HART plans to expand service

HART's 10-year transit development plan update anticipates the first light-rail line opening in 2019, as well as listing proposals for additional service on local and express routes, and Bus Rapid Transit service on eight corridors.

The draft released this week includes "status quo" plans based on existing funding and "enhanced revenue" plans should more money become available.

Light-rail proponents have suggested the county place a proposal on the 2010 ballot for an additional 1-cent sales tax for transportation.

The status quo plans anticipate that in fiscal year 2012, HART service cannot be sustained with existing revenue.

"HART will be continuing to explore ways to enhance and expand services ... through service restructuring efforts, cost savings strategies and funding initiatives," the plan states.

Capital projects could include replacing 53 large buses and 113 paratransit vans.

In 2010, three North Tampa routes would be restructured, and service on Route 30 would be split into downtown to Town 'N Country and downtown to Tampa International Airport schedules.

In 2011, downtown and West Shore service would be enhanced, supported by impact fees.

In 2012, a north-south rapid transit service would operate between downtown and Interstate 75 along Nebraska and Fletcher avenues.

In 2013, an east-west rapid transit service would operate from Temple Terrace to TIA along Hillsborough Avenue, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Spruce Street.

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority is seeking public comment on the draft plan online at www.gohart.org.

There also will be public sessions Aug. 19 at the University Area Transit Center, 13110 N. 27th St., and Aug. 26 at the Marion Transit Center, 1211 N. Marion St. Both sessions are from 3 to 6 p.m.

Comments also can be made by calling (813) 223-6831, ext. 1705.