Sarasota Livin'

I can see some logic in creating an 8 county regional transportation planning authority -- I just don't think it's first job should be to create a new beltway around Tampa -- if that is what is planned it is a bad idea -- to spend $billions on a new road before looking at alternative transportation ideas. A new interstate (even a limited access toll road) would create another huge growth spurt in a state that is pretty taxed on water and other resources.

8-county agency seen as answer

By DALE WHITE
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They believe it's too nearsightedly focused on local priorities and constrained by its divvied-out shares of gas taxes to build the major network of transit lines and expressways they say will be needed alternatives to Interstate 75, U.S. 41 and other routes.

They contend Tampa Bay can't wait any longer to kick-start such projects, and back formation of a Tampa Bay Regional Transportation Authority that would span Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties.

The authority would build toll roads and transit systems for the area, which has a population of nearly 4 million. During the next 40 years, the population is expected to double, while the prices of land, labor and material will go up.

The new authority would sell bonds to private investors and pay off the debt with fares and tolls. It could leverage that borrowing power to also qualify for federal dollars that, so far, have eluded Florida.

"It would have no taxing authority," Galvano said. "It would not take tax dollars from any existing entities."

If their vision becomes a reality, ferries could become an option to congested bridges. Residents could rely on commuter trains to get to jobs and airports in neighboring counties. A limited-access expressway, similar to Florida's turnpike, could enable motorists and truckers who willingly pay extra to bypass more crowded highways.
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