ReportWire

Tag: traffic and transit

  • May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

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    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.

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    Jason Lanning

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

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    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.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • FDOT studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Florida Department of Transportation is now studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg.

    Called the I-175 Action Plan, FDOT is looking at ways to enhance the safety and connectivity around the small interstate that connects I-275 and 4th Street.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT is now studying plans to redesign I-175 in St. Petersburg

    • The I-175 Action Plan will look at ways to enhance the safety and connectivity around the small interstate that connects I-275 and 4th Street

    • Neighborhood coalition Reimagine I-175 would like to see the interstate removed and replaced with a boulevard to reconnect the city

    • The findings are expected to be completed next April  

    That’s welcome news to Justin Cournoyer, co-founder of Reimagine I-175. It’s a coalition of neighbors who’d like to see the interstate removed and replaced with a boulevard to reconnect the city.

    “We see it as the Berlin Wall of St. Pete,” Cournoyer said. “It’s literally just a wall of concrete and earth. For people like me living in Campbell Park, you have 7 blocks of this where you can’t get across.”

    I-175 first opened in April 1980 to connect I-275 and 4th Street, but it effectively split the city and displaced neighborhoods.

    45 years later, Cournoyer says not enough traffic uses it.

    “It acts like a scar across the city. The permeability under the highway is not there. The connectivity is not there. It kind of separates our city into north and south St. Pete,” Cournoyer said.

    (Spectrum News)

    The only way across the interstate now is a pedestrian bridge, which Cournoyer says just takes people out of their way.

    “It’s kind of an eyesore. It’s covered in chain link. Graffiti most of the time. A lot of trash up here. It’s a neglected part of our city,” Cournoyer said.

    These are all reasons a 2022 City of St. Petersburg mobility study recommended a reconfiguration of the interstate.

    The study found that while I-175 is useful for emergency vehicles and connecting attractions, it comes at a cost to adjacent neighborhoods, especially has drivers go at high speeds.

    Since the road is managed by FDOT, the agency is now building on that study to look at what the future of I-175 could be.

    That comes as plans for a new ballpark at the Tropicana Field site fell apart in March. 

    “With or without a ballpark, I think removing 175 and replacing it with a boulevard is going to do wonders and be a huge positive impact on communities, especially disenfranchised communities in the south side,” Cournoyer said.

    The I-175 Action Plan study started in January. The findings are expected to be completed next April.

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    Tim Wronka

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  • Innovative traffic tech now monitors some Pasco roads

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A new form of technology is being used by Pasco County Transportation engineers to better gauge traffic volumes.

    What You Need To Know

    • New technology is being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization to better gauge traffic volumes on busy roads

    • It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer

    • Intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor are being monitored, helping hone in on near misses

    • The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians with data used to count how many pass through an intersection


    It’s also helping hone in on near misses on some key roads, leading the way to safer roadways.

    At a busy intersection on U.S. 19 stands a new cutting-edge camera looking down on traffic below.

    “It’s making our intersections safer for our citizens to cross,” said Tania Gorman, executive director of the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

    A camera looks down on an intersection on U.S. 19. (Spectrum News)

    It’s part of a new grant with Marlin Engineering, monitoring traffic so that engineers and planners can learn how to make roads safer.

    “We are now entering into a micromobility area looking at behavior of those that are driving at our most dangerous intersections,” said Gorman.

    Right now, the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization is monitoring intersections along the U.S. 19 corridor.

    A view from one of Pasco County’s traffic volume monitoring cameras. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    “We’ve actually just started monitoring over the last month,” Gorman said. “We’ve just taken down the data for collection results. So we’ll get that data and review it and that will give us more insight to the behaviors going on at that intersection.”

    The county is also using AI to distinguish between scooters, e-bikes and pedestrians, using different colors to identify them. That data can then be used to count how many pass through that intersection.

    “There’s darting across the street and you’re just like, ‘Oh man, I wish I knew what happened’ because in the past, that’s what we’d say,” said Gorman. “A lot of our reports come from the on-scene officer or highway patrol or whoever is on scene. Now we’re able to see the crash in real time and see what exactly transpired in that moment.”

    AI technology being used by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization can distinguish between different modes of mobility. (Courtesy: Pasco County MPO)

    Right now, the tech is being used at three different intersections, including U.S. 19 and Sea Ranch Drive. If successful, more intersections throughout the county may see the cameras.

    “That way we can have a comprehensive, cooperative and collaborative process of planning on how we’re going to identify and address these intersections that have these issues with safety concerns,” said Gorman.

    It’s all paving the way for safer roads throughout the county.

    Gorman says the next step will be to have a micromobility plan, allowing the county to expand where cameras are placed.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • 190-space parking garage in the works for downtown Dunedin

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    DUNEDIN, Fla. — The city of Dunedin is a well-known tourist destination that draws more than 1.8 million visitors, and leaders are now considering a new parking garage that would provide more than 190 parking spaces.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dunedin city leaders are considering a new parking garage with more than 190 parking spaces in downtown

    • The project could cost as much as $10 million

    • Work could start around September and be completed in December 2026 if approved

    The city chose a site at Scotland Street and Douglas Avenue — close to Main Street.

    Some business owners like Soozy Naylor O’Donnell love the idea of more parking.

    “I think it’s absolutely brilliant,” he said. “We were down in Clearwater Beach for 28 years and they desperately needed parking, and I think doing it now as the city is growing … is only going to help all of us small businesses.”

    But not everyone supports the project.

    City Commissioner Jeff Gow says he would like the city to look at alternative modes of transportation to help people get around.

    “We have all of this car traffic because we do not offer any alternative,” Gow said. “They have come by car.”

    The project is estimated to cost around $10 million.

    While plans are still in the preliminary phase, officials say construction could start in September — with an estimated completion date of December 2026.

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    Jeff Van Sant

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  • Howard Frankland Bridge original span will be demolished

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The original span of the Howard Frankland Bridge, which opened in 1960, will be demolished later this year or early next year after the new $865 million span opened on Tuesday, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.

    What You Need To Know

    • The original span cost $16 million and opened in 1960

    • A lack of safety features earned it the nickname “Howard Frankenstein Bridge” 

    • Traffic from the old bridge will be moved to a newer span in the summer 

    • The original span will be demolished late this year or early next year


    The original span only cost $16 million and was riddled with problems when it first opened leading to the nickname the “Howard Frankenstein Bridge,” according to historian Rodney Kite-Powell, Tampa Bay History Center.

    “Very dangerous bridge, a lot of accidents, a lot of fatalities and then it had a lot of just gridlock,” he said. “A lot of traffic that just kind of went to a standstill, particularly when even the most minor accident.”

    The bridge was named after the man who proposed building it, Tampa businessesman Howard Frankland. Kite-Powell said Frankland’s descendants should be proud of what has become of the bridge.

    “It’d be interesting to talk to the Frankland family with so many safety improvements and with this new span,” he said. “I hope that they can be proud that this bridge is named for Howard Frankland again.” 

    Safety improvements were added to the original bridge in 1962. Kite Powell said the original span was an important connection for the middle of Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Feather Sound and the Westshore area sprang up on both sides.

    “This middle span was really critical,” he said. “It really fostered a whole lot of growth, bringing a lot more cars, a lot more people, and then a lot more business.” 

    In the 1990s, the old bridge was closed for a widening project due to increasing traffic. The historian said the area’s forefathers knew cars were going to be a popular mode of transportation.

    “So the automobile, as they predicted, was going to be king, and it absolutely is,” he said. “But I don’t think they could have ever anticipated the volume that we see today.” 

    The original span has lasted 65 years. The new span is expected to last the next 100 years. Traffic on the old bridge will be moved to another span this summer.

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    Josh Rojas

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  • Crystal River business reacts as US-19 widening project nears completion

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    CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — A popular roadway in Citrus County is getting a major facelift.

    What You Need To Know

    • The widening of US-19 near Crystal River is entering its final stages, going from two travel lanes to three

    • The project stretches a little more than 4.5-miles, which should help, as city officials say, during severe weather events
    • It’s a major project that will have big implications for Crystal River and local businesses
    • Two more projects will begin after this one finishes, with the state repaving a 1.2-mile stretch from south of northeast First Terrace to south of Snug Harbor Road


    The widening of US-19 is entering its final stages, going from two travel lanes to three. It’s a major project that will have big implications for Crystal River and local businesses.

    Just a stone’s throw from the roadway, Ryan Delarco arranges a few bicycles outside his shop Sparky’s Green Rides.

    “It’s changed a lot,” says Delarco.

    Delarco has had the shop since 2013. He’s experienced it all, from hurricanes and tornadoes to the most recent widening of US-19.

    “Hopefully, when everything’s done, it causes economic growth and better traffic flow through here.”

    The project, Delarco said, has its pros and cons. With the road running right outside his shop, construction drew away potential customers. But with road work now dwindling down, better access to trails is just around the corner.

    “We’re going to be connecting the trails for the bicycles, the pedestrians and walkways and miscellaneous things to get us around even more conveniently than we can now,” said Delarco.

    US-19’s widening project stretches a little more than 4.5-miles. Improving from two travel lanes to three. Which should help, as city manager Audra Curts says, during severe weather events.

    “Those types of things and those events where our traffic is higher than normal, it’ll make it flow so much better as folks are heading north if they ever have to evacuate during another disaster,” said Curts.

    And with businesses flanking either side of the major roadway, business owners, like Delarco, are excited to see what new business may come with the improved road.

    “When it’s completed and finished, I think the three lanes will help get the seniors be able to turn off the highway easier with the extra lane,” Delarco said. “I mean, three lanes is a big difference from two, for sure.”

    Two more US-19 projects will begin after this one finishes. The state will begin repaving the 1.2-mile stretch from south of northeast First Terrace to south of Snug Harbor Road. The project will also include pedestrian improvements with new crossing buttons.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Business owner concerned about project on U.S. 98 in Dade City

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    DADE CITY, Fla. — Construction continues on a section of U.S. 98 in Pasco County called the Dade City Bypass to widen the road from two lanes to four.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT is widening the Dade City Bypass (U.S. 98) from two lanes to four

    • The owner of a nearby business says he is concerned about how construction has affected customers

    • Work on the road is expected to be finished by the fall of 2026


    But a nearby business owner has concerns about what will change there.

    When folks visit Ken Woodard’s shop, the Quilted Twins, it’s for one reason.

    “This is people’s love,” Woodard said. “They’re making things with their hands for people that they love.”

    Over the past seven years, Woodard has built the business into a destination for those into quilting and in need of fabric.

    “We have some very loyal customers,” he said. “Our typical customer drives an hour to get here. But then when they get to Dade City and hit the construction, they’re a little bit frustrated when they walk in the store.”

    That construction he is talking about is on the Dade City Bypass east of downtown that started in March 2023.

    The Florida Department of Transportation is widening the road from two lanes to four between Seventh Street North and Seventh Street South to account for growth in the area.

    That’s something Woodard never thought he would see in Dade City.

    “When I got here 35-37 years ago, they were sand roads,” he said. “Now they’re two lanes and talking about four lanes. Traffic congestion has just boomed.”

    But the roadwork has caused some issues for his customers finding the shop due to road blocks and detours.

    Woodard also has concerns about the two roundabouts that will be added. One will be at Seventh Street South and the other will be on Old Lakeland Highway.

    Site of future roundabout on Old Lakeland Highway. (Courtesy of FDOT)

    “Folks in those lanes are going to be focusing on not crashing into somebody else,” Woodard said.

    According to the project website, the road is expected to be done in the fall of 2026. In the meantime, southbound traffic on U.S. 98 is detoured through downtown Dade City.

    Woodard’s hope is that when the project is finished, the final result is a positive for his business and his customers.

    “I want them to have confidence in coming into the store and enjoying their experience,” he said.

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    Tim Wronka

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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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  • Report analyzes electric vehicle sales nationwide and by state

    Report analyzes electric vehicle sales nationwide and by state

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    Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a more and more common sight on the road these days, and they’re not just found in Silicon Valley anymore.

    What You Need To Know

    • Electric vehicles account for a bit more than 9% of new light-duty vehicle sales for the second quarter of 2024

    • That’s according to a press release on an analysis from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation

    • In Ohio, it’s closer to just about 5%

    • Ohio has a ratio of 21 EVs to public chargers, better than the national ratio

    According to a press release on an analysis from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation—looking at the second quarter in 2024—they found that EVs accounted more than 9% of new light-duty vehicle sales, up slightly from the same quarter last year.

    Ohio is a bit behind the national percentage, with EVs accounting for just more than 5% of new sales, with a total of 6,718 EVs sold. In the same quarter last year, they accounted for just more than 4% of sales.

     

    According to the Electric Vehicle Quarterly Report, Ohio was ranked 30th in 2024 EV market share through the second quarter, at 4.70%. It likely comes as no surprise that California ranked first with 25.78% market share. North Dakota came in last place with 1.62%.

    Ohio ranked better when it come to the ratio of EVs to public chargers, coming in at 21. According to the release, Ohio had a total of 80,710 EVs out on the road, with 3,867 public chargers to keep them going, leading to the ratio of 21 EVs to each charger.

    That’s better than the national ratio, with 5.1 million EVs in the country and 177,330 public chargers. That’s a ratio of 29 EVs to each charger.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Two more Intel-related superl oads to traverse Ohio this week

    Two more Intel-related superl oads to traverse Ohio this week

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Two more Intel-related super loads are traveling from Adams County to Licking County this week, but they will be much smaller than the massive loads we saw this summer headed to the $20 billion chip manufacturing site.

    What You Need To Know

    • Two more Intel-related super loads are traveling from Adams County to Licking County this week

    • They will be much smaller than the massive loads we saw this summer headed to the $20 billion chip manufacturing site

    • ODOT Press Secretary Matt Bruning said the transport of these materials is not a cost incurred by ODOT but rather Intel and the haulers

    • Bruning said other companies have approached them asking if they can also help them move large materials as well

    The first of these super loads, coming in at 258,000 pounds and more than 16 feet tall, leaves Friday. The second, which weighs 132,000 pounds and is more than 17 feet tall, leaves on Saturday.

    ODOT Press Secretary Matt Bruning said recent super loads and those still ahead are “dramatically smaller” than those moved this summer. The traffic impacts, he said, have been almost nothing.

    “There will be many more from here through next year… but we are not anticipating any other huge loads like we saw this summer,” he said. “There may be a couple more that will be a little more impactful to traffic. We’ll certainly do what we did with the others and put out an advance notice of that.”

    You can see the exact route details of loads 25 and 26 here.


    (Courtesy JobsOhio)

    As far as cost, Bruning said the transport of these materials is not a cost incurred by ODOT. The hauler purchases the permit, he said, and then Intel pays them to bring the equipment in.

    He said the only cost for taxpayers is if they use an ODOT escort vehicle, they pay that employee. But it’s not really an additional cost, as that employee would be being paid regardless, just for another task, without the super load.

    He said even if the load has a state trooper escort, that’s paid by the haulers.

    A massive truck is hauling Intel equipment for its construction project across Ohio. (Photo Courtesy Ohio Department of Transportation)

    When it comes to the logistical challenges of plotting the routes for these super loads, especially the 900,000 pound plus ones earlier this summer, height, weight, width and traffic are the key factors.

    They had to make sure bridges could support the weight, that roads were wide enough to accommodate large loads, that they timed around traffic-heavy events and avoided routes which would take them under too-short bridges, Bruning said.

    Those challenges even led to some minor, yet permanent, changes some eagle-eyed drivers may notice.

    There were a few overhead signs in Chillicothe and Portsmouth that were permanently raised. While ODOT paid for those, he said those changes are beneficial moving forward, not just for Intel but for others wanting to move massive loads who now have a higher height clearance on that route.

    “So that’s an advantage, certainly, to Ohio’s economy,” Bruning said.

    A massive truck is hauling Intel equipment for its construction project across Ohio.

    A massive truck is hauling Intel equipment for its construction project across Ohio. (Photo Courtesy Ohio Department of Transportation)

    They also installed swivel arms to some traffic signals in Piketon and Pickerington, paid for by the haulers. This allows the signal to just pivot, rather than needing to be raised. Bruning said it made the operation much easier and quicker.

    It’s something they can benefit from in the future, if anyone else decides they need to move large items through this portion of the state.

    Bruning said other companies have approached them asking if they can help them move large materials as well.

    “It has definitely positioned Ohio, economically, in a good spot that other companies are looking to move here because they realize that Ohio can make and move things,” he said.

    Spectrum News 1 anchor and reporter Taylor Bruck contributed to this report.

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    Cody Thompson

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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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  • HELENE: Monitor real-time traffic conditions in Tampa Bay due to Helene

    HELENE: Monitor real-time traffic conditions in Tampa Bay due to Helene

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Helene is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rains and storm surge to the Tampa Bay area. Evacuation orders have been given ahead of the storm.

    Some roads and bridges will start to see increased traffic due to evacuations. Our Real-Time Traffic Map will help you check the roads before you head out and before you return home.

    Use our Real-Time Traffic Map below to check on the status of the roads near you.

    JUST IN: Following guidance from the U.S. Coast Guard, Pinellas County plans to lock its three movable bridges in the closed position at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, in advance of Hurricane Helene. The Dunedin Causeway bridges, Beckett Bridge in Tarpon Springs and Park Boulevard Bridge in Seminole will remain open to vehicle traffic, but will not open for boat traffic until conditions are clear following the storm.

    Owners of high clearance boats that need to move them to a more secure location before the storm should do so before the bridges close tonight.

    The Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Department of Transportation will close the Sunshine Skyway bridge when wind speeds reach about 45 mph. The Gandy Bridge, Howard Frankland Bridge and/or Courtney Campbell Causeway will be closed if wave action makes travel unsafe.

    JUST IN: The Florida Division of Emergency Management has partnered to provide free rides to state-approved shelters (up to $35 rides) in counties under a state of emergency for Helene. Open the Uber app, tap Account and Wallet, and add promo code HELENERELIEF

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    Spectrum News Staff

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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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