Tampa, Fla. (December 21, 2022) – For the upcoming holiday, on Thursday, December 22, 2022, 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 Tuesday, December 27, 2022, 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, 2022, 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, 2023, 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.

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Tampa, Fla. (November 21, 2022) – For the Thanksgiving holiday, on Wednesday, November 23, 2022, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes will be turned eastbound at 1:30 pm and remain in this configuration until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, November 28 when normal hours of operation will resume.

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

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November 14, 2022 (Tampa, Fla.) - The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) announces the conclusion of a $27 million innovation project the agency began in 2015, the THEA CV Pilot. The Pilot implemented connected vehicle (CV) technology into real-life scenarios using the Selmon Expressway as a living lab for testing.

The Pilot began in September 2015, when the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) designated THEA as a test bed for CV technology. The award led to a full-scale operation of CV devices throughout downtown Tampa, culminating in a collaboration between Honda, Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc, and Toyota Motor North America. This industry-wide collaboration is among the first of its kind, where auto manufacturers joined in deploying vehicles with CV technology to provide the next evolution of delivering safer transportation.

Thanks to THEA's efforts as an early adopter, Tampa was one of the first cities in the nation to deploy CV technology on actual city streets, fitting transportation infrastructure, transit vehicles, and over 1,100 volunteer drivers with the ability to receive safety alerts.

The THEA CV Pilot produced a massive amount of open shared data that can be used to help spur private/public collaborations, eventually resulting in better driving conditions. Data demonstrated that the THEA CV Pilot prevented 21 potential pedestrian crashes, delivered 19 red light violation warnings, avoided 17 potential vehicle collisions, alerted 14 wrong-way drivers, and issued over 20,000 safety advisories.

"These stats are impactful," said THEA Director of Planning and Innovation Robert Frey. "All of these alerts represent a person that avoided a traffic incident like a collision or crash."

Added Frey, "The pilot successfully demonstrated that connected vehicle technologies transmit crucial transportation information which can save the lives of drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists."

The THEA CV Pilot consisted of four phases of programming: Phase 1 - planning, Phase 2 - development, Phase 3 - data collection, and Phase 4 - an industry-wide collaboration with auto manufacturers.

In Phase 4 alone, the THEA CV Pilot identified 150,000 interactions with CV-equipped vehicles, issued over 22,000 vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) warnings, and delivered almost 72 million Travel Information Messages (TIM).

"According to some of the early research, connected vehicle technology can address at least 78% of vehicle-to-vehicle related collisions,” said Honda Research Institute Chief Engineer Sue Bai. "The technology we have deployed in the THEA CV Pilot is paramount in achieving Honda’s vision for a collision-free society."

The THEA CV Pilot was the only program to implement real-time, Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I), and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communications through the recruitment of Selmon Expressway drivers. It was also the only site in the country that produced real-time data. The other two sites awarded as part of the USDOT's Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployment Program were New York City and the Interstate 80 corridor in Wyoming.

“Congratulations to Bob Frey and the entire CV Pilot team. Their passion and drive to implement and test this technology in Tampa is a game-changer for our industry and will result in lives being saved,” said THEA Executive Director and CEO Greg Slater.

The THEA Connected Vehicle Pilot comes to an end on September 30th, 2022. With the CV Pilot ending, THEA will continue its efforts in advancing the Selmon Expressway and implementing intelligent transportation systems. The Pilot's collected data will also be utilized to leverage existing technology on the I-4 Frame in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in a $43 million program budgeted over the next six years.

For more information about the THEA CV Pilot, visit the website https://theacvpilot.com/.

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The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is soliciting Request of Qualifications (RFQs). Qualified firms capable of assisting the Authority in the evaluation of potential transportation strategies and approaches for the optimal utilization of certain Authority-owned real estate properties throughout downtown Tampa should apply for consideration.

It is the Authority’s intent through this RFQ to engage a qualified real estate firm to assist the agency in evaluating the various uses that will be proposed for the agency-owned property assets. Services potentially sought by the agency include strategic project planning, financial analyses, market feasibility studies, financial plans or models, expertise with public and private funding and financial partners and instruments, and additional related services.

THEA Downtown Property Assets 

The agency is seeking a firm that has demonstrable experience in:

• Strategic real estate transportation-related advisory and planning services;
• Working with government entities, especially transportation-related entities;
• Working in or specified knowledge of the greater Tampa-Hillsborough County area;
• Assessing current real estate portfolios to identify opportunities for optimization of client’s real estate; assets, including development or sale;
• Developing plans to optimize and transform real estate, in accordance with the client’s mission, values, and master plans;
• Evaluating and executing alternative or innovative project funding and delivery methods, including those involving both public and private entities;
• Advising on transactions, including partner selection and negotiations;
• Market Feasibility Studies and Highest and Best Use Analysis

The Authority must receive all responses to RFQs no later than 11:15 am EST on January 17th, 2023. It shall be the sole responsibility of the Proposer to have its package delivered to the Authority by U.S. Mail, hand delivery, or any other method available to them. Electronic submittals will not be accepted. The submittal must be delivered to the Authority’s procurement department in one package, clearly marked on the outside, “Request for Qualifications No. E-1522 for Real Estate Planning Advisory Services for the Tampa Hillsborough County Expressway Authority,” with opening time and date, and sent or delivered to:

Shannon Bush – Contracts and Procurement Manager

1104 East Twiggs Street, Suite 300

Tampa, FL 33602

Phone: (813) 272-6740

Email: [email protected]

More information can be found on: 

https://www.tampa-xway.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/E-1522-Real-Estate-Advisory-Services-RFP.pdf.

PLEASE NOTE: NOTICE OF CORRECTED SCHEDULE 

https://www.tampa-xway.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/E-1522-Notice-of-Corrected-Schedule-of-Events.pdf

Tampa, Fla. (November 9, 2022) – For Tropical Storm Nicole and the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, the Reversible Express Lanes will be turned eastbound at 1 pm on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, and remain in this configuration through 6 am on Monday, November 14 when normal hours of operation will resume.

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

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Tampa, Fla. (October 31, 2022) – With construction underway on the REL ramps, traffic coming from I-75 South onto the Selmon Expressway (SR 618) westbound ramp will be detoured to US-301 North from 7 pm to 5 am on Tuesday, November 1 through Thursday, November 3.

The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. On an ongoing basis, day and nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740, or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (October 28, 2022) – There will be two westbound lane closures on the Selmon Expressway at the Hillsborough River bridge area due to maintenance work on Sunday, October 30 from 8 pm to 5 am on Monday, October 31. There will be a single right lane open while crews conduct the regular maintenance work. The closure will not block the entrance or exit ramps to downtown Tampa.

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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THEA Will Close the Eastbound Willow Avenue Exit to Repair Toll Rate Sign on Wednesday, October 12th

Tampa, Fla. (October 11, 2022) - The Selmon Expressway's eastbound Willow Avenue exit will be closed on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm while the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) works to repair the toll rate sign at the Eastbound Willow Avenue exit.

THEA's staff and crews appreciate everyone's patience during this temporary closure. Please check www.tampa-xway.com for updates. For more information, call 813.951.5787 or email [email protected]

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The Selmon Expressway’s Reversible Express Lanes Will Resume Normal Operations on Monday Morning

October 1, 2022 (Tampa, Fla.) – The Reversible Express Lanes (REL) on the Selmon Expressway will resume normal operating hours on October 3, 2022, at 6:00 am, with all traffic moving in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area. The REL turns eastbound (to Brandon) at 3:00 pm and remains eastbound until 6:00 am the next day. 

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SELMON EXPRESSWAY TOLLS ARE SUSPENDED

Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lane (REL) Hours for Hurricane Ian

Tampa, Fla. (September 26, 2022) - As per Governor DeSantis' order, all tolls are suspended on the Selmon Expressway - effective 12:00 pm (noon) today, Monday, September 26, 2022, until further notice.

Also, in preparation for Hurricane Ian, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will remain open eastbound until further notice. Drivers are urged to check THEA’s home page, www.tampa-xway.com for an up-to-the-minute status on the direction of the REL.

Again, the REL will NOT open westbound until further notice.

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Click Here for Archived News and Media Alerts.

Tampa, Fla. (September 1, 2022) – In observance of the Labor Day holiday, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will open eastbound at 1:00 pm on Friday, September 2, 2022, and will remain eastbound until 6:00 am on Tuesday, September 6, 2022. At that time, the REL will be open in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area, resuming normal operating hours.

Motorists are advised that the reversible lane 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.

Tampa, Fla. (August 31, 2022) – Today, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) announced a robust work plan that will provide significant upgrades and capacity improvements to the Selmon Expressway and the agency's entire network of roads and trails in the Tampa Bay region. Over the next six years, THEA will inject over $733 million into the region that will enhance the transportation infrastructure, and give more connected options for safe, multimodal transportation.

"This work plan allows us to use our agency's incredible resources to bring well-thought-out, finely crafted transportation solutions that will have a positive economic impact on the community," said THEA CEO & Executive Director Greg Slater.

All upcoming and current projects are funded 100% through THEA's toll revenues and bonds, ensuring that finite taxpayer dollars are reserved for other transportation and community needs. In addition, THEA's $733 million Six-Year Work Program was developed to prioritize the transportation infrastructure that is key to ensuring that Tampa Bay maintains a high quality of life as it attracts new residents. In the plan, both the East and South segments of the Selmon Expressway will receive capacity improvements, providing the region with economic development opportunities by creating jobs and enhancing our regional infrastructure to meet Tampa Bay's explosive population growth.

As a leader in transportation solutions, THEA has earned accolades for cutting-edge projects, such as the first reversible All-Electronic Tolling (AET) lanes, Autonomous Vehicle Technology (AVT) test bed designation, and the THEA Connected Vehicle Pilot. In addition, the 2022-2027 Work Plan continues to solidify the agency's commitment to enhancing the community's transportation options, including multimodal connectivity, with a focus on livability and well-being with the Selmon Expressway network, Selmon Greenway multi-use trail, and pocket parks.

THEA is projected to invest $663.6 million in community enhancement and expanded capacity projects and $69.6 million in maintenance and preservation projects. Highlights of the Six-Year Work Program include:

1. Community Enhancements

• Selmon Greenway Improvements
• Meridian Avenue Pedestrian Improvements
• Bay to Bay Boulevard Aesthetics

2. Infrastructure Improvements

• South Selmon Capacity Improvement Project
• Twiggs Street Improvement Project
• East Selmon Additional Access Ramps
• Whiting Street Improvements
• Railroad Track Removal for Grid Connectivity
• Continued Preservation and Maintenance of Existing Facilities

3. Project Development & Environment Studies

• Nebraska Avenue PD&E
• East Selmon PD&E

4. Technology & Innovation Enhancements

• Connected Vehicle (CV) Pilot
• Road Ranger Incident Response
• Intelligent Transportation System Infrastructure Enhancements such as Dynamic Message Signs, Cameras, and CV Technology
• Toll Operations Infrastructure & Tolling Technology Testing

Read the complete 2022-2027 THEA Work Program by clicking here.

With construction underway on the REL additional access point ramps, daytime construction activities as well as other nighttime lane closures continue as follows.

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

• Night - Ramp 2 (**Ikea** from 39^th street to just past I-4 Connector interchange)  –   Westbound Selmon Expressway left and then right lane closure from 39^th street to the 28^th street. This is for traffic shift.

Thursday, July 7, 2022

• Night - Ramp 2 (**Ikea** from 39^th street to just past I-4 Connector interchange)  –   Westbound Selmon Expressway left and then right lane closure from 39^th street to the 28^th street. This is for traffic shift.
• Night - Ramp 2 (**Ikea** from 39^th street to just past I-4 Connector interchange) –   I4 Off-Ramp to Selmon Expressway right lane closure. This is for traffic shift.

Tampa, Fla. (June 25, 2022) – With construction underway on the REL ramps, westbound traffic will be detoured off at 50th Street. The detour will take motorists to SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and then back onto the Expressway at 22nd Street. The tolls at 22nd Street will be waived during this detour. The schedule for the detour is as follows:

• Sunday, June 26 – 8:30 pm to 5 am
• Monday, June 27 – 7 pm to 5 am

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (June 24, 2022) – With construction underway on the REL ramps, westbound traffic will be detoured off at 50th Street on Friday, June 24 from 7 pm to 5 am. The detour will take motorists to SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and then back onto the Expressway at 22nd Street. The tolls at 22nd Street will be waived during this detour.

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (June 22, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) invites the public to attend a Public Meeting for the Railroad Track Removal Project. The purpose of this project is to create a more walkable downtown experience that would also benefit mobility and promote ease of travel. When THEA reconstructed Meridian Avenue in 2004, the agency promised the community that once the Ardent Mills Flour Mill located in downtown is demolished, the railroad tracks that serviced the mill would be removed to complete the grid network system by connecting Whiting Street to Meridian Avenue.

With the demolition of the Ardent Mills Flour Mill coming soon, THEA is following through on that commitment and removing the railroad tracks that used to service the mill. While THEA leased the tracks to Ardent Mills while the mill was still active, these tracks are owned by THEA and sit on THEA's property. Removing the tracks is the first step in helping the City of Tampa create a street grid system. Once removed, THEA will add a commemorative plaque along the Selmon Greenway to recognize the history of the property.

The Railroad Track Removal Public Meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. The meeting will allow attendees to have one-on-one discussions with study team members at information stations and view a pre-recorded presentation. The Public Meeting will include a narrated portion that will give interested persons an opportunity to hear the background and purpose of the project and the plan for removal.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend the Public Meeting at THEA’s Headquarters, 1104 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. There will be an open house from 5:30 - 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.

RAILROAD TRACK REMOVAL PUBLIC MEETING

Where: THEA Headquarters, 1104 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602

When: June 29, 2022

Open House: 5:30 pm, Presentation: 6:00 pm

For more information, visit the website at https://www.tampa-xway.com/railroad-track-removal/ 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 Sue Chrzan by phone at (813) 272-6740 ext.124 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 at [email protected].

The in-person public meeting option is being provided following federal regulations and state statute 23 CFR §771.111 and Section 339.155, F.S. 

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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 services. 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/

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will open eastbound at 1 pm on Friday, May 27, 2022, and will remain eastbound until 6:00 am on Tuesday, May 31, 2022. At that time, the REL will be open in the westbound direction from Brandon to the downtown area, resuming normal operating 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.                                                             

Tampa, Fla. (May 15, 2022)  – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is excited to announce Andy Lelewski, P.E., as its Director of Toll Operations. Lelewski brings 24 years of toll industry experience to THEA and has spent the last 13 years as a Director at the North Carolina Turnpike Authority where he managed $150 million in toll system technology and customer service-related contracts and led the performance of staff and over 100 consultants and contractor positions. 

While Director, the Turnpike Authority opened the Triangle Expressway, and twice won the IBTTA President’s award, the highest award given by the association. The 2016 and 2018 honors were awarded for advancements of the Authority’s customer service and toll interoperability program. He is well versed in all aspects of the tolling industry from the design and implementation of toll facilities to long-term capital planning and customer service.

“THEA’s values as an organization align with my personal and professional goals of helping the community with exemplary customer service and seamless travel,” says Lelewski, “I am eager to join such a well-regarded organization and am looking forward to implementing innovative solutions in the Tampa Bay region.” 

Along with his years of industry experience, Lelewski holds professional affiliations with many transportation associations including the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the Transportation Research Board (TRB) and the Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America).

THEA’s CEO and Executive Director, Greg Slater, says Lelewski’s drive and experience in the industry make him an excellent addition to THEA’s team. “Andy brings a wealth of knowledge to our agency. He values innovation, collaboration with the community, and is skilled at listening to different perspectives to benefit all stakeholders,” says Slater. 

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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.

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. (May 10, 2022) – With construction underway on the REL ramps, westbound traffic will be detoured off at 50th Street. The detour will take motorists to SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and then back onto the Expressway at 22nd Street. The tolls at 22nd Street will be waived during this detour. The schedule for the detour is as follows:

• Wednesday, May 11 – 9 pm to 5 am
• Thursday, May 12 – 9 pm to 5 am

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (April 26, 2022) – Intermittent daytime single lower lane closures will occur the last week of April as well as the first two weeks of May on the Selmon Expressway from the Channel District to the East Toll Plaza area as we further optimize our lighting on the Reversible Express Lanes.

Please slow down, drive with caution and follow lane closure signage as we make these beneficial changes. 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]

Tampa, Fla. (April 14, 2022) – On April 15, 2022, 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 remain in this configuration until Monday, April 18, 2022, at 6:00 AM, when the REL goes back to normal operation with all traffic traveling westbound from Brandon towards 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. (April 1, 2022 ) – On Monday, March 28, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) Board of Directors voted to solicit expert real estate advice regarding THEA’s downtown key assets.

THEA controls several acres of land adjacent to Meridian Ave and the original Ardent Mills flour mill. With the exciting redevelopment coming due to the mill relocating, THEA is undertaking a study to determine the best use of its property assets within the downtown core.

THEA is currently working on re-establishing the roadway grid system in downtown Tampa, in partnership with the City of Tampa, as evidenced by its Whiting Street project (www.whitingstreetpde.com).  As a result of a previously held workshop on the matter, the vote of the Board determined that the next important step would be for THEA to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a real estate and/or development advisors to help THEA determine what’s the right fit for the area and the transportation network most beneficial to the community.

THEA hopes to release the RFP by early June.

Tampa, Fla. (March 30, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is conducting routine maintenance over the next month at all our toll gantry sites. Nighttime intermittent lane closures will occur throughout this effort and some work will require full ramp closures to our facilities.

Please note the following upcoming full ramp closures that will occur during the evening from 8:30 pm to 5 am. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and follow detour signs.

Wednesday, March 30:

• Selmon Expressway - 50^th Street On and 50^th Street Off Ramps
• Selmon Expressway – West Mainline Eastbound

Motorists are advised that this maintenance work is subject to change due to weather and traffic conditions. 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.

Tampa, Fla. (March 25, 2022) – With construction underway on the REL ramps, westbound traffic will be detoured off at 50th Street the week of March 27, 2022. The detour will take motorists to SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and then back onto the Expressway at 22nd Street. The tolls at 22nd Street will be waived during this detour. The schedule for the detour is as follows:

• Monday, March 28 – 7 pm to 5 am
• Tuesday, March 29 – 7 pm to 5 am

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (March 24, 2022) – The Selmon Extension will be open for the evening rush hour on Thursday, March 24, 2022.

As previously reported, the Expressway Authority closed the Extension after a routine inspection revealed two horizontal wires that had come loose from its anchors. THEA's team of engineers determined that the repair is a minor one and that it is safe for traffic to be on the structure. The Extension is designed to have maintenance and repairs done inside the roadway with live traffic overhead.

THEA plans to open the roadway after rush hour this morning to be ready for Thursday evening commuters. Crews will remove the barrels blockading the entrances and update the variable message boards to alert drivers that the Extension is open.

THEA would like to express its profound gratitude to the community for its patience. In an abundance of caution, we closed the Selmon Extension to conduct due diligence on what, thankfully, turned out to be a minor issue. We are committed to offering a safer, smarter, and more connected ride to our commuters on both sides of the Bay.

Sue Chrzan, Director of Communications, will be available for interviews at the boat launch parking lot next to the Extension on the west end of Gandy Boulevard from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm on Thursday, March 24, 2022.

Please check THEA's website for more information at www.tampa-xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (March 20, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) was completing a routine inspection of the inside of the Selmon Extension. During this inspection, engineers from the THEA team noted one horizontal strand that had come loose from its anchor. As engineers investigated further, they saw that another steel strand in the same location had become loose.

These wires can be maintained and replaced inside the structure with live traffic overhead. However, in an abundance of caution, and because of the unique nature of this structure, the decision has been made to close the Extension until more information is obtained and evaluated.

Barrels and variable message boards are being put in place and will alert drivers that the Extension is closed. Gandy Boulevard and the Selmon Expressway are open to traffic. Only the Extension is closed.

Again, because of the unique nature of the Extension's design, THEA is being extra cautious as we explore the issue and make recommendations for repairs.

Please continue to check THEA's website for more information at www.tampa-xway.com.

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Tampa, Fla. (March 18, 2022) – Construction is now underway on the REL ramps. Because of this, westbound traffic will be detoured off at 50th Street starting the week of March 20, 2022. The detour will take motorists to SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and then back onto the Expressway at 22nd Street. The tolls at 22nd Street will be waived during this detour. The schedule for the detour is as follows:

• Sunday, March 20 – 7 pm to 5 am
• Tuesday, March 22 – 7 pm to 5 am

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project. The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740 or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

Tampa, Fla. (March 17, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is conducting routine maintenance over the next month at all our toll gantry sites. Nighttime intermittent lane closures will occur throughout this effort and some work will require full ramp closures to our facilities.

Please note the following upcoming full ramp closures that will occur during the evening from 8:30 pm to 5 am. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and follow detour signs.

Thursday, March 17:

• Selmon Expressway - 22^nd Street On and 22^nd Street Off Ramps

Wednesday, March 30:

• Selmon Expressway - 50^th Street On and 50^th Street Off Ramps

Motorists are advised that this maintenance work is subject to change due to weather and traffic conditions. 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.

Tampa, Fla. (February 21, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is conducting routine maintenance over the next two months at all our toll gantry sites. Nighttime intermittent lane closures will occur throughout this effort and some work will require full ramp closures to our facilities.

Please note the following upcoming full ramp closures that will occur during the evening from 8:30 pm to 5 am. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and follow detour signs.

Tuesday, February 22:

• Eastbound Selmon Expressway - Willow Avenue Entrance Ramp
• Westbound Selmon Expressway - Willow Avenue Exit Ramp

Thursday, February 24:

• Eastbound Selmon Expressway - Plant Avenue Entrance Ramp
• Westbound Selmon Expressway - Plant Avenue Exit Ramp

Motorists are advised that this maintenance work is subject to change due to weather and traffic conditions. 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. (February 15, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) commissioned the University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation (CUTR) to provide insight into the Selmon Expressway’s economic impact through the Expressway’s network of properties. The network of properties studied included the Selmon Expressway, the Meridian Parkway, the Selmon Greenway, and the Brandon Parkway. Since its inception in 1975, the Authority’s capital infrastructure investments and operations have created 15,000 jobs in high-impact industry sectors and generated $1.6 billion in local and state gross domestic product.

“Authority operations provide a significant contribution toward area employment by supporting jobs in the most relevant industries of the region,” the report states.

According to the report, THEA’s wide-ranging economic activity in the region creates new jobs, facilitates the transport of goods, increases property values in areas surrounding their roadways, and saves drivers time and money.

The report boasts substantial positive impacts on urban mobility and business development, including $1.8 billion savings in travel time and out-of-pocket costs and $37 million in accident-cost savings.

As of 2019, approximately 13,300 businesses were operating within one mile of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, representing 23.1 percent of all establishments in Hillsborough County. Between 2010 and 2019, business activity along the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway demonstrated substantial growth relative to comparative areas with 12.6 percent greater development in new businesses and 2 percent higher employment growth.

Another comparative analysis showed that properties within one mile of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway had greater value than other areas in Hillsborough County. Single-family homes exhibit a 23 percent higher sale price while commercial properties average a 22 percent higher sale price. The increased property value translates to an additional tax revenue of about $48 million for Hillsborough County’s Property Tax roll.

“This report is an indication that people are willing to pay a premium for the amenity of being close to a major roadway. Maintaining a positive economic impact on the community is important to our agency, and this report highlights the fact that urban mobility positively affects travelers and that the community benefits from the result of a multitude of healthy transportation networks,” said Greg Slater, THEA CEO, and Executive Director.

Slater said that in addition to economic benefits, THEA’s Lee Roy Selmon Expressway has demonstrated positive environmental impacts. Using the Expressway reduces annual carbon dioxide emissions by 160 thousand metric tons and saves residents $26 million in fuel costs each year. Carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions are reduced with all-electronic tolling and less congested roadways.

Read the complete report at   https://www.tampa-xway.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/THEA_Economic_Contribution_Report_Final_2_10_22.pdf

Tampa, Fla. (February 14, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is conducting routine maintenance over the next two months at all our toll gantry sites. Nighttime intermittent lane closures will occur throughout this effort and some work will require full ramp closures to our facilities.

Please note the following upcoming full ramp closures that will occur during the evening from 8:30 pm to 5 am. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and follow detour signs.

Tuesday, February 15:

• Eastbound Selmon West Extension Mainline Entrance Ramp
• Eastbound Selmon West Extension Mainline Exit Ramp to South Dale Mabry Highway

Thursday, February 17:

• Westbound Selmon West Extension Mainline Entrance Ramp from South Dale Mabry Highway

Motorists are advised that this maintenance work is subject to change due to weather and traffic conditions. 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.

Tampa, Fla. (January 31, 2022) – As construction is now underway with the East Selmon slip ramps, the following temporary traffic detours will occur:

• Feb. 2-3, Feb. 7-8 and Feb. 10: Motorists who are traveling on southbound I-75 and wanting to access the westbound lanes of the Selmon Expressway will be detoured from 9 pm to 5 am to the next off-ramp exit on US-301

On an ongoing basis, nighttime lane closures will occur throughout this project and the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority will continue to make updates for any major detours or ramp closures.

The staff and crews of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority appreciate everyone's patience during this time. For more information, learn more about this project at https://www.tampa-xway.com/rel-slip-ramp-construction/, call 813.272.6740, or email [email protected]‐xway.com.

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Tampa, Fla. (January 12, 2022) – For the MLK holiday on January 17, 2022, the Reversible Express Lanes (REL) of the Selmon Expressway will turn eastbound at 10 am instead of its normal time of 1 pm. The REL traffic will be eastbound until 6 am on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, when it resumes normal hours of operation.

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

Tampa, Fla. (January 10, 2022) – The Tampa Hillsborough County Expressway Authority (THEA) has selected Mr. Greg Slater as its next Executive Director and CEO. Mr. Slater will begin work on February 1, 2022.

Mr. Slater has over two decades of public service, most recently serving as Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). At MDOT State Highway Administration, Mr. Slater worked his way through the ranks, starting his career in Plats and Survey operations, advancing to leadership positions in the Engineering and Planning/Programming offices, and named Administrator in 2017. In 2019 he was appointed Secretary of MDOT, which oversees the state’s programs for roads, transit, aviation, and ports.

“Greg is known in Maryland as someone who believes that collaboration and partnerships are key in improving transportation options,” said THEA’s Board Chairman Vincent J. Cassidy. “His commitment to customers, his leadership and vision, and his drive to find creative solutions will help THEA prepare for the future. As our region looks for innovative transportation solutions to address the needs of our growing population, we will be fortunate to have a leader of Greg’s caliber, intellect, and experience on the team driving change.”

“I look forward to leading such an innovative agency, and to becoming integrated into the amazing Tampa Bay community. THEA is an organization known for its financial strength and community involvement and is known in international circles for its dedication to the ACES (Automated, Connected, Electric, and Shared) technologies that will build a foundation for the next generation of transportation,” said Mr. Slater.

Mr. Slater replaces long-time Executive Director Joe Waggoner.  Mr. Waggoner came to THEA in August 2007.  He was tasked with making the agency financially independent and able to take on projects that would benefit the Tampa Bay region. Under Waggoner's leadership, THEA gained independence and is now producing a 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 the award-winning Selmon West Extension, a project that had been envisioned for over 25 years, on time and on budget.  In 2010, he also converted the Selmon Expressway to All-Electronic Tolling, saving millions of dollars in operating costs," said Cassidy.

Tampa, Fla. (January 7, 2022) – On Sunday, January 9, 2022, at 4:30 am, the Selmon Expressway Reversible Express Lanes (REL) will be closed from the downtown area to Brandon until approximately 12:00 pm. At that time, the REL will be opened in the eastbound direction – from the downtown area towards Brandon. On Monday, January 10, 2022, normal hours of operation will resume in 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 more information email [email protected]‐xway.com.