Thirty-five years after initial discussions, Tampa Bay’s three metropolitan planning organizations—Forward Pinellas, Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization, and Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization—may soon merge. Advocates argue the merger would create the state’s largest MPO, securing federal funding based on population and transit ridership. While legal requirements mandate equitable representation, officials emphasize the need for political will to finalize the merger by 2027. A workshop will address governance structure, with a vote likely in March or April. Approval from county commissions and city councils is also required.
Tampa Bay MPOs Plan Merger to Secure Regional Funding
