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State Support Of TBARTA Crucial To Mission

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By SHELTON QUARLES

The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 22, 2008

Updated: 05/22/2008 01:11 am

During the 2007 legislative session, the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority was created.

However, at that time, TBARTA did not receive any funding.

This year's Legislature included a $2 million non-recurring appropriation in the state budget for TBARTA, and this much-needed funding is currently waiting for Gov. Charlie Crist's signature.

As chairman of the TBARTA board of directors, I ask the governor to continue his support of TBARTA with the funds appropriated by the Legislature.

Many people recognize the progress we have made in forging a new kind of regional responsibility and regional relationships with our partners - within a very short 10 months. These partnerships that we've established need to continue because TBARTA needs their support - we can't do this alone.

TBARTA greatly appreciates and accepts the state Department of Transportation's assistance with the technical work needed to develop the master plan.

Additionally, the funding received from local MPOs, county governments, and private organizations like the Tampa Bay Partnership has solidified mutually beneficial regional partnerships.

However, it is also clear that TBARTA needs some autonomy. Providing TBARTA an initial source of funding will provide the group the degree of independence it needs.

TBARTA's mission is vitally important to the Tampa Bay region. The implementation of a Regional Transportation Master Plan will help move people and freight in ways other than our overcrowded highways. It will improve the quality of life for our region, create jobs and access to affordable housing, foster tourism, and provide economic development opportunities.

Mass transit should be a priority for all levels of government as the state's citizens are hurting and desperate for solutions to our transportation crisis. With gas prices approaching $4 a gallon and most of our major roadways severely congested, we need transportation choices.

With the governor's continued support, TBARTA will be part of this solution.

Shelton Quarles is chairman of the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority.

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