HART Seeks Public Input on Route 1 Fare-Free Pilot

HART is inviting customers to participate in a new survey to help gather feedback on the City of Tampa-funded Route 1 Fare-free Pilot. The customer survey is open through Sunday, June 15, 2025.

The survey will gather critical community input on the fare-free Route 1 pilot and overall transit needs.

The Route 1 Fare-free pilot was launched in January 2025 to explore the benefits of fare-free service on one of Tampa’s key transit corridors. The pilot removed the fare on Route 1 and increased frequency on Route 1 from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes during peak hours. The Pilot is scheduled to end in January 2026.

Community members who ride Route 1 are encouraged to participate and help inform long-term planning, including service expansion and evaluating the success and future of fare-free options like the Route 1 Pilot.

The survey is quick to complete and available in English and Spanish.

Survey Links:

• English: Route 1 Rider Survey
• Spanish: Encuesta para pasajeros de la Ruta 1

Storm Season is Here! HART Ready to Operate Emergency Service

In the event of a declared emergency, the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) will operate its Emergency Evacuation Service at the direction of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

The Emergency Service level is a modified service designed to assist residents in safely reaching designated evacuation shelters. HART buses will transport passengers to four key transfer centers: Netpark, Northwest, Yukon, and the University Area Transit Center. From these locations, Hillsborough County Public Schools will provide transportation to county-approved evacuation shelters.

In low-lying areas, residents in need of transportation to a designated transit center can request HART’s on-demand zone service by calling (813) 254-4278. This service connects individuals to the nearest transit center, where they can then transfer to routes serving designated evacuation meeting points, if necessary.

Emergency Evacuation Service concludes once sustained winds reach 35 mph or if road conditions become unsafe for continued operations. HART urges the public to monitor local news outlets for real-time updates.

Both the Emergency Evacuation and on-demand zone services are free of charge.

“Preparedness is key when severe weather approaches, and HART stands ready to serve our community when called upon,” said Richard Campbell, HART Chief Safety Officer. “As we saw last hurricane season, our team is committed to providing safe and reliable transportation to help residents reach shelter and stay out of harm’s way.”

All HART buses are ADA-accessible and equipped to accommodate up to two wheelchairs per vehicle, ensuring inclusive transportation for all residents.

Residents are encouraged to review the Emergency Service maps and schedules in advance by visiting www.goHART.org.