On Friday morning, the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) announced a groundbreaking initiative to assist riders along their busiest route.
Free Rides Begin on HART’s Route 1
The wheels on the HART buses continue to turn, but now they’re turning for free thanks to a new pilot program for Route 1. This initiative aims to provide better access to vital services for riders, including veterans and students.
A New Era for Tampa’s Public Transit
“This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing our transit system, providing greater access to mobility and demonstrating that HART is a solid investment in the future of our community,” said Scott Drainville, CEO of HART.
This fare-free program is expected to improve transit options in densely populated areas like the Florida Ave. corridor, offering greater mobility to the community.
Critical Support for Veterans and Students
“This is something that moves us forward 100% with mass transit and especially Route 1. It’s such a pivotal route that has so much to do with our veterans getting to VA appointments, or students going to USF, and everyday working families,” said Luis Viera, Chair of the HART Board of Directors and Tampa City Councilman.
Veteran advocate Corporal RJ Reyes emphasized the program’s importance, saying, “This ranks among the top five critical needs for our veteran community, not only here in Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida, but nationwide. It’s inextricably tied to such things as low-cost affordable housing, viable employment, education, and food security.”
City Investment Drives Change
The City of Tampa is funding the program with $1.65 million. Route 1 was chosen due to its high demand, serving over 3,000 riders daily. The pilot aims to make public transit more accessible while also boosting service frequency to every 15 minutes.
Economic Benefits for the Community
“This is a way we can help people afford their housing more,” said Tampa City Councilmember Lynn Hurtak. “If you don’t have to pay for your car payment, you can just hop on the bus, you can pay a little bit more in housing. So, this hits everybody in a different way.”
Officials believe the money saved on transportation will be spent within the community, making this program an economic driver while supporting families’ financial stability.
Encouraging Broader Use of Public Transit
HART officials hope the program inspires more residents to explore the entire bus system, not just Route 1. “Teach Tampanos how to ride the bus, so they don’t just choose Route 1, they choose the whole system. That helps build the importance of transit throughout our community,” Hurtak said.
Pilot Program Timeline
The pilot program will run from January 5, 2025, to January 4, 2026, offering a full year of free rides and expanded service for Tampa residents.
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