THEA Celebrates 50th Year as Local Leader in Transportation

TAMPA, Fla., July 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in July.  50 years ago, the leaders of Tampa and Hillsborough County saw a significant need for transportation improvements in Tampa Bay.  These leaders had the vision to ask the Florida Legislature to create a local transportation agency that would allow the region to use its own resources for these improvements.  In 1963, the Legislature created THEA.  Since then, THEA has become a leader in regional transportation, building crucial roadways in Hillsborough County such as the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway and implementing innovative solutions including the first All Electronic Tolling Reversible Express Lanes in the world.

"THEA has accomplished a great deal over the past 50 years," said Stephen Diaco, Chairman.  "I'm particularly proud of what this team has achieved in the past 5 years alone.  We have recovered from challenges while securing THEA's independence and local control.  We have brought new technologies, innovative ideas and improved management to help solve the transportation needs of Hillsborough County.  These bold steps forward are paving the way for THEA's next 50 years."

Diaco highlights THEA's flourishing community outreach programs such as the Swann underpass improvements, the permanent installation of artistic lighting on the downtown bridges and the public art on the Brandon Parkway, THEA's USF scholarship program, and its success at obtaining a Federal grant for bike paths and walkways.

The Expressway opened its first section from Gandy Blvd to Downtown in 1973.  Its completion to Brandon in 2004 provided an essential roadway to many of the region's commuters and alleviated traffic from the nearby I-275.  The Selmon Expressway also boasts the world's first Reversible Express Lanes (REL) and features Florida's first All Electronic Tolling system. 

Most importantly, in December 2012, THEA gained its independence from the Florida Department of Transportation through the sale of more than $455 million in bonds. The highly anticipated I-4 Connector is expected to be completed in December 2013. The Connector will expedite the flow of freight traffic from the port to the interstate while alleviating local traffic congestion on neighboring roadways.

About Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority

Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is a user-financed public agency led by a Board of local citizens. Operating with no tax dollars, THEA develops and owns toll highways, including Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, as well as non-tolled roads, including Brandon Parkway and Meridian Avenue. All tolls collected by THEA are reinvested into projects in Hillsborough County. For more information, visit www.tampa-xway.com.

SOURCE Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority