June 29, 2009 - Tampa, Florida - At a special meeting of the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority's Board of Directors, the Board voted today to award a contract to PB Americas, Inc. for completion of a study for re-entering the federal New Starts funding process for a potential light rail investment.
The First Step: Alternatives Analysis
The study, known as an Alternatives Analysis (AA), is the first step in the process of securing federal funding for a major transit project. This AA is an update of the 2002 Tampa Rail Plan, a 20.1-mile light rail system that received federal planning and environmental approvals in 2003, but was not pursued due to lack of a local funding source. Two of the corridors identified in the 2002 plan, the Northeast Corridor from Downtown Tampa to the University of South Florida area and the West Corridor between Downtown Tampa and the Westshore Business District, will be evaluated as part of the AA.
The scope of the study includes examining and updating the previous Locally Preferred Alternative, comparing it to other potential alternatives, and developing recommendations on the specific alternative that would best address needs, challenges and opportunities in the defined corridors.
The goal is to have the AA completed and submit the findings to the Federal Transit Administration by next March.
Iorio Pledges Support
Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio addressed the Board at the meeting, assuring members of her support for their decision.
"The HART Board is key to making light rail a reality," Mayor Iorio commented in her presentation to the Board members. "It is important from an economic standpoint, from an environmental standpoint, and from a quality of life standpoint."
"It was a very successful meeting," said Temple Terrace Councilman Ron Govin, HART's Board Chair. "We had a unanimous vote, and we're very encouraged with the plan. The Alternatives Analysis is so important, and I'm excited that we got it passed."
About PB Americas, Inc.
Founded in 1885 and headquartered in New York City, PB is a leader in the development and operation of infrastructure to meet the needs of communities around the world. The firm provides strategic consulting, planning, engineering, and program and construction management services to both public and private sector clients.
HART Mission Statement
Our Team is dedicated to providing excellent customer service while building solutions to support Hillsborough County's needs...now and into the future.
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