News Archive 2021

Tampa, Fla. (December 20, 2021) – For the upcoming holiday, on Thursday, December 23, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., 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 27, 2021, at 6:00 a.m. 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 30, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., the REL will be open in the eastbound direction from the downtown area towards Brandon (normal operation). The REL will remain in this configuration until January 3, 2022, at 6:00 a.m. 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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

The roadway has been honored with eight awards since opening in 2021

December 20, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is proud to announce that the Selmon West Extension has been honored with eight awards in 2021. The elevated 1.9-mile toll lane opened in April 2021, providing a vital connection for Hillsborough and Pinellas commuters. It has since been recognized for its design, function, and outreach efforts with local, national, and industry pinnacle honors. The bridge has won the following achievements:

• Road & Bridges Top 10 Bridge in America
• IBTTA Toll Excellence Award
• FTBA Best in Construction, Expressway Authority Project of the Year
• CMAA Florida Project Achievement Award in Transportation
• ASBI Bridge of Excellence Award
• Hillsborough Planning Commission Planning & Design Award
• ACEC Florida Grand Engineering Excellence Award
• GTSITE Project of the Year

Construction of the $230 million Selmon West Extension project began in late 2018 and opened to the public on the afternoon of April 19, 2021. The bridge utilizes an innovative design that has never been used before in the United States. The bridge's distinctive fins provide a useful purpose by supporting the bridge deck, enabling longer span lengths between pier columns, and reducing height cross-section for the precast segments. While most bridges stand 15' off the ground, business owners along Gandy Boulevard were concerned that their businesses' sightline would be blocked by a bridge that stood only at 15' tall. THEA listened to their concerns and built the Selmon Extension 30' from the ground to the bottom of the bridge.

"This project has been 25 years in the making, and I am thrilled with the reception within our industry and beyond. THEA challenged our design-build team to develop an innovative and aesthetically pleasing design that would improve neighborhood traffic flow along the Gandy corridor and provide a seamless commute for pass-through traffic. These awards substantiate the extensive work we did to make this project a success," said THEA Executive Director Joe Waggoner.

The Selmon West Extension offers drivers a choice, either stay on Gandy Boulevard for local destinations or use the Selmon West Extension for regional "pass-through" trips. The cost to use the Extension is $0.95 with SunPass or $1.31 with Toll-By-Plate billing. Toll revenues and bonds fully funded the Selmon West Extension and no taxpayer dollars were used.

The project is the second time in 15 years that THEA has built a first-of-its-kind facility in the United States. In 2006, THEA completed the Selmon Expressway's Reversible Express Lanes (REL) with all-electronic tolling. The REL was the world's first reversible, all-electronic, elevated express lane project.

Tampa, Fla. (December 3, 2021) – There will be asphalt repairs that necessitate nighttime ramp closures to the Selmon Expressway in the week ahead. Please slow down, drive with caution and follow detour signage. The following ramp closures are for the hours of 7:00 p.m. through 6:30 a.m.:

• Tuesday, December 7: Westbound Falkenburg Road entrance ramp closed
• Wednesday, December 8: Westbound Kennedy Boulevard exit ramp closed

The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

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Tampa, Fla. (December 1, 2021) – For Thursday, December 2, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. traffic will be reversed on the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) to the eastbound direction from the downtown area toward Brandon. The REL will remain in this configuration until 6:00 a.m. on Friday, December 3, 2021. 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 [email protected].

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Tampa, Fla. (November 24, 2021) – There will be intermittent nighttime ramp closures to the Selmon Expressway for the next couple of weeks for routine resurfacing of the Expressway. Please slow down, drive with caution and follow detour signage. The following ramp closures are for the hours of 7:00 p.m. through 6:30 a.m.:

• Tuesday, November 30: Westbound 78th Street entrance ramp closed and Westbound Kennedy Boulevard exit ramp closed

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]@xway.com.

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Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes

Tampa, Fla. (November 24, 2021) – For the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 25, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. traffic will be reversed on the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) to the eastbound direction from the downtown area toward Brandon. The REL will remain in this configuration until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, November 29, 2021. 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 [email protected]@xway.com.

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Media Alert Contact Information: Krystina Steffen

813-272-6740

[email protected]

Selmon Expressway Resurfacing Closures

Tampa, Fla. (November 16, 2021) – There will be intermittent nighttime ramp closures to the Selmon Expressway for the next couple of weeks for routine resurfacing of the Expressway. Please drive with caution and follow detour signage. The following ramp closures are for the hours of 7:00 p.m. through 6:30 a.m.:

• Monday, November 22: Westbound 78th Street entrance and exit ramp closed
• Tuesday, November 23: Westbound Falkenburg Road entrance ramp closed and Eastbound U.S. 301 exit ramp closed

Motorists are advised that the hours of operation on the Reversible Express Lanes are subject to change without notice for construction/maintenance work. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Veteran’s Day 2021 Hours on the

Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes

Tampa, Fla. (November 11, 2021) – For the Veteran’s holiday on Thursday, November 11, 2021, the Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will maintain normal operation at 6:00 a.m., with all traffic moving in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area. At 10:00 a.m., all traffic will be reversed to the eastbound direction from the downtown area to Brandon. On Friday, November 12, 2021, normal hours of operation will resume.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

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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 200,000 daily trips with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation service.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority

Instagram: instagram.com/theaselmon

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tampa-hillsborough-expressway-authority

Twitter: twitter.com/THEASelmon

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCNFl4QVHuqyXNyjcEFTh17Q

Web: tampa-xway.com

Participating Drivers Will Receive Toll Rebates on the Selmon Expressway

Tampa, Fla. (November 1, 2021) – Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is moving to the next stage in testing and implementing connected vehicle technology in Tampa with four auto manufacturers on board.

THEA is recruiting volunteer drivers who drive a Honda, Acura, Hyundai, Kia or Toyota for the THEA Connected Vehicle Pilot. This research project has the potential to improve driving safety in downtown Tampa and beyond. Eligible participating drivers receive up to a 30% rebate for tolls on the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway.

In this phase, THEA expects to equip approximately 300 privately owned automobiles with connected vehicle technology by late 2022. Volunteers’ automobiles will be outfitted with devices that “talk” to other connected vehicles and to roadway infrastructure to help prevent crashes.

Volunteers can experience the benefits of connected vehicle technology in several ways. For example, the seven new applications currently being tested and deployed in Tampa are:

• Forward collision warning
• Emergency electronic brake light warning
• Intersection movement assist
• Wrong-way entry
• Pedestrian collision warning
• Ramp deceleration warning
• Red light violation warning

Because the THEA CV Pilot is a research project, drivers must meet certain criteria in order to participate. For example, they must be 18 years of age or older, have a Florida driver’s license, own either a Honda, Acura, Hyundai, Kia or Toyota, and drive regularly on the Selmon Expressway or in the downtown deployment area. Prospective participants must take the online prescreening questionnaire at theacvpilot.com/2021-survey/ to determine whether they are eligible.

After confirming their eligibility, prospective participants will schedule an appointment for equipment installation and training. Qualified technicians will install the equipment into Hyundai, Kia and Toyota vehicles by appointment at the THEA CV Pilot Facility, 215 S. 78th St., Tampa, FL 33619, Honda drivers will be at Brandon Honda located at 9209 E. Adamo Dr. Tampa, FL 33619 and Acura drivers will be at Maus Acura at 11025 N. Florida Ave. Tampa, FL 33612. The equipment is free, and participating drivers will receive up to a 30 percent toll rebate for travel on the Selmon Expressway, up to a maximum of $550. The THEA CV Pilot Phase 4 will conclude in late 2022.

The THEA CV Pilot aims to demonstrate the safety, mobility, and environmental benefits of connected vehicle technology. Tampa is one of just three sites deploying the technology as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployment Program. The other two sites are New York City and the Interstate 80 corridor in the state of Wyoming. The Tampa project is the only one that involves local residents driving their own cars.

THEA’s partners on the $21 million project include the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Florida Department of Transportation, the City of Tampa, University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research, Hillsborough Community College, HNTB Corporation, Siemens, Global-5 Communications and Brandmotion.

Tampa area residents who are interested in participating as drivers or pedestrians are encouraged to take the pre-screening questionnaire online at theacvpilot.com/2021-survey/.

Watch video

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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 200,000 daily travelers with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation solutions. For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit tampa-xway.com.

Tampa, October 11, 2021 – Repairs on the Selmon Extension will begin tonight starting at 9 p.m. EST and go through 6 a.m. EST on October 12, 2021. Ramp A off Dale Mabry Highway will be closed as well as the westbound section of the Selmon West Extension. All ramps and sections will resume normal operation after 6 a.m. EST on October 12, 2021.

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

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Tampa, FL (July 6, 2021) – On Tuesday, July 6, 2021, the Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will open in the eastbound direction from the downtown area to Brandon at 12 pm. The REL will stay in this configuration until 7 am Wednesday, July 7, 2021, when the westbound direction will open 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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

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June 4, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – The Transportation and Expressway Authority Membership of Florida (TEAMFL) recognized Sue Chrzan, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), with their most prestigious award, the Bob Hartnett Leadership Award. The award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the transportation industry and communities in the State of Florida and has opened doors for others to learn and grow in the transportation industry.

”Sue Chrzan stands out for her exemplary career and for the thousands of professionals and leaders inspired to follow in her footsteps, to serve in the transportation industry, and improve the lives of residents in their communities. She takes a grassroots approach with public outreach and does an amazing job humanizing the agency. She and THEA set the standard of how to be a good community partner,” says Brady Nepple, Executive Director, TEAMFL.

TEAMFL was formed in 1997 to facilitate the exchange of information among toll agencies and the transportation industry. Its mission is to promote a financially sustainable, user fee-based transportation model by providing a platform for sharing the latest transportation advances and best practices. The award was presented at the TEAMFL quarterly meeting in Tampa titled “Transportation Strategies.”

“I am honored to receive such high recognition from an organization that I admire. Working together with industry leaders from around the state gives us all an opportunity to implement best practices and innovations which can make our communities safer for all forms of mobility,” says Chrzan.

Sue Chrzan has served as the Director of Public Affairs for the past fifteen years at THEA, Tampa Bay’s local tolling agency. Throughout her career, she has been recognized as a thriving community leader and public servant. As THEA’s Director of Public Affairs and Communications, Sue successfully created and implemented the communication blueprints and community outreach strategies for the Selmon Expressway conversion to an All-Electronic Tolling System and the opening of the Selmon Extension earlier this year.

The Selmon Expressway was the first expressway in Florida to be completely electronic. Her agency is recognized for utilizing driving innovations and spearheading community initiatives that lead to better mobility and increased driver safety. With the agency investing half a billion in Tampa Bay projects over the next five years, Sue’s comprehensive approach includes presentations to elected officials, community leaders, and key stakeholders, community meetings, and numerous public involvement opportunities. She has built a credible and trusting relationship between THEA and project stakeholders, including local residents, regional travelers, business leaders, community organizations, and elected officials with the strategy of early and continuous open communication and timely project information updates.

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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 200,000 daily trips with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation service.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: facebook.com/TampaHillsboroughExpresswayAuthority

Instagram: instagram.com/theaselmon

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tampa-hillsborough-expressway-authority

Twitter: twitter.com/THEASelmon

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCNFl4QVHuqyXNyjcEFTh17Q

Web: tampa-xway.com

June 2, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – After four decades in the transportation industry, Joe Waggoner, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), has announced his intention to retire in February 2022. THEA's Board of Directors accepts this news with regret – and with gratitude for Waggoner's 14 years of remarkable service to the agency.

Waggoner has built a legacy of organizational leadership, fiscal acumen, and innovation throughout his distinguished career. " One of the most important responsibilities any board has is to put into place a process to find and hire a great leader. Our next CEO will have very big shoes to fill. Joe has been an incredible steward at THEA and a community leader. We will search far and wide for his successor and I am confident because of Joe’s success, we will attract many candidates that want to lead our team of exceptional professionals and continue the momentum he has created in Tampa.” said Vince Cassidy, Chairman of THEA’s Board of Directors.

In August 2007, after a nationwide search, Joe Waggoner was chosen to lead the agency. As Executive Director and CEO, he was faced with the challenging task of making the agency financially independent and able to take on projects that would benefit the Tampa Bay region. Under Waggoner's leadership, THEA gained financial independence, expanded its jurisdictional service area, restructured its debt, and was able to produce its first-ever 10-year work program with just over a billion dollars worth of projects in the program.

"Joe's sound fiscal leadership strategies have helped the agency to become a top-ranked credit performer. During his tenure, THEA has risen 3-steps on national bond rating scales, delivered a project that was over 25 years in the making, and converted the Selmon Expressway to All-Electronic Tolling, saving millions of dollars in operating costs," said Cassidy.

Known for progressive solutions to transportation issues, Waggoner’s leadership and vision help land the Authority a $17 million USDOT grant to help fund the Connected Vehicle Pilot. This program has garnered THEA international recognition as a leader in the ACES – Automated, Connected, Electric and Shared – technology space. The THEA CV Pilot allows vehicles and infrastructure to communicate for delivery of a safer and more efficient travel experience for all modes of travel. This project was inducted into the ITS World Congress Hall of Fame in 2019.

Waggoner has been a community champion and critical leader in promoting partnerships for multimodal transportation, transit-oriented development, and walkable neighborhoods. The Selmon Greenway accommodates pedestrians and cyclists, mostly in the shade of the Expressway, and connects the City's Riverwalk to Ybor City. Pocket parks line the Greenway with public art commissioned by THEA, places to sit, and landscaping to enjoy. The first of these pocket parks along the Selmon Greenway was the Deputy Kotfila Memorial Dog Park. The Dog Park has plenty of room for dogs (and people) of all sizes to socialize, with separate play areas for small and large dogs.

“THEA is recognized locally, statewide, nationally, and internationally as a premier tolling agency with a forward-thinking approach to finding solutions to regional congestion. This team has completed dozens of transportation, finance, and community relations projects, won dozens of awards, and has been used as a model for utilizing technology to enhance mobility,” said Joe Waggoner.  “That’s a result of excellent leadership by our Board of Directors and hard work by a lot of amazing and talented people.  With the next Executive Director, I hope that the trend will continue.”

THEA is actively recruiting for the Executive Director position and intends to hire its next leader in October of 2021. Applications for the position close on July 16, 2021.

Tampa, May 27, 2021 – In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will open eastbound at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 28, 2021, and will remain eastbound until 6:00 am, Tuesday, June 1, 2021.  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 [email protected]‐xway.com.                                         

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May 26, 2021 (Ann Arbor, MI) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Connected Vehicle Pilot (THEA CV Pilot) is a $22 million project jointly funded by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA). The THEA CV Pilot is deploying seven connected vehicle applications in collaboration with auto manufacturers: Honda, Hyundai and Toyota using DENSO On-Board Units and Siemens Roadside Units at the American Center of Mobility (ACM) testing facility in Ann Arbor, MI from May 24 - 28, 2021.

ACM testing marks a milestone for THEA in Phase 4 by testing Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) hardware applications developed as part of the Pilot based on the original THEA CV Pilot applications. At the testing center the THEA CV Pilot team plans to test seven connected vehicle applications:

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Emergency Electronic Brake Light (EEBL)
• Intersection Movement Assist (IMA)
• Wrong Way Entry (WWE)
• Pedestrian Collision Warning (PCW)
• End or Ramp Deceleration Warning (ERDW)
• Red Light Violation Warning (RLVW)

This will be the first time all seven applications will be tested during one ACM event. The Pilot successfully completed its first three phases of planning, deployment, and real-time data collection and this is an important step to deploying in Tampa.

During Phase 4, testing the viability of connected vehicle interoperability using OEM hardware into THEA’s program will establish not only the efficiency of CV-equipped Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota vehicles, but that the technology can be integrated into actual transportation systems to enhance the safety, mobility, and traffic reliability for drivers and pedestrians.

“The THEA CV Pilot has been successful in implementing CV technology for sending warnings in real-time and documenting the data for use by the industry for future deployments. We are working with the OEMs to using technology to make it safer to drive. Our team’s goal is to one day eradicate crashes all together, which will require everyone working together. This has been a great collaboration showing how the transportation industry can work together to solve problems.” says Bob Frey, Director of Planning and THEA CV Project Manager.

THEA’s CV Pilot was one of the first of its kind to recruit actual drivers for real-time data on the CV experience. After recruitment of drivers begins for Phase 4, OEMs will utilize local dealerships to install the CV equipment.

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 About THEA CV Pilot

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Connected Vehicle Pilot, funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, 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.

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.

If interested, please learn more about the THEA CV Pilot, please visit our website theacvpilot.com.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: facebook.com/TampaCVProgram

Twitter: twitter.com/Tampa_CV

YouTube: bit.ly/2S2WQjL

May 11, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.) - On May 20, 2021, at 6:30 pm, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) will host a Virtual Alternatives Meeting to discuss the Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study. The Whiting Street PD&E Study includes options to connect Whiting Street to Meridian Avenue and the possible reconfiguration of the Selmon Expressway ramps at Florida and Morgan.

The purpose of the Whiting Street PD&E Study is to look at potential improvements for safety, capacity, and community enhancements, along with implementing a downtown Tampa grid network. This study looks at ideas for the eastbound downtown Tampa exit ramps and the Jefferson Street entrance ramp of the Selmon Expressway, as well as neighboring surface streets in downtown Tampa.

The Virtual Alternatives Meeting will include a narrated portion that will give interested persons an opportunity to hear the background and purpose of the project, the process to complete the Whiting Street PD&E study, and the alternatives being considered. Public comment is solicited at the meeting and throughout the Study period. To be kept informed of the steps in the project, please sign up for the study newsletter at selmonstudies.com.

The Alternatives Meeting on May 20, 2021, is the first step in sharing ideas – alternatives – with interested stakeholders and the public. The Alternatives Meeting is being done virtually so that anyone interested can attend.  A recording of the Alternatives Meeting will be available on the website at selmonstudies.com.

What: Whiting Street PD&E Study Virtual Alternatives Meeting
When: Thursday, May 20th at 6:30 pm
How: Register by visiting http://bit.ly/whiting_pde

April 26, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – John Weatherford participated in his first Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) Board Meeting following his appointment to the Board by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

“It is an honor to join the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Board of Directors, and I am excited to work with such a distinguished group of leaders,” said newly appointed THEA Board Member John Weatherford. “THEA is a highly respected agency that prides itself on being an innovative leader in the transportation industry. I look forward to working with my fellow board members and THEA staff to provide our community with safe and reliable transportation solutions.”

John Weatherford is a Senior Vice President at M.E. Wilson Company an elite provider of insurance, risk management, and employee benefit services. Also, John is the founder and Managing Member at Golden Rule, LLC, a philanthropic-focused advisory firm.

Before this, John spent almost a decade in banking, gaining extensive corporate finance experience and trained in all aspects of banking. John received his banking certification from Louisiana State University’s Graduate School of Banking and his BA from Saint Leo University’s College of Business Administration; he also attended the University of West Georgia for his AA in Accounting.

Presently, John lives with his wife in Tampa, Florida, where he is involved in several community organizations such as Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), Lymphoma & Leukemia Society, Leadership Tampa Bay, Abe Brown Ministries, Association for Corporate Growth, and more. In the past, he held responsibilities with nonprofit organizations, including OnBikes, FCA, and Junior Achievement. In his spare time, John enjoys his church, basketball, running, reading, and spending time with his family.

“I cannot be more thrilled with Governor DeSantis’ appointment of John Weatherford to THEA’s Board of Directors,” said THEA Board Chair Vincent J. Cassidy. “John’s experience both as a businessman and a civically-minded member of our community will be an asset to this Board and to the entire Agency.”

“John Weatherford is a great choice to join THEA’s Board of Directors,” said THEA CEO Joe Waggoner. “John’s forward-thinking approach to business fits perfectly with THEA’s mission to be a driver for innovation in the Transportation Industry. As THEA continues to grow, the Board and the Agency will look to John to provide his thoughts and advice on how to improve our already high standards of success, and I have no doubt he will play a pivotal role in the years ahead.”

John Weatherford replaces Shaun Oxtal who was appointed to THEA’s board in August of 2017 by then Governor Rick Scott.  “We thank Mr. Oxtal for his explementary service and leadership to THEA’s Board of Directors,” added Mr. Cassidy.

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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 200,000 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.

April 23, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – On Monday, April 19, 2021, during the Grand Opening Ceremony of the Selmon West Extension, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) presented a check to Tampa Mayor Jane Castor for $2 million that will go towards the rebuilding of two waterfront parks on the north and south side of Gandy Boulevard near the Gandy Bridge.

Both waterfront parks were closed during the construction of the Selmon West Extension and used as a staging area for the construction crews working on the project. The construction team will restore the parks to the original condition, so the $2 million gift to the City of Tampa will allow for the enhancement and reimagining of both waterfront parks without spending taxpayer dollars. The donation is yet another example of THEA’s commitment to improve the quality of life for the Tampa Bay community – particularly those who live and work along the Gandy Corridor.

“I want to thank the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority and in particular THEA’s CEO Joe Waggoner and the rest of my fellow THEA Board Members for this generous gift,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “We will be able to turn two construction staging areas into waterfront parks without using any taxpayer dollars– giving future generations of Tampa residents the opportunity to enjoy the beauty that is Tampa Bay.”

“It is my honor, on behalf of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority, to present this $2 million donation to the City of Tampa,” said THEA CEO Joe Waggoner. “THEA’s mission is to not only provide innovative, safe, and reliable transportation solutions to the Tampa Bay Area, but also to be a partner in enhancing the quality of life for all who call our community home. We are thrilled to assist the City in bringing these two waterfront parks back to life, and we look forward to enjoying the parks once completed.”

Please click here to access the photo album of the Selmon Extension Grand Opening.

April 8, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.)  – Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) announces its plan to open the Selmon West Extension. This elevated 1.9-mile toll lane will provide a seamless connection and a safe transportation option for drivers traveling from Brandon to Pinellas County.

Construction of the $230 million project began in December 2017 and will be open to the public in the afternoon of April 19, 2021.

“This project has been 25 years in the making, and I am thrilled it’s finally ready to open. THEA challenged our design-build team to come up with an innovative and aesthetically pleasing design that would minimize the negative effects of construction on the businesses along the Gandy corridor,” said THEA Executive Director, Joe Waggoner.

In 2006, THEA completed the Selmon Expressway’s Reversible Express Lanes (REL) with all-electronic tolling. The REL was the world's first reversible, all-electronic, elevated express lane project. When the Selmon West Extension opens this month, it will utilize an innovative design. The bridge’s distinctive fins provide a useful purpose by supporting the bridge deck, enabling longer span lengths between pier columns, and reducing height cross-section for the precast segments.

While most bridges stand 15’ off the ground, business owners along Gandy Boulevard were concerned that their businesses’ sightline would be blocked by a bridge that stood only at 15’ tall. THEA listened to their concerns and built the Selmon Extension 30’ from the ground to the bottom of the bridge.

THEA also talked to and surveyed the businesses along Gandy Boulevard and discovered other concerns. Business owners were worried that construction would close lanes and driveways, which would negatively impact their business. THEA imposed strict traffic management requirements to assure the contractor did not close driveways or lanes during rush hours. In partnership with local Chambers of Commerce, the agency also launched the “SHOP GANDY!” marketing campaign to support businesses before, during, and after construction.

The Selmon West Extension offers drivers a choice, either stay on Gandy Boulevard for local destinations, or use the Selmon West Extension for regional “pass-through” trips. The cost to use the Extension is $0.95 with SunPass, or $1.31 with Toll-By-Plate billing.

“The Selmon Extension provides a critical link that connects businesses, freight, and people from Pinellas County to Hillsborough County. It will help stimulate social and economic prosperity for local businesses and the entire region. We are proud of the design and the execution and the fact we were able to keep people employed and keep construction moving forward during the pandemic,” says Vincent Cassidy, Chairman, THEA Board of Directors.

By keeping construction going during the pandemic, THEA preserved more than 300 local area jobs.

A ribbon-cutting event will be held on April 19^th. Due to COVID 19 concerns, attendance will be by invitation only. At that time THEA will also present the City of Tampa a $2 million check to rebuild the parks on the north and south side of Gandy Boulevard, which were used as staging areas during construction.

Toll revenues and bonds fully fund the Selmon West Extension without using any taxpayer dollars.

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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 200,000 daily trips with safe, reliable, and financially sustainable transportation service.  For more information on how THEA is moving transportation forward, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

Tampa, April 6, 2021 – Work times are from 7:00 pm through 6:30 am the following morning except where indicated.

4/6-4/8: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am – Striping will be conducted along the Expressway; this will be a mobile operation using a crash truck behind the striping truck. No lane or ramp closures will be needed for this operation. 

4/13: 8:00 pm – 5:00 am – *Detour at the east end of Eastbound mainline at ramps to I-75 Northbound and Southbound to mill and resurface pavement. 

*Detour will start at 8:00 pm - 5:00 am the next morning (4/14). Traffic will exit at the Eastbound Falkenburg Road exit ramp and be directed north to SR 60 to I-75 Northbound and Southbound.

4/14-4/15: 7:00pm – 6:30am – Eastbound Falkenburg exit ramp. Lane closure for milling and paving operations. 

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 [email protected]‐xway.com

Tampa, April 5, 2021 - Work times are from 7:00 pm through 6:30 am the following morning except where indicated.

4/5: 8:00 pm - 5:00 am - Eastbound Mainline and Westbound Mainline at Plant Ave - Short duration lane closures to install rumble strips. This operation is expected to take approximately 3 hours.

Tampa, April 1, 2021 – Work times are from 7:00 pm through 6:30 am the following morning except where indicated (i.e., 3/19 through 3/25).

4/5: 8:00 pm – 5:00 am – Eastbound Mainline and Westbound Mainline at Plant Ave Short duration lane closures to install rumble strips. This operation is expected to take approximately 4 hours.

4/7 and 4/8: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am – Eastbound Falkenburg Exit Ramp. Lane closures for milling and paving.

4/9: 8:00 pm – 5:00 am – East end of Eastbound Mainline at ramps to I-75 Northbound and Southbound to mill and resurface. Detour will start at 8:00 pm through 5:00 am the next morning (4/10). Traffic will exit at EB Falkenburg Rd exit ramp and be directed north to SR60 to I-75 NB and SB.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com

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Tampa, March 30, 2021 – On April 2, 2021, 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. At 10:00 AM, all traffic will be reversed to the eastbound direction from the downtown area to Brandon. The REL will stay in this figuration until 6:00 AM Monday, April 5, 2021, when normal hours of operation will resume.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

3/19 - 3/21: 8:00 pm Fri to 5:00 am Mon – EB Mainline and Gantry Area at Plant Ave and EB Entrance Ramp from Plant Ave (detour of mainline and ramp; traffic will be directed to on-ramp at Nebraska Ave).

3/20: 7:00 pm Sat to 6:30 am Sun – WB Exit Ramp to Plant Ave (detour; traffic will be directed to WB Exit Ramp at Willow Ave).

3/25: 12:00 midnight Thur – 4:00 am Fri – Outside lane closures at EB and WB Mainline at Plant Ave for rumble strips.

March 5, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.) – Work times are from 7:00 pm through 6:30 am the following morning except where indicated (i.e., 3/10 through 3/11).

3/5-3/8 – NO WORK 

3/10: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am – Lane closure at Eastbound Falkenburg Road Exit for traffic signal loop replacement.

3/11: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am – Ramp closure at Westbound Bay to Bay Blvd Exit Ramp for wrong way signal loop replacement.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

Proposed Change Tampa Hillsborough Expressway to West Florida Expressway Authority

March 1, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.) – In 2014, the state of Florida passed legislation giving the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) the ability to offer services in counties contiguous to Hillsborough County, including Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Polk Counties.

On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, Senator Danny Burgess and Florida House Member Mike Beltran submitted SB 1660/HB 1283, which would rename THEA as the West Florida Expressway Authority and expand the Authority’s ability to offer services beyond counties contiguous to Hillsborough County to include Citrus and Hernando Counties.

Under this legislation, the ability for the Authority to offer transportation services in expansion counties beyond Hillsborough County remains permission-based, meaning the Authority must first receive the permission of the expansion County Board of County Commissioners and the current Board Authority before expansion can occur.

If permission is granted for the Authority to offer services in an expansion County, and the Authority board approves, the Authority Board will expand to include representation from a Board of County Commission member from the expansion County.  The Authority Board, currently seven (7) members, could expand to a maximum of thirteen (13) members.

“THEA has a successful history implementing innovative transportation solutions in Hillsborough County.  Our legislators recognize our capabilities to serve as a collaborative partner with neighboring counties. Under this legislation, the West Florida Expressway Authority could help the counties located on the central west coast of Florida offer additional transportation services.  With regionality at the forefront, we can help the other rapidly growing counties build roads, bridges, managed lanes, and other transit supporting facilities such as Transit Flex Lanes. With these legislative changes, the West Florida Expressway Authority has the ability to impact and shape local and regional mobility like never before,” said Joe Waggoner, Executive Director, and CEO, THEA.

March 1, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.) – Work times are from 7:00 pm through 6:30 am the following morning except where indicated (i.e., 3/5 through 3/7).

3/1 – NO WORK

3/2 – 3/3: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am - Ramp closures at Eastbound Willow Ave Exit Ramp, Westbound Plant Ave Exit Ramp for traffic signal loop replacement, and Westbound Bay to Bay Blvd Exit Ramp for Wrong Way Signal loop replacement.

3/5 – 3/7: 8:00 pm (Fri) – 5:00 am (Mon) – Eastbound Mainline closed at Willow Ave for paving mainline lanes and toll gantry area and Eastbound Entrance Ramp from Plant Ave. Traffic will be detoured at Eastbound Willow Ave Exit Ramp and directed to Eastbound Nebraska Ave Entrance Ramp to return to the Expressway.

3/8: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am - Lane closures on Eastbound Mainline at the entrance to I-75 Northbound and Southbound Ramps; lane closures on Eastbound Falkenburg Rd Exit Ramp.

3/8 – 3/9: 7:00 pm – 6:30 am – Ramp closure at Westbound Bay to Bay Blvd Exit Ramp and lane closures at Eastbound. Falkenburg Rd Exit Ramp for traffic signal loop replacement.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

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Tampa, February 19, 2021 – The Westbound entrance ramp from 22^nd St will be closed on Friday (2/19) and Saturday (2/20) nights starting at 7:00pm.

The Eastbound entrance ramp from Willow Ave will be closed on Saturday (2/20) and Sunday (2/21) nights starting at 7:00pm.

The closures on the Selmon Expressway will conclude no later than 5:00am on Monday (2/22) morning.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com

February 16, 2021 (Tampa, Fla.) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) invites the public to attend a Public Hearing for the South Selmon Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study. The purpose of the study is to evaluate how to add additional capacity within the existing Selmon Expressway right-of-way. The study area is from Himes Avenue to the overpass at Whiting Street, approximately 4.5 miles.

The Public Hearing will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2021, to present the Preferred Alternative. The hearing will allow attendees to have one-on-one discussions with study team members at information stations and view a pre-recorded presentation.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend the meeting at the Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. Masks will be required and COVID-safety protocols will be followed. There will be an open house from 5:00 - 6:00 pm, where attendees may review project displays and documents, speak with project team members, and make public comments. The presentation will start at 6:00 pm. Following the presentation, the open house will resume and continue until 7:00 pm.

Tampa Convention Center

333 S. Franklin St

Tampa, FL 33602

Rooms 24-25

February 25, 2021

Open House: 5:00 pm

Presentation: 6:00 pm

Open House & Comments until 7:00 pm

A court reporter will be available to receive comments in a one-on-one setting. You may also submit written comments at the hearing.

Send written comments to Sue Chrzan at THEA, 1104 E Twiggs St, Tampa, FL 33602, or emailed to [email protected].  Mailed comments must be postmarked by March 8, 2021, and email comments must be received by March 8, 2021, to become part of the public hearing record.

Draft project documents and plans will be available for public review from February 4 to March 8, 2021, at the THEA Office Lobby, 1104 E Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602, from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.  All presentation and display materials from the hearing, including documents, plans, and an animation video of the Preferred Alternative, are also available at SouthSelmonPDE.com.  You may also request additional information by contacting Sue Chrzan (813) 272-6740 ext. 130 or email [email protected]

Persons who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Steve Schnell by phone at (904) 598-8964 or via email at [email protected] at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact us using the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1, 1-800-955-8771 (TYY) or 1-800-955-8770 (Voice). Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns relative to THEA’s compliance with Title VI may do so by contacting Amy Lettelleir, THEA's General Counsel, by email [email protected].

The in-person public hearing option is being provided following federal regulations and state statute 23 CFR §771.111 and Section 339.155, F.S. THEA will be posting the same pre-recorded presentation video, project displays, documents, and an animation video of the Preferred Alternative on the study website (southselmonpde.com) on February 18, 2021.

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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 toll revenue 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. (January 11, 2021)  – For the MLK holiday, on January 18, 2021, 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. At 10:00 AM, all traffic will be reversed to the eastbound direction from the downtown area to Brandon. On Tuesday, January 19, 2021, the facility will return to normal hours of operation.

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 [email protected]‐xway.com.

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