(TBARTA) Re: Letter of Support for the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority (TBARTA) Dear Governor DeSantis,
As Tampa Bay continues to expand, existing transportation infrastructure is reaching capacity. Congestion and a lack of connectivity between counties create silos that restrict the free movement of individuals and currency. Deficient systems have a high opportunity cost and lower quality of life.
The Tampa Bay business community offers commitment and support to the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority (TBARTA), which works to advance regional transportation needs in Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, and Pinellas counties. TBARTA supports 3,696,184 people across the five counties: representing 3,257 square miles, 140,000 businesses, and nearly 1.5-million jobs. Collaboration between the business community, the Florida Department of Transportation, and the Executive Office of the Governor is necessary to create sustainable funding for ongoing operations.
TBARTA serves as the primary mechanism for regional transit planning and operations and a unifying body for collaboration. There is a clear regional consensus from business leaders that an appropriation from the 2022-2023 General Appropriations Act will propel TBARTA’s work forward, improving connectivity within county boundaries and across the region.
Of the $1,375,000 requested, one million dollars will support TD Tampa Bay, enhancing accessibility for the transportation disadvantaged via a multi-modal plan. The remaining budget supports operations for TBARTA, allowing the organization to continue advancing transportation plans and practices.
TBARTA’s role in planning and implementing transportation options serves the market, rather than political jurisdictions, magnifying its capacity to build critical infrastructure for regional success. As such, Tampa Bay’s business community supports the appropriation and asks for your favorable review.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
Bemetra Simmons
President and CEO Tampa Bay Partnership
Chad Loar
Regional President – West and Central FL, PNC Bank Chair | Tampa Bay Partnership
Bob Rohrlack, DBA
President and CEO, Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce
Craig Richard
President and CEO, Tampa Bay Economic Development Council
Michael Maurino
Executive Director, Westshore Alliance
Chris Steinocher
President and CEO, St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce
Jason Mathis
President and CEO, St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership
Lynda Remund
President and CEO, Tampa Downtown Partnership
Bill Cronin
President and CEO, Pasco Economic Development Council
Dr. Cynthia Johnson, EDFP
Director, Pinellas County Economic Development
Brian Auld
President, Tampa Bay Rays, Secretary/Treasurer | Tampa Bay Partnership