ReportWire

Tag: traffic and transit

  • Mecklenburg Co. voters pass sales tax increase for transit improvements

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Voters in Mecklenburg County have passed a one-cent sales tax increase to fund transportation improvements over 30 years. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Voters in Mecklenburg County passed a sales tax increase in Tuesday’s election to fund transportation improvements over the next 30 years

    • The sales tax will increase from 7.25% to 8.25% starting July 1, 2026

    • The additional tax revenue will go to rail projects, road improvements, bus and microtransit service

    • Prior to Election Day, supporters said it would bring better transit options while opponents argued the cost would impact low-income families 


    Beginning July 1, 2026, the sales tax will increase from 7.25% to 8.25%, which the city of Charlotte estimates will be about $19 more a month per household. 

    The tax will fund the 2055 Transit System Plan, according to Charlotte Area Transit interim CEO Brent Cagle, which includes rail construction, road improvements, and better bus and microtransit service. 

    “It increases frequency, reliability, security and options accessibility throughout transit, so it’s really a holistic plan to address mobility needs,” Cagle said. 

    Charlotte estimates the increased tax revenue will generate $19.4 billion over 30 years. Forty percent will go to rail projects, another 40% to roads, and 20% to buses and microtransit service.

    The plan includes a new commuter rail connecting Uptown to North Charlotte, Huntersville, Cornelius and Davidson, expanded streetcar and light rail with access to the airport. 

    Officials say it will improve traffic flow on roads and add more bike lanes, sidewalks and traffic signals to communities. Buses will also have expanded service hours and come to the busiest stops more often and microtransit will be expanded across the county.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Estephany Escobar, Spectrum News Staff

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  • Mecklenburg voters to decide on sales tax increase for transit improvements

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Voters in Mecklenburg County are considering a one-cent sales tax increase on Election Day to fund transportation improvements over 30 years. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Voters in Mecklenburg County will decide on a sales tax increase to fund transportation improvements over the next 30 years

    • If passed, the sales tax would increase from 7.25% to 8.25%

    • The additional tax revenue would go to rail projects, road improvements, bus and microtransit service

    • Supporters say it would bring better transit options while opponents argue the cost would affect low-income families 


    If passed, the sales tax would increase from 7.25% to 8.25%, which the city of Charlotte estimates would be about $19 more a month per household. 

    Charlotte Area Transit interim CEO Brent Cagle said it would fund the 2055 Transit System Plan, which includes rail construction, road improvements, and better bus and microtransit service. 

    “It increases frequency, reliability, security and options accessibility throughout transit, so it’s really a holistic plan to address mobility needs,” Cagle said. 

    Charlotte estimates the increased tax revenue would generate $19.4 billion over 30 years. Forty percent would go to rail projects, another 40% to roads, and 20% to buses and microtransit service. 

    Related: Election Day Preview: A look at who’s running in Durham, Fayetteville and Greensboro

    The plan includes a new commuter rail connecting Uptown to North Charlotte, Huntersville, Cornelius and Davidson, expanded streetcar and light rail with access to the airport. 

    It would improve traffic flow on roads and add more bike lanes, sidewalks and traffic signals to communities. Buses would also have expanded service hours and come to the busiest stops more often and microtransit would be expanded across the county. 

    Transit rider Juan Contreras Juarez, who volunteers for the Yes for Meck campaign, supports the plan. 

    “I think in general, understanding that there’s a bus that comes every 15 minutes would take a lot of stress from the families. They depend on the bus system. There’s a lot of anxiety that comes with it. You go to your bus stop, you’re hurrying because if you miss it, the next bus is in 30 minutes,” Contreras Juarez said. 

    Opponents, including Action NC, say a permanent tax unfairly affects people who can least afford to pay and that more than $200 per year would be a burden to the working class and low-income families. 

    Cagle argues these groups make up the majority of transit riders. 

    “We also think about who benefits from this the most: our riders and how do we benefit them. And they will benefit from this,” Cagle said.

    Craig Reynolds opposes the sales tax and is working with Action NC on their campaign. 

    In his perspective, there are no guarantees with the plan and the current half-cent sales tax has not delivered. 

    “My main point is just look at the failed promises that have happened over the last 27 years,” Reynolds said. 

    He also takes issue with the new regional transit authority that would oversee spending of this investment. 

    “My concern is there’s lack of accountability in this plan. If you look at it, this is an appointed authority of 27 members. It’s not elected, but yet it has the ability to tax citizens. It has the ability to take their property through eminent domain,” Reynolds said. 

    Charlotte City Council member Ed Driggs is reviewing applications for the board. The Republican and self-described fiscal conservative worked to put this item on the ballot. He’s chair of the Transportation, Planning and Development Committee of the city council and is part of the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization. 

    He said the board can improve transit safety, which has been in the spotlight since the killing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on the light rail in August.

    “They will be able to have a police force of their own and that will help provide a better level of security and they will also have more resources to invest,” Driggs said. 

    Cagle said if the referendum doesn’t pass, the 2055 Transit System Plan cannot be implemented.

    “We are utilizing all of the existing funding. and this transit system plan cannot be implement, cannot be implemented without additional funding,” Cagle said.

    If it fails, CATS will also need to evaluate current spending and ensure the transit system meets financial metrics. A future referendum would then be placed in the hands of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners. In addition, the PAVE Act, which gave approval for this item to be on the ballot, would have to be amended due to the timeline outlined in it. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

    Estephany Escobar

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  • COTA to offer fare free rides for Election Day

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Election Day is next week and the Central Ohio Transit Authority is providing fare-free rides for voters to ensure Ohioans can cast their votes. 

    Through its “Rolls to the Polls” initiative, all transit fares are waived for customers on Tuesday, Nov. 4, on COTA’s fixed-route bus system, COTA Mainstream, Mainstream On-Demand and COTA//Plus.

    “Providing fare-free service on Election Day reflects COTA’s commitment to removing any barrier and ensuring that every Central Ohioan has an equal opportunity to make their voice heard,” said COTA President/CEO Monica Téllez-Fowler. “Waving transit fares on Election Day is a simple but powerful way to show that mobility and democracy go hand in hand.”

    Voters can confirm their polling location on the Franklin County Board of Elections website and plans their trip at COTA.com or the Transit app on their smartphone.

    Madison MacArthur

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  • Revamped Cross Bay Ferry’s return moves a step closer

    PINELLAS COUNTY – The Cross Bay Ferry is a step closer to returning.

    The service, which ferries passengers between Tampa and St. Pete’s downtowns, could return with a new local operator and new boats.

    What You Need To Know

    • Cross Bay Ferry service moves closer to returning 

    • PSTA has recommended the Hubbard’s Marina group to take over ferry operations

    • Votes with Tampa and St. Pete city councils remain, along with PSTA contracts that need to be approved
    • A new ferry service could begin service by next summer

    The Cross Bay Ferry service was terminated after the previous operator wanted to swap out the ferry with a slower boat. That boat would’ve taken twice as long to cross the bay, which violated their agreement with Hillsborough County.

    Hillsborough County commissioners then terminated the agreement with HMS Ferries in mid April.

    The U.S. Department of Transportation earlier approved a transfer of a nearly $5 million grant from the Hillsborough Area Reginal Transit Authority to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority.

    Now, after company bids to take over the service, the PSTA has recommended the Hubbard’s Marina group to take over ferry operations. The selection was unanimous among transit leaders.

    The Hubbard family owns Hubbards Ferry, a Pinellas County staple that has operated passenger boats and fishing tours for decades in Madeira Beach.

    Captain Dylan Hubbard’s family owns Hubbards Ferry, a Pinellas County staple that has operated passenger boats and fishing tours for decades in Madeira Beach. (Spectrum News image)

    “We’re very blessed and very honored,” said Captain Dylan Hubbard of the recommendation. “And looking forward to our relationship with PSTA growing and the relationship with our cities, Tampa, Saint Pete and the local, transportation boards. It’s, definitely an exciting time.”

    However, several steps remain the process before the service could resume. The PSTA plans to use the federal grant to purchase two vessels. Then, final approval would be needed from city council members in both Tampa and St. Pete, along with the PSTA board.  

    A 5-year operating agreement from both cities also would have to be approved by the PSTA.

    Tentative votes are scheduled for Nov. 6 in both Tampa and St. Pete. PTSA’s full board has a final vote scheduled for Dec. 3.

    A revamped ferry service, rebranded Tampa Bay Ferry, and planned to run year-round for the first time, could be up and running by next summer.

    Erica Riggins

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  • Downtown Clearwater and Clearwater Beach parking rates go up

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The next time you go to Downtown Clearwater or Clearwater Beach, you’ll be paying more to park. 

    The new rates went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025.

    What You Need To Know

    • Downtown Clearwater’s on-street parking is going from 50 cents to $1 an hour. Downtown garage rates are also increasing



    • Clearwater Beach parking is also going up. On-street parking is now $4 an hour, and lots are rising to $3.50 an hour



    • The city said the new rates will encourage turnover and better support downtown



    • The updated rates went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025




    The city said the rates will encourage turnover and better support downtown. 

    Lao Deli, a pop-up restaurant, is partnering with Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar in Downtown Clearwater to share their love for Lao food.

    “We know we can reach the masses about Lao food in this area,” said Somsai Thongsavanh, co-owner of Lao Deli.

    Being in Downtown Clearwater, Thongsavanh said they see their fair share of tourists during the spring and winter months. 

    “I wish that folks would just come down when there’s a concert, there are events that’s happening, go check out the calendar,” Thongsavanh said.

    On-street parking is going from 50 cents to $1 an hour, and downtown garages are now 75 cents an hour. 

    “I don’t know how much that’s going to affect that. It’s a slight increase. So, it’s one of those things where we’ll see what happens,” he said.

    The owner of Chiang Mai Thai, who’s had the busines for 18 years agrees. She said she doesn’t expect much to change.

    “We’re seeing people come and go all the time. Prices on things go up, go down, and it didn’t affect anything,” said Nola Louvon, Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar.

    Beach parking is also going up. On-street parking is now $4 an hour, and lots are rising to $3.50 an hour. 

    “I don’t feel good about it, but hopefully they’ll do something about it and make it lower,” said Pierre Kayrouz, beachgoer.

    Either way, Thongsavanh said he’s optimistic for the future because he said the area has a lot to offer.

    “Once you come through here, you’ll want to come back again,” Thongsavanh said.

    And hopefully, Thongsavanh said, you’ll have some Lao food too.

    Clearwater residents can get a 50% discount on both downtown and beach parking. They just have to apply for a permit.

    The BayCare Sound will also have a new flat rate for large events. Starting two hours before the event, parking will be $5.

    Tyler O’Neill

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  • New Citrus Connection pilot project to extend service hours

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Citrus Connection recently announced it is extending service by three hours on its most popular routes.

    What You Need To Know

    • Citrus Connection will add three more hours of service to five of its busiest routes as part of a $1.1 million pilot project

    • Nearly 65% of riders requested longer service hours, with many relying on buses to get home from later shifts

    • The two-year project begins in October 2026


    The move is part of a $1.1 million pilot project funded by the Florida Department of Transportation.

    The extended service pilot project will focus on the following routes, which account for over 50% of the transit company’s ridership:

    • Gold Line (U.S. 98 North — Lakeland business corridor)
    • Blue Line 2 (South Florida Avenue — Lakeland)
    • Route 30 (Winter Haven to Legoland)
    • Route 15 (Lake Alfred to Haines City)
    • Purple Line (regional connector: Lakeland Downtown Terminal to Winter Haven Downtown Terminal)

    Most mornings, you’ll find resident Nancy Cooper waiting in downtown Lakeland for the Purple Line. Since retiring in 2005, she says exploring the different stops along the way has helped keep her busy.

    “I love getting out each and every day. Sometimes I ride the bus to different cities,” she said.

    However, she says she’s unable to stay out for long. Service ends at varying times on bus routes, but the latest is currently 7:15 p.m.

    “If I’m some place after that time, I’ve got to walk home, catch an Uber to try to get home,” she said.

    Like Cooper, nearly 65% of Citrus Connection’s customers requested longer service hours, according to a recent survey. Now, General Manager Tom Phillips says the transit system is able to meet riders’ needs, especially those who work later shifts.

    “This allows us to be relevant in the second-shift workers’ lives, but also allows those people in the service sector, people who are working at restaurants for example, now they can pick up later shifts and still use public transportation,” Phillips said.

    While the pilot project is only expected to last for two years starting in October 2026, Cooper hopes the initiative stays around.

    “That would be a good idea and also on Sundays, you know?” she said.

    So she can continue visiting new places as she enjoys her retirement.

    Alexis Jones

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  • Dayton police intensify efforts after uptick in traffic accidents

    DAYTON, Ohio — The Dayton Police Department said it’s ramping up enforcement efforts after an increase in traffic crashes and traffic-related complaints. 

    Dayton police said its main focus will be Interstate 75 and U.S. 35 within city limits. Authorities said property damage crashes are up more than 13% so far this year compared to the same time period in 2024.

    “Using crash data and traffic complaint data, we will expand enforcement to additional problem areas as needed,” the department said.

    The department warned enforcement will not be limited to just traffic stops. It plans to use handheld photo devices to capture a driver’s speed and plate. If in violation, the department said its vendor will issue a citation.

    “Every day we have conducted highway enforcement, vehicles have been recorded traveling in excess of 100 mph,” the department said.

    Lydia Taylor

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  • Durham wants help planning where to put new sidewalks and bike lanes

    The City of Durham and Durham County are asking for feedback on their Bike + Walk Plan for the region.

    What You Need To Know

    •  People living in Durham can help choose what bike lane and sidewalk projects will be completed next 

    •  There are 150 project proposals currently and the community’s feedback will narrow that down to 75 

    •  Feedback can be left online or in-person at one of seven upcoming events 


    People living in the county or city can voice their preference for which projects out of the 150 bike lane, sidewalk and intersection improvement proposals they would like to see completed.

    People can leave comments online on the interactive map of the proposed projects or in-person at one of the upcoming engagement events:  

    Sept. 30, 6-8 p.m. at W.G. Pearson Center, 600 E Umstead St.

    Oct. 3, 6-8 p.m. at Durham Central Park, 501 Foster St.

    Oct. 4, 12-4 p.m. at North Durham Farmer’s Marker, 1016 Old Oxford Road

    Oct. 5, 12-5 p.m. at Move-a-Bull City Open Streets, Blackwell St., Corcoran St. and Foster St. Corridor

    Oct. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at North Regional Library, 221 Milton Road

    Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Campus Hills Park, 2000 S Alston Ave.

    Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Holton Career & Resource Center, 401 N Driver St.  

     

    Durham transportation staff will be at these events to answer questions and collect the community’s input. There will also be a survey at the end, and those who fill it out will get a chance to win a $200 gift card in a randomized drawing.

    Comments will be taken through the end of October. After that, the feedback will be used to pick the top 75 projects to be prioritized.

    The 150 project proposals were made based on comments the city and county collected last year during phase one of the project. In the fall of 2024, the project team received 1,895 map comments marking spots where people wanted to see more pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.

    The team is made up of city and county staff with support from the Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization.

    Phase three, the final draft of the plan, is set to finish in early 2026.

    People can register for the upcoming events or sign up for emailed project updates here.

    Caroline King

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  • I-75 reopens hours after dump truck hits overpass in Marion County

    MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Interstate 75 reopened Wednesday morning, hours after a dump truck hit an overpass in northern Marion County overnight.

    The impact caused damage to the County Road 320 bridge, and major delays on southbound I-75, according to the Florida Department of Transportation. 

    “Preliminary looks like (the dump truck driver) had been working in the area and the dump bed was up,” said FDOT District 5 Spokeswoman Cindi Lane. 

    FDOT said the 55-year-old driver from Ocala, was driving the dump truck with the bed in a raised position when it collided with the overpass, causing significant damage. The driver of the truck was not injured. 

    The crash initially caused all southbound lanes on I-75 to close between County Road 234 (Exit 374) in Alachua County and County Road 318 (Exit 268) in Marion County.

    FDOT said drivers should still expect delays and use caution in the area as crews continue to work on repairs. 

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • ODOT reports major decline in crashes when intersections become roundabouts

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) officials provided funding for more than 25 roundabouts in July, which has resulted in a noticeable decline in crashes.

    What You Need To Know

    • ODOT reports that single-lane roundabout have caused a 69% decrese in injury crashes    

    • Gov. Mike DeWine announced $137 million in projects during July 2025    

    • Twenty-five roundabounts are set to be installed in the coming months

    ODOT reported, of the 76 intersections that had been converted to roundabouts, that single lane roundabouts resulted in a 69% decrease in injury crashes and a 25% decline in dangerous crashes when multi-lane roundabouts are used.

    The data comes ahead of National Roundabouts Week, an event centered around saving lives.

    “Safety is the driving force behind every decision we make, and the results are clear, roundabouts are very effective at reducing crashes and saving lives,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn. “Our goal is to continue to support our local, county and state partners by providing funding for roundabouts.”

    Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced several traffic projects amounting to $137 million in cost during July, including 25 roundabout installments.

    Ryan Johnston

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  • Aloma Park resident frustrated over drivers blocking entrance to neighborhood

    WINTER PARK, Fla. — Drivers who seem like they are ignoring traffic signs off Aloma Avenue in Seminole County are causing concern and frustration for one Aloma Park resident. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Chris Hill says drivers ignore the ‘Do Not Block Intersection’ sign at the intersection of Aloma Avenue and Shale Court

    • Hill says a white X needs to be added to the pavement on Aloma Avenue to further emphasize drivers shouldn’t block the intersection

    • Florida Department of Transportation officials say there are plans to start a corridor study of Aloma Avenue soon


    Chris Hill said it’s difficult to get to and from his neighborhood off Aloma Avenue.

    “I have to sit here and wait to get in my own housing development,” he said.

    Hill lives off Shade Court, near where Aloma Avenue meets Howell Branch Road and Hall Road.

    It’s a busy spot where traffic gets backed up.

    “Sometimes the traffic will be backed up around the corner trying to get through this light,” he said.

    Even though there’s a sign that warns drivers not to block the intersection at Shale Court, Hill said they still do.

    He said he would like to see crews paint a white X on the pavement of Aloma Avenue at Shale Court to further emphasize that drivers should not block the intersection.

    He says it’s not just drivers ignoring signs — cyclists on the Cross Seminole Trail are also not stopping when he’s trying to pull onto Aloma Avenue from Shale Court.

    “As you see right there, there’s a stop sign. On the other side right there, there’s a stop sign,” Hill said. “They’re supposed to stop right here before they go through here, but they don’t.”

    Spectrum News reached out to the Florida Department of Transportation about the issue.

    FDOT spokesperson Tim Freed said the agency is planning to start a corridor study of Aloma Avenue, also known as State Road 426, from Howell Branch Road to Dean Road in the coming weeks.

    The study will look at improving safety and traffic efficiency along the roadway, including at Shale Court and the Cross Seminole Trail.

    “Somebody’s going to get killed, and when they get killed, somebody’s gonna be screaming bloody murder, and I’ll be like, ‘Hold on, time out. You didn’t listen to me when I told you. You have a problem,’” Hill said.

    Until something is done, Hill said he plans to use his online radio program, which he does from the patio of his house, to advocate for safety improvements.

    Do you have a traffic trouble spot? Or maybe a solution to a road-related problem? Tell us about it here.

    Jerry Hume

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  • Why won’t Orange County open a connection road to Lake County?

    LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A single barrier is all that prevents Lake County drivers from cutting their commutes to Walt Disney World in half.

    What You Need To Know

    • Deborah Running says her drive to Disney from her Lake County home would be cut in half if she were able to access Flemings Road

    • Orange County placed a barrier to block Sawgrass Bay Boulevard from Flemings Road

    • Orange County says they’re waiting for a developer to make Flemings Road a four-lane road to handle the anticipated traffic

    • The road should be completed by Nov. 30, 2026, per Orange County


    Deborah Running says if Sawgrass Bay Boulevard in Lake County were open to Flemings Road in Orange County, it would cut down on drive times considerably.

    Right now she has to take US-27 to US-192 and then up to Avalon Road to access Western Way and the back entrance to Disney World.

    “That would take 35 minutes, maybe 40-45,” Running explained. “If I went this way it would take about 15 to get to the same spot.”

    This way is the end of Sawgrass Bay Boulevard where a newly constructed cul-de-sac from Lake County is located.

    Off the cul-de-sac is a road with a barrier. On the other side of the barrier is Flemings Road, which provides access to Western Way and Disney.

    “It does not make sense. It’s a road that exists. It connects Lake County to Orange County, and it could cut people’s drive times in half,” said Running.

    Orange County put up the barrier, preventing drivers from traveling between the two counties.

    A year ago we told you what drivers would do: go off-road to cut through to Disney.

    While not as commonplace now, people will still do it to cut their drive time in half.

    “It could definitely be connected if Orange County would just agree to do it,” said Running.

    Orange County does plan to remove the barrier, but city leaders are waiting for a developer to make Flemings Road a four-lane road that can handle the anticipated traffic.

    We obtained a study for Orange County that found if no truck traffic was allowed, Flemings Road could handle the local traffic from Lake County for the next 10 years.

    But Orange County’s manager of the transportation planning division said opening the road during construction would cost more, and could take longer to construct.

    Orange County recently updated its estimated construction completion forecast from Jan. 1, 2026, to Nov. 30, 2026, another setback for Running.

    “Disappointed and a little angry,” said Running.

    Running is part of a group, Connect 2025, hoping to keep Orange County’s promise to open the road up to Lake County.

    The group Connect 2025 says the biggest people to benefit from the connection are the service workers living in Lake County, but working at Disney and the attractions area.

    They say that opening the connection would have economic and environmental benefits.

    If you’ve got a traffic trouble spot, please fill out the form here.

    Jerry Hume

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  • NCDOT to begin permanent repair projects in Chimney Rock, Bat Cave

    CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — Construction to rebuild roads and bridges is ongoing in western North Carolina nearly a year after Helene. 

    The North Carolina Department of Transportation gave Spectrum News 1 a tour of a two and a half mile stretch of Chimney Rock and Bat Cave Tuesday to view the destruction and work to rebuild the region’s vital infrastructure.

    What You Need To Know

    • Helene washed out a portion of U.S. 74, which connects Chimney Rock to Bat Cave

    • A temporary road has been opened for local traffic

    • NCDOT plans to begin construction on a permanent road later this year

    • The project is estimated to cost $250 million


    Helene washed out a portion of U.S. 74, which connects Chimney Rock to Bat Cave, sending pieces of asphalt into the river below. The only way engineers could assess the damage was to hike there by foot.

    “It was very overwhelming seeing the challenge and devastation that was here,” Nathan Moneyham, the division construction engineer for NCDOT Division 13, said. “I think one of the things was that we knew we could do it. I think the question was how long it would take.”

    NCDOT quickly began building a temporary road in the middle of the riverbed below U.S. 74. The road came to life as engineers used rail cars as bridges. The temporary road opened in May.

    “That can serve this community so folks can go to the grocery store, go to doctor’s appointments and get back to some sense of normalcy as they start to rebuild,” Moneyham said.

    Engineers are now designing a permanent road to be built where U.S. 74 once stood. Construction is expected to begin later this year and be completed by 2028. The project is estimated to cost $250 million.

    In Bat Cave, NCDOT plans to replace a bridge that connects U.S. 64 and U.S. 74. Construction is expected to begin later this year and be completed in 2027. 

    Moneyham is hopeful this work will bring a sense of normalcy back to the region. 

    “We’ve got this temporary road established a lot faster than anybody expected,” Moneyham said. “A lot of the businesses in the [Chimney Rock] village are starting to open. The state park opened back in June. It’s really a big milestone and accomplishment, and really needed for the people that live and have businesses here.”

    Chloe Salsameda

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  • Names of victims in fatal tour bus crash on Thruway released

    The investigation continues into Friday’s deadly tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway outside Pembroke in Genesee County. There were 54 people on board at the time of the crash.

    What You Need To Know

    • The investigation continues into Friday’s deadly tour bus crash on the New York State Thruway outside Pembroke in Genesee County

    • There were 54 people on board at the time of the crash

    • Five people were killed, and the victims were identified by authorities as Shankar Kumar Jha, 65, of Madhu Bani, India; Pinki Changrani, 60, of East Brunswick, New Jersey; Xie Hongzhuo, 22, of Beijing, China; Zhang Xiaolan, 55; and Jian Mingli, 56, both from Jersey City, New Jersey

    • Dozens more were injured

    Five people were killed, and the victims were identified by authorities as Shankar Kumar Jha, 65, of Madhu Bani, India; Pinki Changrani, 60, of East Brunswick, New Jersey; Xie Hongzhuo, 22, of Beijing, China; Zhang Xiaolan, 55; and Jian Mingli, 56, both from Jersey City, New Jersey. Dozens more were injured.

    According to New York State Police, the bus involved in the crash was towed to the state police headquarters in Batavia Friday night.

    The cause of the collision was still under investigation as of Saturday afternoon. However, the driver –– Bin Shao, 55 of Flushing, New York –– had no signs of impairment, and the tour bus had no mechanical failure. Police said the bus drove into a median before overcorrecting, rolling over and crashing into a ditch. 

    State Police Maj. Andre Ray said Friday evening that the driver had been distracted, but didn’t elaborate.

    Police said the bus was heading to New York City after a trip to the American side of Niagara Falls.

    “It’s a full-size tour bus. Heavy amount of damage. It did roll. Most people, I’m assuming, on the bus did not have a seatbelt on. That is the reason we had so many ejected people on this bus. Like I said, this bus is extremely damaged,” said Trooper James O’Callaghan, a New York State Police Troop A public information officer. “This bus was going full speed. It did not hit any other vehicle. It basically lost control from the median on.”

    A total of 21 patients were transported to ECMC hospital after the crash. Seven were discharged Friday, six remained hospitalized in stable condition, five were in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit in stable condition and another three were in the Observation Unit in stable condition. Two patients were scheduled for discharge Saturday.,

    In a statement, Kaleida Health said that they received a total of 20 patients to Buffalo General Medical Center (four adults: all were in good condition with one since discharged), Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital (11 adults, two children: 10 in good condition and three in fair condition) and Oishei Children’s Hospital (three children total: two in good condition and one in serious condition).

    The University of Rochester Medical Center said that six patients were at their facility. Three were transported via air ambulance and another three by ground ambulance. Two were being treated for critical injuries and four were medically stable, including one pediatric patient. 

    An investigation from the National Transportation Safety Board, in coordination with New York State Police and the state Department of Transportation Motor Carrier Compliance Bureau, was ongoing.

    Those who may have witnessed the crash or have dash cam footage were asked to contact New York State Police at SP Batavia at (585) 344-6200.

    Adriana Loh

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  • First week back in school leads to hundreds of citations in school zones

    ORLANDO, Fla. — There were nearly 700 traffic stops in school zones across Orange County during the first week of school. 

    The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said that out of those stops, deputies handed out about 250 citations for speeding, for which fines are double.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 250 drivers were cited for speeding in Orange County school zones the first week of school

    • All of those fines are doubled in a school zone

    • Deputies caught drivers going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit in a school zone


    In a video posted by the sheriff’s office, one deputy even caught a driver going upwards of 40 mph over the speed limit

    “It is alarming that a lot of people are not following the law around schools, around where children are,” said Justin Battle, a dad in Orange County.

    Drivers from last week who were cited now have to pay hundreds of dollars, which is an expensive reminder to slow down in a school zone.

    Dozens of other Orange County drivers were let go with a warning, and that’s just one week.

    “It is wild,” said Katilin Page, an Orange County mom.

    Kaitlin walks home with her son Lucas every day.

    “He loves the school. He told me he almost likes it better than the weekend,” she said.

    Lucas loves school, but he also loves the crossing guard.

    The crossing guard keeps a close eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

    “Sometimes people aren’t paying attention, and he will blow his whistle multiple times, so we feel very safe with him guiding us through the crosswalk,” Kaitlin said.

    Kaitlin said she would love to see flashing lights and even more signage near Hillcrest Elementary to remind drivers, kids are here. 

    A spokesperson for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office says they do increase patrols in school zones now that school is back in session and the SROs who are already there, help keep an eye on speeders and distracted drivers.

    Sarah Winkelmann

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  • Polk County pauses school bus camera program; changes underway

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County’s school bus camera program is on hold as district leaders work to make changes.

    What You Need To Know

    • Officials say nearly 13,000 violations have been issued since the Safe Stop initiative started. But some drivers claim many of those tickets were unfair

    • Cleo Davis said he tried to appeal the citation he received, but there were no instructions on how to do so, despite state law requiring them to be included

    • BELOW: Statement from Polk County Public Schools


    The Safe Stop initiative officially launched in August of last year. Since then, officials say nearly 13,000 violations have been issued. But some drivers, like resident Cleo Davis, claim many of those tickets were unfair.

    Davis says he was driving home from work in November when he saw a school bus stop at the railroad tracks on the opposite side of the road near Recker Parkway. Not thinking much of it, he said he kept driving, since buses are required to stop before crossing.

    “Common sense just said to me… you know, me thinking that it’s no way that they’re letting children off at that location, so that’s why I proceeded to go forward,” Davis said.

    To his surprise, he received a $225 notice of violation in the mail weeks later. The violation was for failing to stop for a school bus with its stop signal deployed, and it included photos of the incident. But Davis felt he did nothing wrong, saying there were no children being picked up or dropped off.

    He said he tried to appeal the citation, but there were no instructions on how to do so, despite state law requiring them to be included.

    “I got the statuette and everything, and it clearly says that the violation is supposed to have that, but it doesn’t exist. Now where it does exist is once you get the uniform citation,” he said.

    Up until recently, drivers in Polk County who were fined for passing a stopped school bus couldn’t appeal the violation until 30 days later — when it automatically became a $329 uniform citation.

    Thanks to a new law that went into effect July 1, drivers now have the right to immediately contest a violation.

    In a statement, Polk County Public Schools said:

    “Polk County Public Schools and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office will continue to follow state law regarding the use of our Safe Stop program. At this time, we are working with local authorities to develop and implement an appeal process for motorists who receive a violation from our school bus cameras. Beginning July 1, no violations will be issued until the local appeal process is in place.” 

    However, Davis says an appeal process should have been in place from the start. Now, he’s calling on the county to issue reimbursements.

    “I want my money back. I want my money back,” he said. “I, at least, would like to be reimbursed for the cost. Although I know they can’t reimburse me for the time it took going down there, but the least they can do is reimburse the money for the citation.”

    The school district didn’t mention the possibility of reimbursement. However, it reiterated:

    “The PCPS Safe Stop program has always complied with state law, and student safety remains our top priority.”

    Alexis Jones

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  • Crews remove fallen tree from I-75 South in Pasco

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Pasco County

    UPDATED 7:33 PM ET Jul. 14, 2025
    PUBLISHED 6:58 PM ET Jul. 14, 2025
    PUBLISHED 6:58 PM EDT Jul. 14, 2025

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • FDOT hosts workshop to discuss SunRail extension to Polk County

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — As the Sunshine State continues to grow, so does demand for public transportation.

    The SunRail commuter rail service could make its way into Polk County sooner rather than later.

    The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a special workshop to discuss what a possible extension would mean for local leaders and residents in Haines City.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT staff host a special workshop to discuss plans to extend SunRail commuter service to Polk County

    • Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of over 1.2 million people by 2050

    • FDOT says an extension of the commuter service is necessary “to support this growth”

    • The 16-mile extension would extend service to Haines City, with stations in the Loughman and Davenport areas
    • A Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) study is currently underway to assess costs, benefits and environmental factors


    Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of nearly 1.2 million people by 2050.

    According to FDOT, more than half of this growth is projected to take place in the northeastern portion of the county.

    To account for this growth, it’s seeking to expand the SunRail commuter service to Haines City, with two additional stations in Loughman and Davenport.

    FDOT staff discussed what it calls Transit Oriented Development (TOD) concepts with elected officials and local planners.

    This concept focuses on a variety of factors, including “designing areas that are within a quarter- to half-mile of transit stations to promote transit use” and how it could benefit those who choose to walk or bike.

    “For communities investing in transit like SunRail, growth must align with TOD principles to maximize ridership,” says FDOT Communications Specialist Patricia Pichette.

    Factors like the design of streets, development, parking, housing, and jobs within walking distance of stations strongly influence the use of public transit like SunRail, according to FDOT.

    The workshop also provided the public an opportunity to engage in an open discussion with FDOT staff and ask questions.

    Right now, SunRail operates over 61 miles, with 17 stations connecting the Greater Orlando region, from Volusia County down to Osceola County.

    Some of those service areas include DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee and Poinciana.

    Poinciana is currently the southernmost point of the station.

    A first public meeting to discuss the SunRail extension Project Development and Environmental Study (PD&E) is scheduled for late September.

    The study, which is still in its early stages, will look at expansion benefits, environmental factors, preliminary conceptual costs and funding strategies.

    It will also serve as a way for FDOT staff to examine economic development opportunities and ways by which it could help improve mobility.

    Sasha Teman

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  • May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

    TAMPA, Fla. — As temperatures warm, more motorcycle riders are hitting the road. 

    That’s why May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

    Spectrum News visited the Rider Academy at Harley Davidson in Brandon this week as a class of students were learning skills and working toward their motorcycle endorsements.

    What You Need To Know

    • May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

    • Riding Academy Manager Tom Holden says slow maneuver and tight quarter skills are a big focus for riders, along with wearing safe gear

    • The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted a study on motorcycle accidents in Florida

    Riding Academy Manager Tom Holden says slow maneuver and tight quarter skills are a big focus for riders learning to handle a motorcycle for the very first time.

    “Part of the things we teach here is in terms of being a smart thinking, smart motorcycle rider is paying attention to what is going on around you,” Holden said. “So you take that reaction time around you and you are turning it into a decision time. There is a reaction involved here, but we teach you about giving yourself some space, a little bit of a buffer so you can make those decisions.”

    Just as important as riding skills is the gear a motorcyclist chooses to wear.  

    Holden recommends bright colored clothing that is resistance to rips and tears in an accident, as well as boots that cover the ankles and a helmet.

    “You’ve got to be wearing a helmet here,” he said. “You smack your head on the ground here, you got some major problems here. Helmets are very important. Now the variation is, what happens when it is hot out? Half-helmets aren’t a bad deal, they are fine. As long as they are DOT approved, you are putting some protection on your head. Obviously those full-face helmets or those modular helmets. That’s fine if you are comfortable with that.”

    The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted a study after Florida changed it helmet law in 2000.

    It found that in 1,000 accidents, the number of fatalities increased from 30 to 38, and it says those riders that don’t wear a helmet are 25% more likely to die in an accident.

    Jason Lanning

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  • Bartow set to launch red-light camera program this month

    BARTOW, Fla. — Starting this month, 16 red-light cameras will be up and running across the city of Bartow.


    What You Need To Know

    • Bartow will activate 16 red-light cameras at eight major intersections on April 21 
    • City officials and local business owners, like Martha Stephens, support the program, citing frequent accidents and dangerous driving behavior

    • While some residents support the initiative, others are pushing back, calling the cameras excessive and inaccurate


    The cameras, operated by Verra Mobility, will be placed at the following eight intersections:

    • Wilson Ave. at Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
    • W. Main St. / SR 60 at Crown Ave.
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 / US 98 at Van Fleet Ave. / US 98
    • Broadway Ave. / US 98 at E. Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Main St.
    • S. Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at W. Wabash St.
    • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
    • S. Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at E. Georgia St.

    City leaders plan to launch the program Monday, April 21. Officials released video showing vehicles, including semi-trucks, speeding through red lights at several of the main intersections. Though the footage was recorded during a traffic study last year, Martha Stephens, who owns a food truck on State Road 60, says it’s a perfect example of what can happen on the road.

    “The traffic is really crazy at times. People run the red lights and even though we have the arrows, they still run them,” she said.

    Since opening Hy-Tech Cuisine last March, Stephens says she’s learned of several car accidents nearby. She says one fatal incident involved her new hire, who was struck by a driver while riding her bike on East Van Fleet Drive.

    “He said he didn’t see her. You know, it’s once again running the lights. Running the lights,” Stephens said.

    This is why she says she couldn’t be more relieved that the city of Bartow is launching its red-light camera program. While others feel the same, some people took to Facebook to share their disappointment, saying the cameras are excessive and often inaccurate. One resident even created a petition in hopes of stopping the program.

    However, Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker stands behind it.

    “They work,” he said. “We’re just asking people to obey the law. It’s a force multiplier for us as far as I can’t have my officer at every intersection all the time. Traffic is a big issue in Bartow and so we’re trying to make it safer for everyone.”

    Walker says roughly 2.2 million drivers make their way through the city every year, mainly because of the major highways. The cameras are intended to help reduce the number of angle crashes at each intersection.

    Officers will review the footage daily to check for violations. Walker says each violation will result in a fine of up to $158, with $75 going to the city.

    “Probably will be used for infrastructure improvement. You know, we have roads that need to be improved so that’s where I see it probably going,” he said.

    As for Stephens, she says she’s looking forward to the sense of peace the cameras will bring to the community. In the meantime, she has this message for drivers:

    “Slow down. Take your time. We all want to live. There’s no place you need to be that that’s urgent and if it is, leave a few minutes earlier,” she said.

    The red-light cameras will go live on April 21. Then, notices of violations will be sent out starting May 21.

    Alexis Jones

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