S3 E16 | More People, More Traffic? Innovative Solutions to Pinellas County's Population Explosion

Whit Blanton, executive director of Forward Pinellas, joins Owen LaFave for an in-depth conversation on all things transportation in Tampa Bay. Forward Pinellas is a unique organization in Florida, combining transportation and land use planning to coordinate efforts across 24 municipalities–each with its own specific needs. As Pinellas County continues to grow and closes in on a population of 1 million, what will regional traffic patterns and transportation options look like over the next decade? From public transportation wins like the SunRunner to infrastructure projects like the Gateway Express to the possibility of a high-speed rail connecting Tampa to Miami, this discussion covers a lot of ground. Whit explains why transparent communication is crucial to transportation planning, highlighting how his organization fosters public engagement using focus groups, community ambassadors, and social media to increase awareness and encourage buy-in from communities. If you've ever sat in traffic and wondered if there was a better way to get to work or the beach, don't miss this episode on the exciting transportation developments coming soon to Tampa Bay.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC