ReportWire

Tag: APP Traffic & Transit

  • Lakeland to redesign dangerous intersection due to design flaw

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — Officials are taking a closer look at one of Lakeland’s most dangerous roads.

    What You Need To Know

    • The intersection of Sleepy Hill Road and Kennedy Boulevard is known for many car accidents, prompting officials to reevaluate its design

    • Civil Engineering Manager Ryan Lazenby highlights several issues with the road’s design, including a sharp curve

    • Lakeland is allocating $75,000 to redesign the curve and is seeking $1 million in grants to help fund construction costs 


    The intersection of Sleepy Hill Road and Kennedy Boulevard is a known area for car wrecks. When Steven Boutwell isn’t at work, he keeps his ear to the streets nearby.

    “I was just sitting there playing video games, and I just heard ‘errrrr,’ like loud screeches. ‘KAPOW!’ And it was a big, black — I think it was a Ford,” he said.

    That was Boutwell’s description of one of the two car crashes he has witnessed since moving to Sunset Lakes Apartment Complex six months ago. He said it is clear that both wrecks were the result of more than just reckless driving.

    “It definitely has to do with that sharp side right there, especially with those two loopy loops, those turns back to back like that,” Boutwell said. “I don’t know, it’s kind of sketchy. If you’re going at least the speed limit, it still feels like you’re leaning in your car.”

    At Lakeland City Hall, Civil Engineering Manager Ryan Lazenby said it is not very often that collisions are caused by a design flaw. However, after taking a closer look at the intersection recently, he said traffic engineers realized it needs to be completely redesigned.

    “We’ve seen some concerns with the minimal radius out there; it’s about 375 feet. That doesn’t comply with Florida Greenbook requirements. The super elevation is about 2.5%, and given the radius, it doesn’t comply with Florida Greenbook requirements,” he said. “Also, there’s kind of a weird reverse curve effect, so it gets drivers going in one direction before it turns in the other direction. All those things compounded together are leading to some crashes off the road.”

    Twenty-five car accidents were reported on the roadway within the past five years, including one fatal accident in 2021, Lazenby said.

    So far, his team has removed two trees from the median to reduce the number of wrecks.

    The city has allocated $75,000 from its current fiscal budget to redesign the curve on Sleepy Hill Road and will seek $1 million in grants to help with construction costs, Lazenby said. 

    In the meantime, Boutwell advises everyone to drive with caution.

    “You got to pay attention. Just pay attention, honestly,” he said. “It’s a very sharp turn. So it’s just kind of one of those things where anything can happen if you’re not looking out for yourself and around.”

    Lazenby said it will take at least a year to finish the new design of the intersection.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Roadway depression on eastbound U.S. 92 closes one lane

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    BARTOW, Fla. – Crews are investigating a depression in the roadway on eastbound U.S. 92.

    The location is about 1,000 feet west of SR 570 (Polk Parkway) in Auburndale.

    The eastbound lane closest to the median is closed until the cause is determined and crews can make repairs.

    The lane closure is expected to remain in place at least through Wednesday.

    VIEW REAL TIME TRAFFIC MAP

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Bartow Air Traffic Control Academy looks to help industry’s worker shortage

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Following a tragic plane crash in Washington, D.C., a Bay area college is working to address the industry’s staffing shortage.

    “We don’t know what the situation really is until the TSB and FAA tell us what happened,” Randy Clayton, control tower operator and instructor, said.

    “We can’t say it’s a manning issue, but what we can say is that the manning shortfalls do put pressure on the system. We need to make sure that, if it was a manning shortfall or stress from overwork, we need to fill those slots and get people in those positions.”

    Clayton is looking to fill those vacancies through Traviss Technical College’s new Air Traffic Control Academy. The 10-month program will be held at the Bartow Executive Airport as part of its partnership with the accredited school.

    “This is where, whenever we’re doing all of our term exams and things like that, this is where our students will be,” he said, pointing to an empty classroom.

    Classes are set to begin on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Once students complete the course, they must be verified by a control tower operator examiner, who will determine if they’re qualified for a certificate through the FAA.

    “Then you’ll be able to go to the FCTs and NFCTs that we have associations with,” Clayton said. “They’ll plug you into their system, another rotation, you start to get qualified, and join the community.”

    He says hopefully this will help end the industry’s years-long employee shortage and reduce worker burnout.

    “We really want those people to have longevity when it comes to controlling, and this will help that out so they can get more time off, a better work-life ratio, and you know, all of my friends and family who are controllers will be able to continue doing what they’re doing and actually enjoy life,” Clayton said.

    View information on joining Traviss Technical College’s Air Traffic Control Academy.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Free rides for voters across Tampa Bay and Central Florida on Election Day

    Free rides for voters across Tampa Bay and Central Florida on Election Day

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Some ride services across Tampa Bay and Central Florida are offering voters free rides on Election Day! 

    If you’re in need of transportation to get to the polls or around town on Nov. 5, here’s how you can get a free ride in your county. 

    For more info on Decision 2024 and Bay area coverage, visit Spectrum Bay News 9’s Voter Guide.

    For more info on Decision 2024 and Central Florida coverage, visit Spectrum News 13’s Voter Guide.

    PINELLAS COUNTY

    The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is offering free rides to all voters on Election Day, Nov. 5.

    The offer is for PSTA’s fixed service only, and riders qualify for a free ride if:

    • Rider presents Voter Registration Card to the bus operator
    • Rider presents “I Voted” Sticker to the bus operator
    • Rider informs the bus operator they are voting at one of Pinellas’s precincts

    Riders can find their polling location by visiting votepinellas.gov.

    Meanwhile, in St. Petersburg, Lime is teaming up with When We All Vote and Vote Early Day to make voting more accessible for everyone. From 10/29 to 11/5, use promo code VOTE2024 for 2 free 30-minute rides to and from the polls. Find your nearest electric scooter or bike here: https://limebike.app.link/caHa2twXrLb

    If you would prefer to use a scooter to get to the polls, VEO is offering an in ride credit of $5 to get to the polls. All you have to do is use the promo “VOTE24” in the VEO app.

    PASCO COUNTY

    Voters can receive free bus rides to the polls when they show a valid voter information card.  Complimentary bus rides will be available on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the general election.

    “This partnership to benefit the voters of Pasco County epitomizes good government and we are grateful to GoPasco for this program” said Supervisor
    Corley.

    For more information on Pasco County Public Transportation bus routes and schedules, visit gopasco.com/.

    HERNANDO COUNTY

    The Hernando County Transit system (bus service) will be offering FREE rides as long as you provide your Voter Registraction Card.

    CITRUS COUNTY

    For residents in Citrus County, the fixed route system will be free to use to get to the polls. If you do not live near a fixed route, you can call (352) 527-7630 and they will be able to help get you a ride scheduled.

    VOLUSIA COUNTY

    Volusia County’s Transit Services Division is offering free rides to the polls on Election Day, Nov. 5, through its Votran fixed-route, Votran Gold and VoRide services. 

    Votran fixed-route riders can ride for free if they present a valid Volusia County Voter Registration Card. Riders should check in advance for the closest bus stop for their polling destination, as buses won’t make direct stops unless polling locations are on regular routes. 

    Votran Gold Service, which assists disabled residents, will offer free trips directly to polling sites. Gold Service riders should schedule their rides no later than noon on Monday, Nov. 4, by calling 386-322-5100. Riders must show their voter registration card to get the fee waived. 

    VoRide, a curb-to-curb rideshare service available in the DeBary, DeLand, Deltona, and Orange City areas, will provide free roundtrip rides to the polls within its service zones. 

    On Monday, Nov. 4, the day before Election Day, a promotional code will be announced for riders to enter when booking through the app. Riders will need to show their voter registration card to the driver to validate the promotional code

    For more details about the Election Day transportation initiative, route schedules, and fare information, riders can contact Votran customer service at 386-761-7700, visit www.votran.org, or use the myStop mobile app.

    Check back for more counties and services listed. 

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • PSTA drivers transport thousands during back-to-back hurricanes

    PSTA drivers transport thousands during back-to-back hurricanes

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority bus drivers shared firsthand accounts of their lifesaving transportation efforts during Hurricanes Helene and Milton as the agency resumed normal service on Monday.

    What You Need To Know

    • PSTA drivers had 569,853 riders during the pre-storm and post-storm response

    • Pinellas County Emergency Management requested 1,229 targeted evacuation rides 

    • One bus driver lost his possessions when his condo flooded, along with two cars, during Helene  

    • The PSTA fueled up 20 of their oldest buses, which were ready for an immediate response after the storms


    “I’d be driving and having to grit my teeth to keep from crying as I watched,” said Connie Stein, a trolley driver. “I could never have imagined what I was to see on that first day driving that rescue trolley after Helene.” 

    PSTA drivers had 569,853 riders during the pre-storm and post-storm response for the back-to-back hurricanes, which includes 1,229 targeted evacuation rides requested by Pinellas County Emergency Management, according to the agency. Stein estimates she evacuated hundreds of those riders from the beaches who were hit hard by Helene.

    “Their cars were under water and under sand. They basically had nothing but the clothes on their back,” she said. “In some cases, million dollar homes and they lost everything. Some of them looked homeless. They just needed help. They needed to get out of there.” 

    Some drivers are storm victims themselves. Bus driver Leon Smiley said he could not help out during Hurricane Helene because his condo flooded and he lost two cars, but worked around the clock to transport evacuees when Hurricane Milton struck.

    “I got the chance to take my mind off my personal loss and it made me see that there was always somebody in worse shape than you are,” he said. “It made me stop feeling sorry for myself.”

    The largest single relocation operation happened at the Good Samaritan Church in Pinellas Park when Helene knocked out the power and air conditioning. Approximately 300 people had taken refuge in the church with more than 230 who had mobility issues.

    They were transported to a permanent shelter building on higher ground, according to PSTA.

    Dispatcher Chris Blackshear said he volunteered to drive a van to transport people with disabilities after his normal shift ended and it was hard to see all the suffering.

    “I got a heart for people and the stories, it just weighed in on me,” he said. “I felt like I was helping the community and I felt better at the end.” 

    The PSTA said they fueled up 20 of their oldest buses which were ready for an immediate response after the storms to transport people to shelters and for lifesaving kidney dialysis treatments. They moved the fleet of newer buses to higher ground.

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    Josh Rojas

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  • Charter bus service transporting Hillsborough residents to shelters

    Charter bus service transporting Hillsborough residents to shelters

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    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) is offering bus service in Hillsborough County to take residents to emergency shelters.

    Buses will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Residents can call (800) 729-3413 for evacuation assistance.

    This is the bus schedule for Tuesday, Oct. 8:

    Bus 10: Northwest Hillsborough/Tampa

    • A – Winn-Dixie, 13016 Race Track Rd., Tampa, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – ALDI, 10419 Sheldon Road, Tampa, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.

    Bus 11: City of Tampa

    • A – Publix, 2724 W Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – Publix, 2401 W Azeele St., Tampa, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.
    • C – Publix, 4315 W Gandy Blvd., Tampa, FL 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    Bus 12: City of Tampa

    • A – Publix, 6001 N Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – Publix, 1105 E Twiggs St., Tampa, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.

    Bus 13: City of Tampa

    • A – Publix, 11502 N 53rd St, Temple Terrace, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – Publix, 5450 E Busch Blvd., Temple Terrace, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.

    Bus 14: South-Central Hillsborough County

    • A – Winn-Dixie, 6929 U.S. 301, Riverview, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – Publix, 13154 U.S. 301, Riverview, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.
    • C – Winn-Dixie, 1023 S Tamiami Trail, Ruskin, FL 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    Bus 15: Eastern Hillsborough County

    • A – Publix, 2515 Thonotosassa Rd, Plant City, FL 7 – 9:30 a.m.
    • B – Winn-Dixie, 205 W Alexander St, Plant City, FL 9:30 – 11 a.m.

    In addition to the state bus service, the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) is offering free bus service to shelters until 8 p.m. today.

     

    Below is the list of shelters that are open to residents:

    General population, pet friendly shelters:

    • Burnett Middle School (pet friendly), 1010 N. Kingsway Rd., Seffner, FL 33584
    • Durant High School (pet friendly), 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City, FL 33567
    • Middleton High School (pet friendly), 4801 N. 22nd St., Tampa, FL 33610
    • Shields Middle School (pet friendly), 15732 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, FL 33573
    • Sickles High School (pet friendly), 7950 Gunn Hwy., Tampa, FL 33626

    General population, no pet shelter:

    • Pizzo Elementary School, 11701 USF Bull Run Dr., Tampa, FL 33617

    Special needs, pet friendly shelters:

    • Erwin Technical College (special needs only, pet friendly), 2010 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, FL 33610
    • Sumner High School (special needs only, pet friendly), 10650 County Rd. 672, Riverview, FL 33579
    • Strawberry Crest High School (special needs only, pet friendly), 4691 Gallagher Rd., Dover, FL 33527

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Hurricane Milton affects tolls, transportation, services and events

    Hurricane Milton affects tolls, transportation, services and events

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    Transit Operations

    Toll Roads

    Tolls on roads on the Gulf Coast, in Central Florida and along Alligator Alley have been suspended to ease evacuation ahead of Hurricane Milton, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Monday.

    Pinellas Suncoast Transit Association

    Beginning Monday, Oct. 7, all routes, including PSTA Access, will run as scheduled fare-free to assist with evacuation operations. These evacuation services will run until winds reach a sustained 40 mph. Routes will continue to run fare-free as scheduled until 2 p.m. Tuesday. After 2 p.m., PSTA will continue running specific evacuation services at the direction of the Pinellas County government. These evacuation services will run until winds reach a sustained 40 mph.

    PSTA services will be suspended on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The administrative office will be open on Monday but closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

    Entertainment

    Straz Center

    The Straz Center is closed Oct. 8-10 in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. The scheduled performances of “The Man Who Love Batman” are canceled, and ticket-holders will be contacted.

    Amalie Arena

    The Tampa Bay Lightning-Nashville Predators preseason game on Monday, originally re-scheduled from Sept. 27 due to effects from Hurricane Helene, has been canceled as the Tampa Bay region prepares for Hurricane Milton, the team announced Sunday. Single-game ticket-holders inquiring about refunds for Monday’s game should contact their original point of purchase. Bolt for Life Members will receive additional information from their account executives.

     

     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Where to find gas for Milton preps

    Where to find gas for Milton preps

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    Many Floridians are preparing for Milton, and soon many will be searching for gas as the storm gets closer.

    With the GasBuddy Outage Tracker, drivers can search for gas stations nearby, as well as filter by the following criteria:

    • Has Fuel & Power
    • Has No Power
    • Limited Fuel Options
    • Has No Fuel & Power

    Click/Tap on the image below to locate gas stations near you and check their status. For the best results, be sure to share you location. You can also track outages on your phone by downloading the GasBuddy app for Android or iOS.

    Click/Tap on the image for the Gas Buddy Tracker

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Bridge connecting Ohio, Kentucky to close for 30 days

    Bridge connecting Ohio, Kentucky to close for 30 days

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    CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Starting on Sept. 16, the Oakley C. Collins Memorial Bridge will undergo construction to restore the surface of the bridge. The bridge connects Ironton, Ohio with Russell, Kentucky.

    What You Need To Know

    • The current surface is about about eight years old, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation

    • Approximately 1.25 inches of the surface will be milled off and replaced with the new material

    • The closure is expected to last 30 days

    The current surface is about about eight years old, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation. The life-span of the cable-stayed bridge itself is about 80 years.

    “We didn’t want to wait until the surface had passed its expected lifespan to make these critical repairs,” said Ohio Department of Transportation District 9 Deputy Director Mike Dombrowski in a news release. “Doing this preventative maintenance project now means the work isn’t as extensive as it might have been had we waited.”

    Approximately 1.25 inches of the surface will be milled off and replaced with the new material. 

    Because of the bridge’s narrowness, a partial rehab in order to keep one lane open was not feasible, ODOT said in a news release.

    “We know this will be an inconvenience to folks who use this bridge, but we want to ensure that we’re getting the best outcome from the project to maximize the life of the bridge deck, going forward,” Dombrowski said.

    The closure is expected to last 30 days. 

    Traffic headed to Kentucky during the closure will detour to Park Avenue (SR 93), east on US 52, south over the Ohio River on the Ben Williamson Memorial Bridge (12th Street) and west on Winchester Avenue (US 23) in Ashland.

    Traffic from Kentucky into Ohio will detour via Winchester Avenue (US 23) to the Simeon Willis Memorial Bridge (13th Street), west on US 52 and south on Park Avenue (SR 93).

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Manatee County works to beautify medians in south Bradenton

    Manatee County works to beautify medians in south Bradenton

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Crews in Manatee County are wrapping up part of a beautification project in south Bradenton.

    What You Need To Know

    • Crews in Manatee County are beautifying a median on El Conquistador Parkway 

    •  It’s part of a two-and-a-half year project to beautify a portion of south Bradenton

    •  Officials say they’re using money from the southwest tax increment financing, or TIF, fund to pay for the project


    The median that lines El Conquistador Parkway is getting fresh grass and plants to enhance the area for drivers and people who live there.

    There’s something so satisfying about freshly laid grass, it’s like connecting nature’s puzzle pieces to create a beautiful green space.

    Joel Thomas, the head of median beautification installations for Manatee County, says connecting these squares connects medians like this with its surrounding community.

    “We try to mimic some of the style of some of the houses or the businesses around,” Thomas said.

    This is the 13th median in a two-and-a-half-year project that’s adding greener plant life to south Bradenton.

    “We scrape it down, grade it properly, and then we install new irrigation, and whatever plants and trees that the landscape design calls for,” said Thomas.

    The one Thomas is working on calls for grass and other native plants for our region.

    Even in the summer heat, Manatee County crews are making sure this spot looks better than before.

    “It makes a good first impression on Manatee County to see beautiful roadways as they come into the neighborhoods,” Thomas said.

    According to Thomas, they’re using money from the southwest Tax Increment Financing, or TIF, fund to pay for the project and he says once they’re done here, they’ll move on to another median.

    At the same time, they’ll take pride in the work they just accomplished in beautifying this portion of Manatee County.

    “When you see what the median looks like before you start to when you finish, it’s definitely an improved product,” Thomas said.

    And that’s as satisfying as connecting those final puzzle pieces together.

    Thomas says he wants the public to get involved by giving their opinion on medians that could use some beautification.

    He hopes that once this project is fully done, it might be able to expand to other parts of the county.

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    Nick Popham

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  • New details released in wreck that killed driver, injured Charlotte officers

    New details released in wreck that killed driver, injured Charlotte officers

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 29-year-old man was killed and two Charlotte-Meckleburg police officers were hurt in a crash on an Interstate 485 off-ramp in Charlotte Wednesday morning, officials said.

    What You Need To Know

    • One person is dead and two Charlotte-Mecklenberg police officers were injured after a crash Thursday morning

    • It happened on Interstate 485 near Mt. Holly Road Wednesday morning

    • CMPD said the officers were investigating a report of a stolen car when a vehicle crashed into the police cars and another car


    Officers said they were investigating a reported stolen car on the side of I-485 near Mt. Holly Road when the driver of a motorhome slammed into the two CMPD cars, as well as the car of the person who originally made the call.

    The person who made the call, identified by police as 29-year-old Brian Lavon Battle, died at the scene, according to MEDIC. A CMPD officer had to be pulled from a car by first responders before being sent to the hospital, police said. Another CMPD officer also was taken to the hospital.

    CMPD Maj. Ryan Butler said during a Thursday afternoon press conference that one officer remains at Atrium Health hospital. The other had minor injuries and was released.

    “Nobody involved in a situation like this walks away unaffected by it,” Butler said. “This impacts multiple people.”

    “We’re dealing with multiple people injured and most importantly we’re dealing with the loss of life. That does not just impact that one individual, their immediate family members, their friends or their co-workers, that affects a much wider circle. That certainly affects the wider Charlotte community — that affects all of us,” he said.

    CMPD’s Major Crash Division is handling the investigation.

    Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said no formal charges have been filed at this time against the driver of the motorhome, who received minor injuries.

    Anyone with additional information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

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    Jennifer L. Roberts

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  • Bartow Squeeze offers free golf cart rides around downtown Bartow

    Bartow Squeeze offers free golf cart rides around downtown Bartow

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    BARTOW, Fla. — There is a new way to get around downtown Bartow — by golf cart!

    What You Need To Know

    • The Bartow Squeeze launched earlier this month

    • It’s a free golf cart ride offered by Citrus Connection

    • It has several stops in downtown Bartow

    • The free service runs Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.


    The service called the Bartow Squeeze aims to help downtown workers on their lunch break.

    The Bartow Squeeze is a form of microtransit that launched earlier this month.  

    It’s a golf cart that is offered by Citrus Connection, in partnership with the Bartow Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

    The downtown Bartow stops include the courthouse, government office, shops and restaurants.

    “A golf cart is extremely easy to get on to,” said Dr. Thomas Santarlas, Vice Chairman of the CRA. “It’s mobile. It makes things a lot more friendly. You’re able to talk with the people you’re riding with. And be able to enjoy the scenery of Bartow.”

    Santarlas said the goal is to bring together the business owners and the employees of the city.

    The free service runs Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

    It’s geared toward office workers who don’t want to give up their coveted parking spots but also want to get a quick bite during their break.

    Shana Bennett, owner of the Cookie Jar bakery, is excited to see the service launch and hopes it will have a positive impact on her business.

    “People can experience what we have to offer and enjoy what their hometown brings to the table and not have to worry if they’re going to make it back in time or not,” Bennett said.

    Citrus Connection has found success with similar services throughout Polk County, including the Lakeland Squeeze and the Lake Wales Squeeze.

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    Tim Wronka

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  • More electric buses coming to Pinellas County roads

    More electric buses coming to Pinellas County roads

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is adding to its fleet of electric buses thanks to the help of a federal grant.

    What You Need To Know

    • Federal grant money will purchase 12 electric and 4 hybrid buses along with chargers

    • Grant also paying for maintenence team to recieve additional training on how to best care for new electric buses 

    • Electric buses get 230-270 miles each charge 

    • Each bus takes about 18 months to build 


    The agency calls it the largest federal grant of its kind to be awarded to Pinellas County, totaling $27.8 million.

    With the grant money, PSTA will purchase 12 new electric buses and four hybrid-electric buses as well as 12 new charging stations. The funding will also help with training the maintenance team on the latest technology.

    Henry Lukasik, who works at the Director of Maintenance for PSTA, says the new buses will be replacing some of the fleet’s diesel buses that were first put on the road in 2006. The diesel buses get about 4 miles per gallon and will have over 1 million miles on them when they are finally retired.

    The agency opted to get a mix of hybrid-electric and electric buses with the grant money. They first started getting hybrid buses in 2009 and they are the sole vehicle used for the Sunrunner routes.

    “We probably look at about a 35% reduction in the maintenance of a hybrid-electric fleet versus standard diesel,” Lukasik said.

    The hybrid vehicles get about 5.5 miles to the gallon which Lukasik says may not sound like much, but makes a huge difference.

    “In our industry, getting a mile and half more per gallon saves lots of money in fuel expenses,” he said.

    The agency already has a few electric buses and 56 more on order. This grant will provide an additional 12 electric buses and the four hybrids. Lukasik says these buses get between 230 and 270 miles on one charge and charge up in just about 4 hours.

    They also have thermosheilded windows which is a layer between the panes of glass that block out over 99% of UV light.

    “Thermosheilded windows increase range because it’s not used for air conditioning systems,” Lukasik said.

    The buses take about 18 months to build and will be rolling into PSTA a few at a time each month until the order is complete.

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    Angie Angers

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  • Pasco County leaders approve road tax, plan to pave 4,200 lane miles

    Pasco County leaders approve road tax, plan to pave 4,200 lane miles

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    LACOOCHEE, Fla. — Changes are on the way for Pasco County homeowners when it comes to paying for road paving and maintenance.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new countywide tax is changing the way road maintenance and improvements are being made in Pasco County

    • The new tax replaces a program that required residents to vote on road projects, instead opting with a tax that all homeowners will have to pay

    • For the average homeowner, officials say the tax would equate between $85 and $100 a year

    • The county has a total of 4,200 lane miles and the plan is to pave, on average, 130 lane miles per year


    County leaders recently approved a new countywide tax that changes how much homeowners pay for road improvements. The new tax replaces a program that required residents to vote on road projects.

    But the new tax is raising some concerns among existing homeowners.

    “Born here, raised here, all my life,” said Lacoochee homeowner Leon Mercer.

    Living on what was once a farm, Mercer’s home is surrounded by many unpaved roads. But due to the new countywide road tax, that may all change.

    Charging homeowners a tax to help with road maintenance, including paving, was a worrying thought for Mercer.

    “When they do that, they’re going to put a cul-de-sac at the end and more people are going to want to come down here and buy out some of these pieces like mine and my neighbor’s,” said Mercer. “If they sell, that’s the way of life.”

    But those within Pasco County government say that’s not the case. Instead, under the new tax, roads under the worst condition will be repaired first.

    “We’re going to equally base it out throughout five districts, five commissioners,” said Pasco County Commissioner Ronald Oakley. “So we’ll get paving in all of these districts that will help all across the county to improve our roads and they very much need to be improved.”

    Each homeowner’s tax, Oakley said, will be dependent on their property value.

    “It charges $51.84 per $100,000 value,” said Oakley. “To let you know what that means to a taxpayer, the median value of homes in Pasco County is $163,579.”

    Oakley said for the average homeowner this would equate to between $85 and $100 a year.

    Mercer’s only other concern is equal distribution of that tax money. Ensuring that all roads throughout the county are maintained.

    “If they do anything, put some money on this side of the county and don’t restrict anybody,” he said.

    Pasco County officials say they expect road work to start next year. Also saying they will stop billing property owners during paving projects under the old system.

    The county has a total of 4,200 lane miles and county leaders say the plan is to pave an average of 130 lane miles per year.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Haines City to add speeding cameras in school zones

    Haines City to add speeding cameras in school zones

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    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Schools in Haines City will soon have cameras installed to catch drivers speeding through school zones.

    What You Need To Know

    • Haines City are introducing speeding cameras in school zones throughout the city

    • The ordinance was approved by the city commission in June

    • Officials said cameras would become active 30 minutes before and after the school day

    • Haines City has about 12 schools in the city so officials hope at least some of them will have cameras installed by the start of the next school year


    The ordinance was approved by the city commission earlier in June, making it the first city in Polk County to add these cameras to local schools.

    Before becoming police chief in Haines City, Greg Goreck worked in the traffic unit for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and says he’s seen what happens when people drive dangerously.

    “One of our major complaints that came in was cars that were speeding through school zones,” Goreck said. “And it is a constant battle because we just do not have enough law enforcement resources to be in every school zone both times a day, every day of the week.”

    He’s been the top cop in Haines City for about two years now, and that battle is still something he faces.

    “On a monthly basis,” he said, “if not weekly basis, we’re getting complaints from educators, students and parents alike that are calling in reference to some type of traffic concerns within our school zones.”

    In the time Spectrum Bay News 9 was outside Alta Vista Elementary School, two cars drove through the crosswalk as the news crew and the police chief were trying to cross, and one almost drove into Goreck until he stopped him after claiming the driver was on his phone.

    “Those ones that are purposely speeding through school zones, they think it’s fair game if they don’t see a patrol car,” Goreck said.

    That’s why he’s excited the city commission has approved installing speeding cameras in school zones.

    The technology will be able to detect whether a person is going over the 20 mile an hour speed limit at the beginning or end of the school day.

    It gives the city a bird’s-eye view at all times, according to Goreck.

    “They’re not going to be an end all, cure all,” he said. “But it does give me a little bit of peace in the fact that, again, we’re going to be able to determine who these violators are and hold them accountable, because if an officer is not here, they’re not being held accountable for their egregious actions.”

    Haines City is the first community in Polk County to approve these cameras with funding coming from the Florida legislature.

    The city has about 12 schools, so Goreck hopes that at least some of them will have cameras installed by the start of the next school year.

    “When we talk to the companies of what we can install, when we can install them, and we’ll do it on a worst-case basis first, and then move on to the ones that maybe have a lower recidivism rate when it comes to violators,” Goreck said.

    Goreck says the cameras would become active 30 minutes before and after the school day.

    The chief says he’s already started reaching out and meeting with companies to determine what kind of cameras the city will install around its schools.

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    Nick Popham

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  • PSTA pilot program offers Historic Kenwood members a yearly bus pass

    PSTA pilot program offers Historic Kenwood members a yearly bus pass

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority teamed up with the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association to try out a pilot program to encourage more public transit use.

    What You Need To Know

    •  If you join the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Assoication, you pay $35 for a bus pass for an entire year 

    •  The assoication has seen a 30% increase in members since the program launched in June 

    •  PSTA says the program is growing in popularity 


    The program is simple: Members of the association pay a flat fee of $35 to get a yearly transit card that is used on buses around Pinellas County. It costs $5 for one round-trip ticket.  

    Alexis Baum, with the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association, helped create the partnership with PSTA. She said the program has boosted association membership by 30% since it launched in June.

    “We all know it’s important for the growth of the city. It’s important for so many reasons — the environment and traffic,” Baum said.  

    PSTA Communications and Public Relations Manager Stephanie Weaver said others are taking notice about the pilot program’s success so far.

    “Our phones have been ringing off the hook from neighborhoods in St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, who are interested in this. But again, we are going to wait until we see the data for the next year,” Weaver said.

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    Jeff Van Sant

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  • Cleveland RTA temporarily closing red line’s W. 117 – Madison station

    Cleveland RTA temporarily closing red line’s W. 117 – Madison station

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    CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland RTA will be temporarily closing the W. 117 – Madison station on July 17 for rehabilitation.

    A post from the RTA said the platforms and track bridges were built back in 1953.

    All other stations on the red line will remain in service during this period, and bus service at the stop will continue despite the rail closure.

     

     

     

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Frustration growing over U.S. 19 construction in Pinellas

    Frustration growing over U.S. 19 construction in Pinellas

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — As construction ramps up on the U.S. 19 overhaul in Pinellas, frustration is growing among drivers and businesses in the work zone.

    What You Need To Know

    • Construction continues the U.S. 19 reconfiguration from State Road 580 to north of Curlew Road

    • Some businesses and drivers are frustrated by the extra traffic from the lane closures

    • FDOT officials say the $242 million project is estimated to be done in 2029


    The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is reconfiguring U.S. 19 from State Road 580 to north of Curlew Road.

    Tom Layton has been repairing cars at Roberts Collision in Clearwater for 25 years. The entrance to his business has been right in the thick of the road work for the past year.

    “We’re just trying to be where we’ve always been,” Layton said. “I’m sure along the way we’ve lost some customers. They say this is scary, and off they go.”

    One of the big changes came earlier this year as the project moved forward.

    FDOT removed the frontage road that was outside Roberts Collision and the other businesses on U.S. 19 just north of State Road 580, which can cause a choke point for northbound traffic.

    Crews also closed the right lane in both directions up to Curlew Road.

    “With the frontage road, it made life much easier than it is now. Because people are having to flip over at the last minute to and get in,” Layton said.

    That can especially be a problem during the rush hour.

    Layton says he now sees delays every afternoon, from the Countryside Mall to Curlew Road.   

    “At about 4 p.m., it is packed solid out here,” Layton said.

    FDOT officials say the project should ultimately help with the traffic.

    It will make U.S. 19 operate similar to how it does south of State Road 580, with six-lane overpasses and new frontage roads to help with traffic flow.

    Layton hopes that the changes will be worth the long wait.

    “We all have our fingers crossed. We’re working hard to keep our customers’ confidence of getting in and out and trying to navigate this. But it’s just another thing that we really didn’t need,” Layton said.

    FDOT officials say the $242 million project is estimated to be done in 2029.

    In the meantime, FDOT officials say a permanent change to the existing traffic pattern in front of Roberts Collision will be made in mid-2026. A new single-lane frontage road will allow drivers to access the businesses there easier.

    Officials also say that as work progresses on this project, drivers can expect some changes to traffic patterns. 

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    Tim Wronka

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  • Zephyrhills seeks public input on mobility plan as traffic increases

    Zephyrhills seeks public input on mobility plan as traffic increases

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    ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. — It seems like everywhere drivers go in the Tampa Bay area, traffic is inevitable. But some residents in quieter rural areas say driving for them has become a nightmare.

    What You Need To Know

    • The city of Zephyrhills is asking residents for their input on the city’s mobility plan

    • As more people move to Zephyrhills and its surrounding areas, traffic on roads has become increasingly busier
    • Residents say that once quiet neighborhoods have turned into a flurry of traffic activity and construction
    • The city is still asking for public feedback on their mobility plan and for locals to get involved


    Some residents say a recent influx in traffic activity has caused concern among homeowners. The issue has caused some to speak with local leaders about ways to improve the way they get around.

    At a busy intersection off of Eiland Boulevard, cars zoom past Richard Lynch as he waits for his turn to go.

    “It’s kind of scary when you’re trying to pull out and make a left turn out of here, because traffic is going 55 miles an hour both ways,” he said. “It’s urban versus suburban, basically. So now we’re kind of dealing with the suburban issues.”

    Lynch has been living in the area with his wife for nine months — he said they were attracted by its rural charm.

    “We’re familiar with the area and we always like the small-town feel of it,” he said.

    But thanks to the construction of new homes, Lynch said what was once a quiet neighborhood has quickly turned into a flurry of traffic activity. 

    “There are major roads now dumping off on our streets, and all of these houses are going up and there’s no roads for them,” he said. “There’s no way to move these people effectively, and it’s only going to get worse. That’s something that needs to be addressed.”

    The issue has been brought to the attention of the city and Planning Director Todd Vandenberg, who is playing a role in the city’s ongoing mobility plan.

    “We’re partnering and collaborating with local folks, county folks, state folks, and with a couple of consultants to come up with a mobility plan,” he said. “We’re identifying existing conditions, looking at what we’re experiencing now from a traffic standpoint and then coming up with recommendations and strategies of where and how we can deal with traffic.”

    Zephyrhills was recently approved for a grant from the state for road infrastructure and received $75,000 for their mobility plan. Vandenberg said the funds are a big boost for the project, but the timeline for completion is still vague.

    “Especially on a state or federal highway, there are additional standards that have to be met, which involves taking some more time to get that project completed versus a local road where we don’t have some of those same standards that we have to deal with,” he said.

    And timing, as Lynch said, is key. With more and more homes going up, he believes a plan for traffic will be necessary.

    “They need something faster and more solutions out there,” Lynch said. “And that’s what we’re hoping for.”

    The city is still asking for public feedback on their mobility plan. Residents can get involved online by visiting the Innovate Pasco 2050 website.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Crews repurposing lanes of 34th Street in St. Pete, but resident has concerns

    Crews repurposing lanes of 34th Street in St. Pete, but resident has concerns

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Plans to repurpose lanes on 34st Street in St. Petersburg are moving foward.

    What You Need To Know

    • The project — changing the outside lanes from 30th Avenue South to 54th Avenue in the Skyway Marina District — has been years in the making

    • Sharon Calvert, who has lived in the area for years, is worried about losing lanes of traffic

    • Officials with Forward Pinellas say the area’s growth is accounted for in this project and that drivers should not see more traffic as a result

    • More Getting There headlines

    But some residents are concerned about losing lanes of traffic.

    The project — changing the outside lanes from 30th Ave S to 54th Ave in the Skyway Marina District — has been years in the making.

    The lanes will be converted to bus lanes and cars making right turns. The idea is to help slow down traffic and make the area safer for pedestrians.

    Sharon Calvert, who has lived in the area for years, is worried about losing lanes of traffic.

    “Don’t take a functional road and make it dysfunctional,” Calvert said.

    She is mostly concerned about the amount of growth around 34th Street that can add to the traffic on the road. 

    “Building luxury apartments, huge parking garages. It’s just going to feed more traffic, and of course we have the tourists,” she said. “We have booming tourism right now.”

    But officials with Forward Pinellas said that growth is accounted for in this project and that drivers should not see more traffic as a result.

    “Because I-275 runs directly parallel, that roadway is very under capacity,” said Chelsea Favero, planning manager for Forward Pinellas. “That leads to a lot more vehicles that are speeding and traveling at unsafe speeds. So by repurposing, we believe we can still accommodate the growth in the corridor while also providing a safe environment for everyone.”

    Calvert remains skeptical, however.

    “There’s ways to calm the traffic without taking a lane away that we use every day,” she said.

    The project has support from the city of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County.

    The work includes new sidewalks, crosswalks and paving. It is set to be done later this year. 

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    Tim Wronka

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