Yeah, the riverfront, Bayfront, and beachfront festivals have tapered off a tad due to the *ahem* overall weather, but the civic news never sleeps around here. We’re sharing the latest updates you need to know across Tampa Bay:
The return of the Cross Bay Ferry
This year’s Cross Bay Ferry season ended earlier than expected. But we have some good news for those eager to enjoy one of TBAY’s coolest modes of transportation.
The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority Board just approved the transfer of a $4.86 million federal grant to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. Which will equip the organization to buy one or more high-speed ferry vessels to set up a permanent service — for a much-reduced cost.
The new service could be in use as early as 2026, according to a release.
Weigh in on hurricane relief funding
You know we love to equip you with the facts — and share ways for you to tap in. Hillsborough County is looking for your feedback on how it should spend $700+ million in hurricane recovery money.
A reminder: 70% of the Community Development Block Grant funding must be spent within low-to-moderate-income populations. Public meetings are booked for:
- Wednesday, June 4 at Pierce Middle School
- Tuesday, June 10 at Emanuel P. Johnson Recreation Center
- Thursday, June 12 at Maureen Gauzza Library
- Friday, June 13 at Lennard High School
- Wednesday, June 18 at Sayde Gibbs Martin Community Center
If you can’t make a meeting, you can also share your thoughts via this survey.
Tampa’s hurricane prep
In a similar vein, Mayor Jane Castor also announced the city recently removed 500 tons of debris from its stormwater system + spruced up its response plans, according to WUSF.
Leaders are also considering buying and installing AquaFences to protect against up to 15 ft of flooding at vital locations.
Beyond city government efforts, Tampa Electric has trimmed trees, installed stronger poles, and transferred 200+ miles of overhead power lines underground. What’s next? TECO plans to install flood walls and raise equipment.
