One of the main proposals for the future of west central Florida’s mass transit system is light rail. Though many incarnations have been brought up in the past. They’ve all been shot down due to financial overruns and government bickering. I would like to see within the next 10 to 15 years…at least a LRT line connecting Tampa International Airport to downtown Tampa.
Beyond that point, the LRT system would need to connect with northern and eastern Hillsborough County, as well as points in Pinellas County. This would set the stage for a more regional rail system that would connect Pasco County and points north, as well as Manatee/Sarasota Counties and other points south. Even Orlando could be part of this regional rail system.
But the foundations must be made first. That is, the LRT line between TPA Airport and downtown Tampa. Without this first and crucial link, I believe that it would be very challenging to get any rail lines built in the bay area. In the next few weeks, I will be materializing my transit map, which will show bus and rail lines throughout the multi-county area. Until this time, please feel free to share your transit ideas.
The Global Transit Guidebook 