8 Conclusion South County is clearly experiencing rapid growth, creating increasing need for employment, housing, shopping, and transportation. The review of plans and studies reveals that a variety of efforts are underway to address the area’s transportation needs, support economic development, and expand modal options. It also indicates a desire of residents for livable communities and a more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly environment. In November 2018, Hillsborough County voters approved the Transportation Surtax for a 30- year penny sales tax. The proposed County Charter amendment identified that more than half of the proceeds will improve transportation by funding projects that reduce roadway user vulnerability, reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve the transportation network. Additionally, funds will be allocated to improve transit service by enhancing bus services, and expanding public transit options. 8.1 Similarities, Common Themes and Potential Conflicts This section concludes the analysis with a few observations regarding the similarities, common themes, and potential conflicts among the various plans and studies reviewed. Below are key highlights from this review. Similarities and Common Themes: Many of the community plans identified a desire for a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly environment, a town center, and improved transit service. Potential Conflicts: Some roadways included in town center visions are major through traffic and evacuation routes not conducive to town center treatments and high levels of bicycle and pedestrian activity. Examples are US 301 and Big Bend Road (Riverview) and US 41 (Ruskin).
Complete streets designs were not evident among the PD&E studies reviewed.
Existing land uses, street network configurations, and planned densities are generally not currently aligned with the type and location of town center that is expressed in community plans and visions. Additional master planning and form based codes are an opportunity to advance these visions. Similarities and Common Themes: Several community plans noted growth in truck traffic on major routes as an area of concern. Potential Conflicts: The expansion of Port Redwing, construction of the Amazon Fulfilment Center, and designation of a freight logistic zone in the study area indicate a potential for growth in truck volumes in the study area. This growth corresponds with projections for significant job growth in the industrial sector in South County. The population in
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