovation is not waiting. There is a global need to use technology and innovation to solve mobility problems and the FAV Speaker Series continues to reach high-tech companies, finance experts, and land-use planners to discuss what is happening now that will impact the future of driving," says Joe Waggoner, CEO Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA).

THEA, TEAMFL, the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX), the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, and Miami Dade Expressway (MDX) have worked to offer a safe format to share information on ACES that will affect city governments and county metropolitan planning organizations as they set local transportation policy in the near future. The FAV Summit and the FAV Speaker Series showcases Florida's commitment to lead the country and bring technology to the forefront.

“The evolution of transportation over the next decade will be unlike anything we have seen in our lifetime,” says State Senator Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg), a leader in automated vehicle policy solutions. “Leaders in both government and industry need access to the best ideas from those at the forefront of this transition. The FAV Speaker Series provides a unique forum to open the aperture on the future by providing an insider’s perspective to policymakers and firms, alike, to plan for the road ahead.”

The 5-Part Speaker Series will run from December 2020 - April 2021 with the 2021 FAV Summit planned for next November in-person in Orlando, FL. Please visit favsummit.com to learn more about the FAV Summit or to register for FAV Speaker Series, visit favsummit.com/register. Please click here for the FAV Speaker Series media kit.

###

ABOUT FAV SUMMIT:

The Florida Automated Vehicles (FAV) Summit has been assembling industry leaders from around the world to address Automated, Connected, Electric, and Shared technologies, operations, and policy issues since 2013. Our mission is to gain insight into how to create the ideal climate for the implementation and deployment of these technologies in Florida and beyond. For more information visit, FAVsummit.com.

Tampa, Fla. (November 11, 2020) –The Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will remain eastbound until 5:00 am on Friday, November 13, 2020. Normal hours of operation will then resume.

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

###

Tampa, Fla. (November 9, 2020) – From Monday 11-9-20 to Friday 11-13-20, the far east Brandon entrance/exit of the REL will be closed from 9 AM to 3 PM daily.  During this time, the REL will be open westbound from 78^th Street to downtown Tampa.  At 3 PM, the entire REL, including the Brandon entrance/exit, will be open eastbound until 6 AM the following morning.

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (November 6, 2020) – Monday, November 9, 2020, the Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will close at 9:00 AM and will remain closed through Friday, November 13, 2020, until 3:00 PM. Normal hours of operation will then resume.

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (October 15, 2020) – Since September 2015, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) has been working with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) as a Connected Vehicle Pilot site.  The next step in the Connected Vehicle space is to begin working with the auto industry manufacturers.  To that end, THEA is proud to announce that it is collaborating with Honda R&D Americas, LLC, Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI), and Toyota Motor North America to deploy vehicles with connected vehicle technology already installed. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) vehicles and hardware provide the next evolution of delivering safer transportation.

This collaboration is among the first of its kind where multiple OEMs are coming together in an existing Connected Vehicle (CV) deployment.  The OEM vehicles will not only interact with one another but also the existing CV Pilot participants. Each of the OEMs has selected DENSO, a leading mobility supplier with over 15 years of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) experience, as its onboard unit (OBU) provider.  Building on the CV Pilot apps, DENSO will develop a common set of CV apps for the OEMs, enabling the rapid communication between vehicles and surrounding infrastructure.

This is an important step in continuing the testing of transportation safety applications to provide drivers with the best information possible. THEA's CV Pilot applications have proven that information from connected infrastructure can benefit drivers, automakers, and road operators as a means to transmit crucial safety information. In the past 18 months, the THEA CV Pilot has warned 14 wrong-way drivers on interchange ramps, nine potential trolley crashes, and has given over 1,500-speed advisories a month on freeway exit ramps, to state a few examples.

This collaboration with Honda, Hyundai and Toyota is the next step in making connected roadways a reality in Tampa Bay.  Connecting roadways and infrastructure lays the foundation toward a technology-based transportation system – a true “Smart City.”

“Through connected vehicle and infrastructure deployment like our Smart Intersection technology in Ohio, Honda has gained an understanding of the early benefit of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) from the infrastructure side,” said Sue Bai, Chief Engineer, Automobile Technology Research Division, Honda. “The Tampa CV Pilot offers another great opportunity to collaborate with government entities and road operators to expand V2X deployment and help bring safety and mobility benefits to our customers and society sooner, ultimately working toward Honda’s vision for a collision-free society.”

“The Tampa CV pilot provides an opportunity for Hyundai Motor Group to continue research the safety, mobility, and ecological benefits of a connected vehicle in a real world environment,” said John Robb, Director, Electronic Systems Development, Hyundai Motor Group.  “Deployment of prototype OnBoard Units (OBUs) by retrofitting them into participants’ vehicles in Tampa enables us to collect data and understand customers’ experiences of this V2X technology.”

“Toyota is excited to support the V2X deployment initiative in Tampa because the realization of cooperative transportation systems, with V2X technologies, is important for creating a more safe and eco-friendly mobility future,” said Jeff Makarewicz, Group Vice President -- Advanced Mobility Research & Development, Toyota Motor North America.

In September 2020, phase 4 of the THEA CV Pilot kicked off to begin the planning for incorporating the OEMs into the pilot.  The current plan is for the OEMs to deploy six of the CV Pilot apps.  One new app will be added as well. A demonstration showcase will likely be held in Q4 of 2021.  At that time, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and THEA will highlight how OEM vehicles, equipped with prototype CV technologies, can interact with the CV Pilot vehicles and roadside units.

“This next step – integrating multiple auto manufacturers onboard technology, will show how connected vehicle technology can be incorporated into the cars coming off the line.  Honda, Hyundai and Toyota have been great to work with and have always put safety of their customers first.  This new collaboration shows just how much they are willing to work together to achieve their goal,” said Bob Frey, Innovation Director and CV Project Manager.

###

About DENSO

DENSO is a $47.6 billion global mobility supplier that develops advanced technology and components for nearly every vehicle make and model on the road today. With manufacturing at its core, DENSO invests in its 221 facilities in 35 countries to produce thermal, powertrain, mobility, electrification, & electronic systems, to create jobs that directly change how the world moves. The company’s 170,000+ employees are paving the way to a mobility future that improves lives, eliminates traffic accidents, and preserves the environment. Globally headquartered in Kariya, Japan, DENSO spent 9.9 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020. For more information about global DENSO, visit https://www.denso.com/global.

In North America, DENSO is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, and employs 27,000+ engineers, researchers and skilled workers across 51 sites in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. In the United States alone, DENSO employs 17,700+ employees across 14 states (and the District of Columbia) and 41 sites. In fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, DENSO in North America generated $10.9 billion in consolidated sales. DENSO is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion inside the company and beyond – a principle that brings unique perspectives together bolsters innovation, and pushes DENSO forward. Join us, and craft not only how the world moves, but also your career: www.densocareers.com. For more information, go to https://www.denso.com/us-ca/en/.

About Honda R&D Americas, LLC

Honda R&D Americas, LLC (HRA) began operations in America in 1975 as Honda Research America in California. Today, HRA operates 10 facilities in the U.S., responsible for creating advanced products and technologies that provide new value to Honda and Acura customers. HRA conducts all phases of product development in the U.S., from market and technology research and styling through engineering design to prototype fabrication and testing, local parts procurement, and support for mass production preparation. With major facilities in California, Ohio, North Carolina, and Florida, HRA is engaged in the development and testing of Honda and Acura automobiles, Honda powersports, and power equipment products, and also plays a lead role in the development of leading-edge safety, driver-assistive and environmental technologies. Learn more at http://www.hondaresearch.com/.

About Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc.

As one of Hyundai Motor Group's (HMG) seven global centers focused on research and development (R&D), HATCI was established in 1986 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. HATCI is HMG's design, technology and engineering division for North America. As HMG solidified its position as one of the top five global OEMs, HATCI has grown to include a strong network of engineering disciplines and increased business-focused activities to support North America's Voice of the Customer.

HATCI supports new model development for HMG's North American operations and global programs from our dedicated engineering facilities and support staff at affiliate sites located throughout the United States (Alabama, California, Georgia, Michigan, and Washington D.C.). HATCI's success in satisfying the demands of increasingly sophisticated consumers is a direct result of HMG's commitment to the future of American automotive engineering. HATCI upholds a strong R&D philosophy hinged on the creative and passionate input of all team members. This philosophy is paramount to HMG's North American operational strategy and serves as the foundation for engineering excellence and technological advancement. More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at www.hatci.com, http://worldwide.hyundai.com, or http://globalpr.hyundai.com

About THEA

A public agency led by local citizens and operating with no tax dollars, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) provides safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation services to the Tampa Bay region while reinvesting customer-based revenues back into the community. From being the owner and operator of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway to offering real-time testing and showcasing of connected vehicle and autonomous vehicle technologies, to the design and operation of the world's first reversible all-electronic toll road, THEA continues to drive the conversation on cutting-edge transportation solutions. For more information, visit  www.tampa-xway.com.

The THEA CV Pilot employs state-of-the-art technology that allows vehicles to communicate to roadside infrastructure and other vehicles about traffic, hazards, and other potential factors affecting pedestrian, vehicle, and bicycle safety.

About TMNA R&D

Toyota Motor North America Research & Development (TMNA R&D) aims to redefine next-generation cars as not simply a form of transportation, but as a fully connected vehicle. In fact, since 2003, Toyota has been awarded more patents than any other automaker, including autonomous vehicle patents (more than 1,400). Centered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Toyota puts the brightest thinkers from all across America together to focus on letting people live more safely and comfortably. Globally, Toyota spends approximately $1 million per hour on R&D to ensure that Toyota rapidly and continuously develops cutting-edge, high-quality, and appealing vehicles.

Tampa, Fla. (October 12, 2020)  -  The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is pleased to announce that Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) assigned an A2 rating to THEA’s $20.1 million Revenue Bonds, Series 2020A and $202.2 million Taxable Refunding Revenue Bonds, Series 2020B. Concurrently, Moody's affirmed THEA's outstanding A2 revenue bond ratings and confirmed that THEA’s financial outlook is stable.

“Both bond issuances show the strength of THEA’s financial condition,” said Vince Cassidy, Chairman of THEA’s Board of Directors. “These transactions demonstrate the high level of confidence investors have with THEA’s cash flow, our 6-year work program, its leadership team, and our community. We look forward to continuing THEA’s vital work to provide safe, reliable, and efficient transportation solutions for the Tampa Bay Area.”

The combined new money financing and taxable advance refunding transaction generated $25 million of proceeds to advance capital projects while still lowering THEA’s annual debt service by $1.2 million for the next 15 years. The Series 2020A Bonds, worth $20.16 million, will finance capital improvements to the expressway system, while Series 2020B Bonds will refund all or portion of the outstanding Refunding Revenue Bonds, Series 2012A.

The completed bond sales will allow for additional revenues to be spent on THEA’s 6-year work program whose goal is to invest over half a billion dollars in the Tampa Bay Area. Major components of the work program include the completion of major projects such as the Selmon West Extension and the South Selmon Safety Project, technology upgrades to the Selmon System to leverage the infrastructure of the THEA CV Pilot Deployment Program and to continue the Project Development and Environment Studies for both the eastern and southern portions of the Selmon Expressway that will evaluate future capacity needs.

###

ABOUT THEA:

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a public agency of the state, created by the Florida Legislature, to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the Selmon Greenway; designed and operates the world’s first reversible all-electronic toll road; and provides over 100,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable and financially sustainable transportation solutions.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority/

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/THEASelmon

Web: https://www.tampa-xway.com/

Tampa, Fla. (September 29, 2020) – The American Marketing Association has selected the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority’s Selmon Extension Campaign as the winner of the 2020 Marketer of the Year in B2B Marketing. The AMA Tampa Bay Award honors leading local marketing professionals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the advancement of marketing and demonstrated groundbreaking solutions to challenging marketing problems. 

“We are truly honored and humbled to receive this remarkable recognition,” said Susan Chrzan, THEA’s Director of Public Affairs and Communications. “I feel lucky to have a wonderful team by my side who shares THEA’s vision in making our community a more connected and safer place to live, work, and play.” 

In 2014, THEA identified the need to extend the Selmon Expressway in order to accommodate the future growth of the Tampa Bay region; the population was expected to double by 2040. The Selmon Extension was designed to offer greater regional connectivity for commuters and provide a more efficient and safer dedicated hurricane evacuation route for local and regional families. 

Prior to starting the project, THEA connected with businesses and homeowners along the Gandy, who would be affected by construction making sure that they were involved in the process of project design, development, and execution. 

The Expressway Authority B2B Marketing campaign included virtual town hall meetings, business owners’ engagement meetings, surveys to business owners to see when deliveries arrived, hours of operations, and prime customer hours. The government agency also worked to minimize the pain points of local businesses along the boulevard accommodating the local businesses by doing the bulk of construction overnight and keeping all business driveways open and accessible. THEA also created a Shop Gandy! marketing campaign to encourage traffic to the local businesses that would be affected during construction.

“The Marketer of the Year Award celebrates innovation and results-driven marketing campaigns in the Tampa Bay area. Congratulations to THEA for being our first transportation agency to win this award for B2B Marketing,” said Justine Burke, President of AMA Tampa Bay. 

The 5th Annual AMA Marketer of the Year ceremony was held virtually on September 10th, 2020. Click here to view the ceremony. The Selmon Extension construction is moving along, with expected completion in mid-2021.

####

ABOUT THEA:

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a public agency of the state, created by the Florida Legislature, to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the Selmon Greenway; designed and operates the world’s first reversible all-electronic toll road; and provides over 100,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation solutions.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority/

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/THEASelmon

Web: https://www.tampa-xway.com/

AMA TAMPA BAY:

American Marketing Association of Tampa Bay is a local membership organization of the national American Marketing Association for marketing professionals with the mission to be the essential community for marketers and is dedicated to the future of marketing and innovation. AMA provides access to marketing resources, networking opportunities, career resources, and monthly events with nationally recognized speakers discussing the latest trends, developments, and hot topics in marketing. 

Tampa, Fla. (September 11, 2020) – During a September 10th Virtual Town Hall Meeting (VTHM), the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) showed the different alternatives to increase capacity on the southern section of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway. These alternatives are part of the South Selmon Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study. The study began in the Summer of 2019 and analyzes alternatives to improve the efficiency and capacity of the Selmon Expressway well into the future.

The Expressway is currently operating at full capacity with an expected 700,000 new residents moving to Hillsborough County by 2045. The presented alternatives give build options to reduce cut-through traffic and congestion on local roads like MacDill Avenue, Himes Avenue, and Bayshore Boulevard. The Study’s traffic analysis determined that, by 2046, the Selmon Expressway will need eight lanes to accommodate this growth. THEA presented two alternatives as solutions, defined by impact on community and agency cost. The public is encouraged to share their opinion on these alternatives on the study website, selmonstudies.com.

During the September 10th VTHM, participants viewed renderings and heard features of two design options: Alternatives 2 and 6. As required by the process, a no-build option was presented.  However, this option does not address traffic congestion, which Hillsborough County residents rate as a high priority.

Alternative 2 expands the Expressway to eight-lanes through widening to the inside and to the outside. This alternative accommodates future traffic models through 2045 and has certain areas that warrant the erection of noise walls. Alternative 2 provides a solution for projected 2045 traffic, however, it will provide excess capacity until that time. In this option, overpass bridges are filled in and construction is to the outside and to the inside of the current roadway.

Alternatives 6 offers a more economical, two-phased, approach to meeting traffic demands by first adding only one extra lane of traffic in each direction. With construction to the outside first, that leaves open bridges in most overpasses. The agency can then expand to the eight lanes needed to accommodate projected 2045 traffic without removing any of the phase-one construction. As a result of the cost savings from this two-phased approach of Alternative 6, THEA can offer residents noise barriers through the entire length of the project.

While comments on the Study are taken throughout the process, only comments received by 5 pm on October 2, 2020, will be included in the final report. Visit the selmonstudies.com website to review the findings and to share your opinion with the agency.

“We are building for our drivers’ needs now and planning for Tampa’s growth. Being able to reach destinations with ease and keep neighborhoods free of traffic congestion, is a priority of our agency,” said THEA CEO Joe Waggoner.

For more information on the South Selmon PD&E Study, please visit the website selmonstudies.com. Click here for media press kit: https://bit.ly/33jnR4j 

Agreement with Central Florida Expressway to Process THEA E-ZPass Payments

For Immediate Release

Tampa, Fla. (September 10, 2020) – Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) announces it will be accepting E-ZPass, an electronic toll pass honored in 18 states. In late 2020, E-ZPass customers will be able to effortlessly commute non-stop on the THEA expressway system in addition to the125-mile Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) system in the Orlando metro area.

CFX is facilitating this transition by agreeing to process E-ZPass payments for THEA. CFX has been a member of the E-ZPass family since September 2018, the first in Florida, and CFX also has its own E-ZPass compatible product called the Uni.

THEA is the latest Florida tolling agency to expand interoperability with E-ZPass, joining CFX. Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise also announced it will be accepting E-ZPass on its roads in the near future. THEA believes interoperability will improve customer experience.

“Interoperability has been decades in the making,” said Joe Waggoner, THEA Chief Executive Officer. “E-ZPass customers will not encounter toll by plate invoices on the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway. While it has been a highly technical and involved process, customers win with greater convenience and less confusion.”

“This is very exciting for all of our customers that choose to travel on toll roads,” said Laura Kelley, CFX Executive Director. “The partnerships to expand customer choices and provide seamless travel throughout our state is a win-win for everyone.”

E-ZPass also works within a network of toll road agencies operating along the U.S. east coast from Florida to Maine and west through Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.

###

About THEA:

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a public agency of the state, created by the Florida Legislature, to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the Selmon Greenway; designed and operates the world’s first reversible all-electronic toll road; and provides over 100,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation solutions.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

For Immediate Release

August 10, 2020

Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority to Invest $1 Billion Over the Next Ten Years

Local Tolling Agency’s 10-Year Work Program Outlines Toll Revenue Investment for Tampa Bay

Tampa, Fla.  - The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) released its 10-Year Work Program detailing THEA's $1 Billion investment in the Tampa Bay Community.

The 6-Year plan is an outline for THEA's strategic capital investment projects. It lays out the Agency's top priorities and provides an overview of work efforts and budgetary commitments through the Fiscal Year 2025. Some projects will improve mobility in downtown Tampa by redesigning ramps and creating a more connected grid system, while others will improve walkability along the Selmon Greenway.

"We are a forward-thinking agency and an innovative leader in the Transportation Tolling Industry. THEA is looking ahead to ensure that Tampa is ready as our region's population explodes," said Executive Director Joe Waggoner.

"THEA is an economic driver for the Tampa Bay Region that has generated $1.4 Billion in business sales and created over 100,000 jobs. This Work Program ensures THEA will continue to drive Tampa Bay forward," added Vincent J. Cassidy THEA Board of Directors Chairman.

Projects included in THEA’s Six-Year Work Program are:

• The completion of the Selmon West Extension, an iconic elevated tollway that will enhance the mobility for regional travelers;
• The completion of the Selmon Safety Project designed to prevent crossover crashes;
• Meridian Avenue improvement at Twiggs Street will improve safety and access to downtown Tampa and expedite traffic to and from the REL;
• THEA CV-Pilot will enter a new phase by partnering with Hyundai to implement a real-world test site and will upgrade the current system technology, paving the way for connected and automated BRT routes;
• Selmon Greenway Improvements will enhance Tampa’s urban core walkability and;
• Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Studies for both the Eastern and Southern portions of the Selmon Expressway to evaluate future capacity need.
• PD&E Studies for Whiting Street and Nebraska Avenue that look at redesigning ramps and creating a more connected grid system once the removal of Ardent Mills is complete.

For more information regarding THEA’s 10-Year Work Program, please visit https://www.tampa-xway.com/about-the-authority/.

###

ABOUT THEA:

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a public agency of the state, created by the Florida Legislature, to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the Selmon Greenway; designed and operates the world’s first reversible all-electronic toll road; and provides over 100,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable and financially sustainable transportation solutions.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority/
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/THEASelmon
Web: https://www.tampa-xway.com/

Tampa, Fla. (July 28, 2020)  -  The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is pleased to announce that Vincent J Cassidy has been re-elected to serve as the Chair of the Board of Directors.

“I am grateful to continue my service as Chairman,” said Mr. Cassidy. “As Chairman I will ensure that our Board continues to be strategic in our planning and accountable to our community. I am proud of the dedicated men and women of THEA who work tirelessly to provide safe, reliable, and efficient transportation solutions to the Tampa Bay Area, and it is my honor to guide this organization.  I am also fortunate to serve with my fellow Board Members; they give so much of their time and talents to govern this Authority.”

Mr. Cassidy is the founder of Majesty Title Services, now a division of LandCastle Title Group, LLC, and is responsible for sales, marketing, strategy, and overall management of the company. He spent 25 years with JPMorgan Chase & Co, most recently as a Senior Vice President managing a global technology business providing electronic banking services to the firm's wholesale clients.  He is the Managing Member of Florida Investors Capital, LLC, and CassCap, LLC.  He is also a founding Fellow of The Vortex Institute, a local organization focused on discussion and subsequent action surrounding issues affecting our community.

In addition to re-electing Cassidy as Chair, the Board also elected Bennett Barrow to continue as THEA’s Vice Chairman and Daniel Alvarez to continue as Secretary.

Mr. Barrow is President of Barrow Asset Management, a registered investment advisor in Tampa, Florida. After graduating from the University of the South (Sewanee) in 2002, Mr. Barrow worked in Madrid, Spain, and Santiago, Chile as a pension reform analyst. He received his Certified Financial Planner TM designation from the University of South Florida Financial Planner Program in 2011 and sits on the Board of Trustees at Berkeley Preparatory School, Board of Directors at St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, and the Advisory Committee for High Risk Hope.

Mr. Alvarez serves as the Chief Communications Officer for the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office, and is a veteran of the United States Army, serving in South Korea at the US Army Airborne School where he was a jumping member of the historic Fort Benning Command Exhibition Parachute Team, “The Silver Wings.” He was also the founder and managing member of The Alvarez Legal Group, P.L. 

####

ABOUT THEA:

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a public agency of the state, created by the Florida Legislature, to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the Selmon Greenway; designed and operates the world’s first reversible all-electronic toll road; and provides over 100,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable and financially sustainable transportation solutions.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority/

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/THEASelmon

Web: https://www.tampa-xway.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POC:    Sue Chrzan
[email protected]
813.272.6740 ext. 130

Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Connected Vehicle Pilot Program Begins New Phase

Tampa, Fla., (June 10, 2020) - As the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) continues collaborating with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) as a Connected Vehicle Pilot site, the next step to creating a connected transportation system is working with the auto industry. THEA is proud to announce that we have partnered with Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI), to use Connected Vehicle (CV)-ready Hyundai vehicles and hardware in the CV Pilot deployment to provide the next evolution of a commitment to delivering safe transportation.

This is an important step in continuing the testing of transportation safety applications to provide drivers with the best information possible. THEA's CV Pilot applications have proven that information from connected infrastructure can benefit drivers, automakers, and road operators as a means to transmit crucial safety information. In the past 18 months, the THEA CV Pilot has warned 14 wrong-way drivers on interchange ramps, nine potential trolley crashes, and has given over 1,500-speed warnings a month on freeway exit ramps, to state a few examples.

This partnership with Hyundai is the next step in making connected roadways a reality in Tampa Bay. "Hyundai has steadily invested in research and development, furthering our commitment towards future innovations such as connected vehicle technology," said John Robb, Director, Electronic Systems Development, HATCI. "Working together with government organizations, such as THEA and other industry partners, allows us to better understand the benefits of these advanced features, which may ultimately create a safer and more efficient driving environment."

In September 2020, phase 3 of the THEA CV Pilot will be complete. At that time, Hyundai and THEA will hold a demonstration to showcase how OEM vehicles equipped with prototype CV technologies can interact with the CV Pilot vehicles and roadside units. "The next step is integrating auto manufacturer onboard technology. I believe this will be a dramatic improvement in how we are able to communicate with vehicles. Hyundai has been a great partner, and this will be an exciting time." Says Bob Frey, Project Manager for THEA's CV Pilot project.

###

About THEA's Connected Vehicle Pilot

In 2015, The USDOT awarded $18.5 million in federal grant monies to the Tampa-Hillsborough Expressway Authority to conduct an innovative CV pilot.

The THEA CV Pilot employs state-of-the-art technology that allows vehicles to communicate to roadside infrastructure and other vehicles about traffic, hazards, and other potential factors affecting pedestrian, vehicle, and bicycle safety.

About Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc.

As one of Hyundai Motor Group's (HMG) seven global centers focused on research and development (R&D), HATCI was established in 1986 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. HATCI is HMG's design, technology and engineering division for North America. As HMG solidified its position as one of the top five global OEMs, HATCI has grown to include a strong network of engineering disciplines and increased business-focused activities to support North America's Voice of the Customer.

HATCI supports new model development for HMG's North American operations and global programs from our dedicated engineering facilities and support staff at affiliate sites located throughout the United States (Alabama, California, Georgia, Michigan, and Washington D.C.). HATCI's success in satisfying the demands of increasingly sophisticated consumers is a direct result of HMG's commitment to the future of American automotive engineering. HATCI upholds a strong R&D philosophy hinged on the creative and passionate input of all team members. This philosophy is paramount to HMG's North American operational strategy and serves as the foundation for engineering excellence and technological advancement.

About THEA

A public agency led by local citizens and operating with no tax dollars, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) provides safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation services to the Tampa Bay region while reinvesting customer-based revenues back into the community. From being the owner and operator of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway to offering real-time testing and showcasing of connected vehicle and autonomous vehicle technologies, to the design and operation of the world's first reversible all-electronic toll road, THEA continues to drive the conversation on cutting-edge transportation solutions. For more information, visit  www.tampa-xway.com.

More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at www.hatci.com, http://worldwide.hyundai.com, or http://globalpr.hyundai.com

Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes Memorial Day, 2020 Schedule

Tampa, May 19, 2020 – In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will open eastbound at 1 pm on Friday, May 22, 2020, and will remain eastbound until 6:00 am, Tuesday, May 26, 2020.  At that time, the REL will be open in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area, resuming normal operation hours.

Motorists are advised that the REL hours are subject to change without notice for maintenance and construction work.  Please check www.tampa-xway.com for updates.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.                                                     

###

Traffic Advisory: Mainline Closures on the Selmon Expressway

Tampa, Fla. (May 12, 2020) – Starting Friday night at 8:00 PM, 5-15-20, there will be lane closures, Selmon westbound, from 78^th Street to Maydell Drive. These lane closures will continue until Sunday morning 5-17-20 at 5:00 AM. From 5:00 AM Sunday morning until 6:00 AM Monday morning 5-18-20, the Selmon Expressway westbound will be closed from the US 301 exit to the 50^th Street exit. The detour route is 301 North to Adamo Drive then go west on Adamo Drive to 50^th Street, then south on 50^th Street to the Selmon westbound.

We regret any inconvenience this may cause our customers. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time.

Motorists are cautioned to drive carefully through the construction area.

For more information, call 813-272-6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

###

Media Alert

Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes Schedule

Tampa, Fla. (May 7, 2020) – On Monday, May 11, 2020, the Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will maintain normal operation at 6:00 AM, with all traffic moving in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area. There will, for the time being, be NO 10:00 AM “split”. Operational times will be 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the westbound direction and 1:00 PM till the following day at 6:00 AM in the eastbound direction. Weekends will be eastbound from 1:00 PM Friday to 6:00 AM Monday.

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email info@tampa‐xway.com.

REL Schedule for post covid-19

###

Media Alert

Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes

Tampa, Fla. (March 20, 2020) - Beginning today, March 20, 2020, the Reversible Express Lanes of the Selmon Expressway will remain in an eastbound direction until further notice.

For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected].

###

Message from CEO, Joe Waggoner

To our Tampa Bay community,

Like everyone, we are facing an unprecedented situation as we deal with preventing the spread of COVID-19. We realize that you need reliable and safe travel no matter what.

Starting today, March 18, 2020, we are suspending walk-up (in-person) collection payments at our collection center for 30 days, as well as walk-up (in-person) assistance at the THEA offices.

Rest assured, you can pay online, by visiting www.payTHEAtolls.com or you can make a payment over the phone by calling our toll-free number, 1-877-258-5205.

For now, work continues on our two construction projects. You can keep up-to-date on lane closures and detours for the Selmon Extension project here at selmonextension.com/updates, and the South Selmon Safety Project here at tampa-xway.com/south-selmon-safety-project/.

I encourage you to stay current on advice from the CDC and Hillsborough County and follow the recommended guidelines to keep yourself and others safe. We know that we are all being affected by this challenge. Please stay safe and take care of yourselves as we go through this together.

Sincerely,

Joe Waggoner

For Immediate Release

Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Sponsors USF – Selmon Balsa Bridge Design Competition

Tampa, Fla. (February 12, 2020) – Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) announces its sponsorship of the University of South Florida (USF) College of Engineering’s 28th annual Bridge Competition. The competition will take place at USF’s Engineering Expo on February 22, 2020, and is open to all Hillsborough and Pinellas County middle and high school students. This year’s student winners will receive a private, engineer-led tour of the Selmon Extension construction project to give students a behind-the-scenes view of STEM principles in action.

The USF-Selmon Balsa Bridge Design Competition began in the 1980s as a student-run project to connect the University with area under-represented middle and high school students and provide a fun, extra-educational enrichment opportunity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) philosophies. The competition’s theme of Design It, Build It, Break It! allows teams of three students to design and build balsa wood model bridges and test their load capacities.

Teachers and student teams are encouraged to watch workshop videos on the competition’s webpage (https://usfbalsabridge.weebly.com/workshop-videos.html), which provide an opportunity to prepare for the competition, and then work with an engineering mentor to develop lesson plans that incorporate the fields of engineering and design with math and science through bridge-building.

Through its partnership with USF, THEA seeks to provide mentorship, encourage the STEM mindset, and raise educational opportunities for Tampa Bay area students.  The USF-Selmon Balsa Bridge Design Competition is a branch of THEA’s Selmon STEM Scholarship Program, which supports through education and exposure to transportation careers, USF engineering students who are graduates of Hillsborough County high schools.

For more information on the USF-Selmon Balsa Bridge Design Competition, visit https://usfselmonbridgebuilding.com/.   For rules and regulations, or to register for the competition, visit https://usfselmonbridgebuilding.com/registration/.

Brandon, Fla. (January 23, 2020) – Drivers traveling from southbound I-75 to the Selmon Expressway (SR 618 - Exit 256) will use a new exit beginning early Tuesday morning, January 28.

The new exit point will be just south of Exit 257 to SR 60 (about one-half mile north of the existing exit), meaning motorists will need to make the decision to exit to the Selmon Expressway sooner. Once on the exit ramp, drivers should remain alert to traffic entering from westbound SR 60 merging from the right side. After that merge area, drivers will continue southward on the frontage ramp lanes and follow the signs to the Selmon Expressway.

This new southbound I-75 exit point replaces the current exit ramp to the Selmon Expressway and is a permanent change to the interchange configuration in this area. Drivers should be extra cautious about the new traffic pattern and remain alert to construction workers in the area.