HART to Implement Service Changes August 16

The Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) will implement service changes beginning Sunday, August 16, 2026, to enhance operational efficiency and provide a more reliable and convenient customer experience.

Schedule Changes:

• Routes 1, 12, 30, 34, 39, 45, 360LX, 400, and HARTFlex East Fletcher will see schedule changes

Additional changes to Route 360LX (Brandon/South Tampa) include:

• Service to the J.C. Handly Park-n-Ride will move to a bus stop on Kings Avenue.
• Route 360LX will no longer serve the shelter located inside the J.C. Handly Park-n-Ride parking lot.
• A new timepoint will be added at Providence Park to accommodate layovers.

Customers are encouraged to review updated schedules before traveling and allow additional time as the changes take effect.

Updated schedules and trip-planning information are available on the "Maps and Schedules" paget at GoHART.org.

Customers may also visit a HART Customer Service Center or call 813-254-4278 for assistance.

HART Service is Temporarily Fare Free to Support Milton Recovery - EXTENDED Through Oct. 28!

UPDATE (10.21.2024) - Fare-free service has been EXTENDED through Monday, October 28, 2024.

HART is pleased to announce that effective immediately, HART Bus, HARTPlus, and HARTFlex will operate fare-free until October 21st, 2024.

This initiative aims to provide transportation services to our community during the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Milton.

The decision to implement fare-free service is driven by three critical factors:

1. Emergency Transportation: Residents traveling to Emergency Comfort Stations established by the County will also benefit from free transit, enabling access to vital services during this challenging time.
2. Aid for Displaced Residents: Fare-free transit will help displaced residents, ensuring they have the means to move around safely.
3. Support for Students: All school students will have access to fare-free bus trips, ensuring they can attend school without the burden of transportation costs.

With ongoing detours and route adjustments due to hurricane damage, our bus operators are facing increased challenges. Implementing a fare-free policy will simplify operations and allow our drivers to focus on safely transporting all customers, whether they are traveling for education or in need of emergency assistance.

Offering free transit during this extended Hillsborough County State of Emergency is a crucial step in supporting our community. By eliminating transportation costs, HART’s goal is to relieve financial pressure on families and ensure that students can continue their education while providing residents with access to emergency services without additional burden.

HART is committed to serving our community and encourages all residents to take advantage of this fare-free service during these critical recovery efforts.

For more information about routes and schedules, please visit www.goHART.org or contact HART Customer Service at (813) 254-4278.

HART April 14 Service Changes are Postponed to May 12, 2024

UPDATE: The HART Service Changes previously scheduled for April 14, 2024, are postponed to May 12, 2024, due to unforeseen technology issues.

HART staff have encountered issues with our Computer-Aided Dispatch / Automatic Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) system that have led to the need to delay the implementation of adjustments to our service routes and schedules. The CAD/AVL software has reached the end of its useful life and HART is currently in the procurement process for a new system.

The issue primarily impacts our Google Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data, which involves real-time travel information.

To ensure a smooth transition and to provide you with the high-quality service you expect from HART, we have rescheduled the service changes to take effect on May 12, 2024.

Please be assured that we are working diligently to resolve the technology issues and minimize any further delays.

Customers can contact Customer Service at 813-254-4278 with any questions.

HART COVID 19 UPDATE: HART Announces Temporary Reduction of Service Hours for Transit Service

Beginning April 1, 2020, HART is reducing bus and van service levels due to closures along routes, reduced demand for service, and in support of Hillsborough County's 'Safer-at-Home' order.

HART Operating Service for Essential Trips:

HART will be operating all modes of transit on a Sunday service schedule with regular fares beginning April 1, 2020. HART Administrative Offices and Customer Service Centers will remain open. It is recommended riders travel for essential or emergency purposes only. Any adjustments will be made as needed based on changing conditions.

• Route(s) 20X, 24LX, 25LX and Route 31 will operate regular weekday service (no service reduction).

• Route 75LX will not operate.

• Route(s) 60 and 360 LX will operate regular weekday service, and a Sunday service schedule on weekends.

• Route 275LX will operate regular daily service (no service reduction).

Los servicios de autobús, tranvía, HARTPlus y HARTFlex seran reducidos a partir del miércoles, primero de abril del 2020 debido a la reducción en la cantidad de pasajeros a causa del COVID-19 y para apoyar la orden del condado de Hillsborough "Safer at Home".

el aviso

HARTPlus Operating Regular Service for Essential Trips:

It is recommended that HARTPlus customers cancel any rides that are not necessary, and prioritize reservations for essential or emergency purposes only. Trips can be canceled by calling Customer Service (813) 254-4278 at least two hours in advance. Please call your destination to confirm they are open before boarding, as many community facilities and events have been canceled or closed.

Streetcar Reduced Hours:

The TECO Line Streetcar System service will continue to operate the regular Weekday and Weekend schedule, however, service will end at 9:00 PM nightly.

FREE Rides for Youth 18 and Under:

As of Monday, March 23, 2020, HART is offering free rides to youth 18 and under until regular classes resume. Hillsborough County School District has designated 23 'Grab-and-Go' locations for pickup of nutritious meals during school closures from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. HART asks students to take only ESSENTIAL trips on transit.

No Public Meetings:

HART has canceled all public meetings (including committee meetings and board meetings) through Monday, April 13, 2020.

HART's number one priority is the health of our employees and customers. As such, HART has implemented an enhanced disinfection regime to reduce the spread of COVID-19, which includes disinfecting frequent touch-points such as: vehicle entry ways, steering wheels/controllers, operator seats, protective shields, modesty panels, stanchion bars, customer seat backs and hand rails on buses, vans and streetcars. All HART facilities surfaces, door knobs, sinks, faucets, hand rails and other common areas are also being disinfected.

We ask customers to practice good hygiene and social distancing and for those that may be sick, to look at other commuting options, such as telecommunication. If you do not have to travel, please don't.

HART will continue to operate service as long as possible, as public transportation is a vital resource for many needing to stock up on supplies, get to work, or to the doctor.

However, HART remains in constant communication with our local, state, and national partners and will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation.

Visit www.goHART.org for the latest HART service information.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

CUSTOMER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In coordination with the Hillsborough County Office of Emergency in response to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) HART’s goal is to maintain as much service with the minimum inconvenience to customers. The top priority is to protect employees while minimizing inconvenience to customers.

What is HART doing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 when using public transit services?

HART is disinfecting its fleet help reduce the spread of the coronavirus COVID-19. Our enhanced regimen includes additional disinfecting of frequent touchpoints such as disinfecting vehicle entry ways, fare boxes, steering wheels, operator seats, protective shields, modesty panels, stanchion bars, customer seat backs and hand rails on buses, vans and streetcars. All HART facilities’ surfaces, door knobs, sinks, faucets, hand rails and other common areas are being disinfected as well as customer amenities. 

The cleaning agents used in this effort are deemed effective for these purposes and contain anti-viral components such as bleach/water mixes and other disinfectant sprays.

HART is working in coordination with the Hillsborough County's Office of Emergency Management, in support of the public health response to slow the spread of COVID-19.

We are recommending that all HART employees and customers stay vigilant with good hygiene practices as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and stay home if you are sick. On-board signage and announcements have been installed to encourage seat staggering while riding.

We also ask that customers limit use of the HART systems for trips that are essential and necessary.

Has HART changed service yet?

As of Wednesday, April 1, 2020, HART will temporarily reduce service hours and operate all modes of transit on a Sunday service schedule with regular fares, due to closures along routes, reduced demand for service, and to support Hillsborough County's “Safer-at-Home” order. HART will also operate service Monday through Friday for Routes 20X, 24LX, 25LX, 31, and 60LX on their regular weekday schedule. There will be no HARTFlex service.

• All HART public meetings are cancelled until April 13, 2020
• TECO Streetcar will have abbreviated operating hours beginning March 20, 2020.
  The abbreviated service hours reflect the recent shutdown of bars and other entertainment activities, and the limiting of restaurant hours due to COVID-19.
  
  
  Temporary streetcar service hours:

§  Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

§  Saturday - Sunday: 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

How does the current Hillsborough County "Safer-at-Home" order and 9 PM - 5 AM curfew impact HART service?

The curfew currently does not apply to essential workers or essential trips. Public transportation is exempt from the order, as we continue to serve essential workers.

What if a HART vehicle has transported someone with COVID-19?

If a vehicle has been identified that a suspected or confirmed case of a patron or HART employee tested positive for COVID-19, the vehicle will be quarantined and disinfected by HART's HAZMAT vendor, Bio 1. The vehicle is safe for service 90 minutes after it has been disinfected.

What can I do to prevent the spread of COVID-19?

It is recommended that customers travel for emergency or essential purposes only. If you are sick, we ask you not to ride HART. People riding on public transit are encouraged to practice social distancing by allowing enough space from each other. It is recommended for everyone to stay vigilant with good hygiene practices as outlined by the CDC: 

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw it in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow to avoid contaminating your hands.

Is HART limiting the number of riders per bus?

We are encouraging social distancing to customers. Staggered seating signs, encouraging riders to sit in every other row, are posted on all buses. We ask customers who are sick to stay home and to limit their travel to essential trips.

What is HART’s service plan to deal with COVID-19?

As of Wednesday, April 1, 2020, HART will temporarily reduce service hours and operate all modes of transit on a Sunday service schedule with regular fares, due to closures along routes, reduced demand for service, and support of the Hillsborough County “Safer-at-Home” order. HART will also operate service Monday through Friday for Routes 20X, 24LX, 25LX, 31, and 60LX on their regular weekday schedule. There will be no HARTFlex service.

What if Pandemic conditions require the complete quarantine of Hillsborough County?

If pandemic conditions require a complete quarantine of Hillsborough County, all regularly scheduled bus, paratransit and streetcar service will be discontinued. All rolling stock and facilities will be properly secured. 

Restoration of service will require up to three (3) days to complete. Restoration will happen in the reverse order of the service reduction:

• Step 1: Staff requirements will be assessed.
• Step 2: Operator for all modes of transit will be contacted by Operations Control Center.
• Step 3: Vehicles will be inspected for service readiness.
• Step 4: Customer Service representatives will begin contacting subscription customers for Paratransit reservations.
• Step 5: Begin service delivery

How will I know when HART reduces service?

Continue to check www.GoHART.org or call Customer Service (813) 254-4278 for the latest updates. 

Will HART give employees masks to address their fears of contracting the COVID-19?

HART is providing gloves, facemasks, and sanitizer to service workers daily as supply numbers permit. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, such as avoiding touching your eyes or nose, and covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue. HART is reminding front line employees of these preventive measures.

HART to Install Driver Safety Barrier on all Buses and HARTFlex Vans

HART stands United

HART with the support of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1593 is installing driver safety barriers on all HART buses and HARTFlex vans.

"HART has been working with the ATU over the past few weeks to enhance the safety of the driver compartment and implement a solution that works for our employees. I am happy to announce that we have reached an agreement," said HART CEO Ben Limmer. "The safety and security of our employees remains a priority at HART as they serve our customers with the highest level of professionalism."

The ATU and HART have mutually agreed to a custom-fit protective barrier with extended tempered glass to cover the operator space.

"Following the senseless passing of one of our own, we voiced our concerns, and would like to thank HART leadership for listening to us," said ATU International Vice President Curtis Howard. "We are working together to take immediate action to ensure that our members are safe and that a tragedy like that never happens again."

HART has allocated $1,000,000 towards the driver safety barrier project with each installed barrier estimated to cost $5,000.

HART FY2018 System Redesign: South Tampa and Westshore

The July 26th Public Hearing is less than a week away! Still unsure how the proposed FY2018 system redesign affects your area? Stick with us as we breakdown the changes for South Tampa and the Westshore area.

If you are not aware, HART is undergoing a major system redesign, in which EVERY route will be affected in some way.

Map of the proposed FY2018 system redesign for South Tampa/Westshore

Summary of Changes:

• Service Additions: 

• Route 11: Proposed new service from Downtown to Main St., Spruce St. and International Plaza, with new stops.
• Route 17: Proposed new service would cover part of Route 19 from Britton Plaza Transfer Center to O’Brien/Idaho.
  
• Route 60LX: Proposed all-day service would provide hourly service between Brandon Mall, Downtown Tampa. Tampa International Airport, and Northwest Transfer Center.
  
• Route 275LX: Proposed all-day service would provide hourly service between University Area Transit Center, Downtown Tampa, and Tampa International Airport. 
• Route 360LX: Proposed all-day service would provide hourly connections between Westfield Brandon Mall, Downtown Tampa, Britton Plaza and MacDill Air Force Base. Combined with 60LX service, 30 minute LX service would exist from Westfield Brandon to Downtown Tampa.

• Route 4:
  
  • Downtown/South Tampa: Route 4 would be removed and replaced by Route 19, from Marion Transit Center to Britton Plaza Transfer Center.
  • South Tampa: Route 4 would be replaced by new all-day limited express route (360LX), which would operate between Britton Plaza to MacDill AFB. redesigned Route 19 would cover portions of Route 4. 
  • South Tampa would also be served by HARTFlex.
• Route 7:
  • Would now operate between Downtown and HCC-Dale Mabry campus. Connections from HCC to Citrus Park would be provided on Routes 36 and 39.
  • Hyde Park: Route would shift from Howard/Armenia to North Blvd. via
    Columbus Ave. Route 14 would serve Howard/Armenia to Swann Ave.
  • West Tampa Transfer Center: Route would no longer enter the Transfer Center.

• Route 14:
  
  • Route would increase frequency to every 30 minutes on weekdays.
  • Hyde Park: Route would run down Howard/Armenia to Swann Ave. North Blvd. stops would be served by Route 7.
  • Route 30/Kennedy Blvd. would provide access to the Marion Transit Center.
  • Overall: Weekday/Weekend service would operate 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday service would be added.

• Route 15:
  
  • East Tampa: Eastern end of the route would run from Columbus Dr. north to Netp@rk Transfer Center on 50th St., with new stops. Route would no longer serve Orient Road Jail.
   
• Route 17: Route will utilize Manhattan Ave.
  

• Route 19:
  
  • Downtown: Route would shift from Transitway to Florida Ave./Tampa St.
  • Hyde Park: Route would shift slightly from Cleveland to Swann Ave. after serving Tampa General Hospital.
  • South Tampa: The route would end at Britton Plaza Transfer Center.

• Route(s) 24LX/25LX:
  
  • Routes would operate with similar schedule with added stops in Downtown Tampa.
• Route 30:
  • Downtown: Minor route shift from Transitway to Florida Ave./Tampa St. 
  • Airport: Route would run from downtown/Marion Transit Center to Tampa International Airport. New Route 60LX would provide service to the Northwest Transfer Center.
• Route 32:
  • West Tampa: Route would no longer use the West Tampa Transfer Center. Transfers would take place on Dale Mabry Hwy.
  • Orient Park: Route would no longer shift onto Broadway.
  • Route would be expanded to operate between Netp@rk Transfer Center and Tampa International Airport. Service from Netp@rk Transfer Center to the Mango Walmart would be provided by the new Route 38.
• Route 36:
  
  • South Tampa: Route would provide service to Britton Plaza Transfer Center. New all-day 360LX would serve Britton Plaza to MacDill AFB hourly.
• Route 45:
  • East Tampa/University Area: Route would serve Yukon Transfer center, and run on 15th St. between Linebaugh Ave. and University Area Transit Center.
  • North Tampa: Route would run on Florida Ave., between Waters and Linebaugh.
  • Carrollwood: Route would shift from Himes Ave. to Dale Mabry Hwy.
  • University Area: HyperLINK service available within the zone.
• HARTFlex South Tampa:
  • HARTFlex South Tampa is being adjusted north to Cypress to cover part of the current Route 10.

South Tampa and the Westshore area will see the addition of 5 new routes, including new all-day, limited stop connections to Brandon, MacDill AFB, Tampa International Airport, and the University area.

Weekday frequency would increase to 30 minutes on route 14, and routes 14 and 19 would expand operating hours.

The remainder of the changes involve routing. Click here for an interactive map, showing proposed routing and stops. Please note schedules provided on the page are for planning purposes only. October 2017 schedules are currently being developed.

We have tried our best to minimize any coverage loss and to provide alternatives for eliminated service. Should you find yourself in such a situation, a vanpool may make a great option. Visit TBARTA's website for more information.

Take an online survey regarding the HART system redesign!

Please also note, these are proposed changes, that must be approved by the HART Board. A Public Hearing will be held at the HART Administrative Office (1201. E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL, 33605) on July 26th, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Public comment will be available at that time.

In the meantime, visit goHART.org/TDP to see upcoming meetings, take a survey, share comments, and learn more about the HART system redesign process!

Route of the Week: HARTFlex South Tampa

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

Our featured Route of the Week is HARTFlex South Tampa!

HARTFlex is an on-demand van service that provides reservation or walk-up service. HARTFlex operates along a traditional route, but has the ability to "flex" up to 1/3 mile from the route within the zone.

HARTFlex South Tampa zone

HARTFlex South Tampa operates Monday-Friday between Britton Plaza Transfer Center and Westshore Plaza Transfer Center, with select trips to the MacDonald's Training Center.

Service Hours:

First trip: 

• Leaves Britton Plaza at 6:00 a.m.
• Leaves Westshore Plaza at 6:30 a.m.
• MacDonald's Training Center - 8:30 a.m. (one trip)

 Last trip:

• Leaves Britton Plaza at 7:00 p.m.
• Leaves Westshore Plaza at 6:30 p.m. 
• MacDonald's Training Center - 2:30 p.m. (one trip)

The HARTFlex South Tampa zone is a foodie heaven!


Here are just some of the restaurants within the HARTFlex South Tampa zone:

Datz' famous "Cheesy Todd" burger!

• Besito Mexican Restaurant
• Maggiano's Little Italy
• P.F. Chang's
• Mitchell's Fish Market
• Seasons 52
• Datz
• 4 Rivers Smokehouse
• Your Pie
• Miguel's Mexican Seafood and Grill
• SoHo Sushi
• Acropolis Greek Taverna
• Pane Rustica
• Lemon Grass Thai Kitchen

Need to work off all of that food? Orangetheory Fitness, LA Fitness, Barre Fitness, Tampa Fitness Center, and Dan Wall Fitness all fall within the HARTFlex South Tampa zone.

HARTFlex also has those working at one of Westshore Plaza's over 110 stores covered. HARTFlex South Tampa picks up and drops off at the Westshore Transfer Center, where riders can connect to routes 15, 30, and 45!

Those looking for a Pinellas County connection can transfer from HARTFlex Tampa to PSTA's 100X (along with HART routes 4,19, and 36) at the HART Britton Plaza Transfer Center.

From Lemon Grass, to LA Fitness, HART Takes You There.

Route of the Week: HARTFlex Northdale

HARTFlex Northdale map

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

HARTFlex Northdale gets the spotlight this week!

HARTFlex is an on-demand van service that provides reservation or walk-up service. HARTFlex operates along a traditional route, but has the ability to "flex" up to 1/3 mile from the route within the zone.

HARTFlex Northdale operates Monday-Saturday between St. Joseph's Hospital - North and a HART stop at Fletcher Avenue and Dale Mabry Highway.

Service hours: 

• Monday-Friday:
  
  • First trip leaves Fletcher/Dale Mabry stop at 5:25 a.m.
  • First trip leaves St. Joseph's Hospital at 5:55 a.m.
  • Last trip leaves Fletcher/Dale Mabry stop at 8:25 p.m.
  • Last trip leaves St. Joseph's at 8:55 p.m.
• Saturday:
  
  • First trip leaves Fletcher/Dale Mabry stop at 6:45 a.m.
  • First trip leaves St. Joseph's Hospital at 7:10 p.m.
  • Last trip leaves Fletcher/Dale Mabry stop at 5:45 p.m.
  • Last trip leaves St. Joseph's Hospital at 6:10 p.m.

HARTFlex Northdale serves St. Joseph's Hospital - North!

HARTFlex Northdale provides a connection from Route(s) 36 and 33 to St. Joseph's Hospital - North. Patrons can transfer between the services at the Fletcher Avenue/Dale Mabry stop.

Love food? The Northdale area is a haven for a variety of restaurants! Here is just a sampling of options within the HARTFlex zone:

• 4 Rivers Smokehouse - BBQ restaurant that features all of your southern comfort food favorites from pulled pork to fried okra.
• The Sacred Pepper - Traditional American cuisine presented in stylish digs, plus live music & a separate wine lounge.
• Cigar City Brewpub - Cuban-influenced Tampa cuisine meets a lineup of house brews in this spacious, dark-wood tavern.
• Umami Tampa - A variety of sushi, sashimi, and more!
  
• Carmel Kitchen & Wide Bar - Chain serving modern Mediterranean fare, global wines & house cocktails in a warm, informal space.
• Simply Pho - Family-owned restaurant that offers a vast selection of authentic and delicious Vietnamese dishes in a comfortable casual environment.

Attend King High School or Gaither High School? HARTFlex Northdale may be a great alternative to taking the school bus! With HARTFlex service, riders can subscribe to be picked up from their house everyday at a specific time. No need to call in every time to reserve!

HARTFlex service is only $1.00 per trip or $2.00 all-day. One-day and 31-day passes are also accepted for HARTFlex service.

From sashimi to St. Joseph's Hospital, HART Takes You There.

Route of the Week: HARTFlex South County

HARTFlex South County provides door-to-door van service!

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

The spotlight is on South County this week, as HARTFlex South County is the Route of the Week!

Launched in April 2010, HARTFlex South County started as a pilot project (along with the Brandon area) testing demand for door-to-door van service.

Quick refresher on HARTFlex service. HARTFlex vans operate along a fixed route (like traditional bus service). However, the service will also "flex" from the fixed route within the designated zone. Patrons wanting to be picked up or dropped off outside the designated route can make an advanced reservation. HARTFlex reservations may be made by calling 813-254-4278 anywhere from 2 hours, to 3 days in advance of your trip. Fares are $1.00 per trip, or $2.00 for an all-day HARTFlex pass.

HARTFlex South County operates Monday-Friday. First trip leaves Hillsborough Community College (HCC) SouthShore at 6:05 a.m. First trip leaves La Estancia Apartments at 6:35 a.m. Last trip departs HCC at 7:05 p.m. and the last trip departs La Estancia Apartments at 7:35 p.m. The service operates every 60 minutes.

South County operates between HCC SouthShore and La Estancia Apts.

HARTFlex South County Destinations:

• Sun City Center
• HCC SouthShore
• South Bay Hospital
• King's Point
• Amazon Warehouse
• SouthShore Corporate Park 
• Hillsborough County Tax Collector
• Lennard High School
• Freedom Plaza Community Center

Flamingo Fares is Here!

One Application. One Region. One Fare.

Flamingo Fares has arrived!

With the launch of the Flamingo app on Monday, September 5, riders on both sides of the bay can now purchase a single fare for travel between both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties! The Flamingo app allows patrons to book a 3-day unlimited regional pass, valid for 3 consecutive days for only $11!

The 3-day pass is a test of the technology that will soon allow for the purchase of a variety of pass options, including 1-day, 31-day, etc.

E-fare will be animated and interactive

To pay with Flamingo, customers download the Flamingo app, purchase a ticket on the app, activate it, and show the screen to the Bus Operator upon boarding the vehicle. The mobile payment app will be free to download and available in the iPhone App Store and Google Play Store.

Cash will continue to be accepted on both transit systems, but with a smartphone app, patrons no longer have to worry about carrying the correct change or buying separate fares for different legs of their trip.  

Soon it will bring HART and PSTA into the future by providing easier, faster, and more convenient ways for riders to pay their fares on HART and PSTA.

The 3-Day (consecutive) unlimited ride ticket is valid on all HART and PSTA bus services, as well as, HARTFlex, The TECO Line Streetcar System, Jolley Trolley, Looper Trolley. Flamingo Fares are not valid on HARTPlus or PSTA DART.

This is just the beginning! Hernando, Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota Counties are also implementing the new technology for a future release. HART and PSTA expect to have the total system, which will include smart card technology, up and running by 2018.

After the test period, data from both agencies will be analyzed to determine what concerns need to be addressed before the full system is implemented in 2018.

Route of the Week: HARTFlex Town 'N Country

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

HARTFlex Town 'N Country is our featured Route of the Week!

HARTFlex is only $2 for an all-day pass!

Quick refresher on HARTFlex service. HARTFlex vans operate along a fixed route (like traditional bus service). However, the service will also "flex" from the fixed route within the designated zone. Patrons wanting to be picked up or dropped off outside the designated route, can make an advanced reservation. HARTFlex reservations may be made by calling 813-254-4278 anywhere from 2 hours, to 3 days in advance of your trip. Fares are $1.00 per trip, or $2.00 for an all-day HARTFlex pass.

HARTFlex Town 'N Country operates on a loop Monday-Friday. First trip leaves Northwest Transfer Center (NWTC) at 5:15 a.m. and the last trip is at 6:15 p.m. The service
departs NWTC every 60 minutes.

The Town 'N Country Flex zone serves a mix of destinations from educational facilities (Alonso High School, Town N Country Charter High School) to leisure (Pk's PlayZone and Grille, Skateworld of Tampa, Shimberg Park, Town 'N Country Nature Preserve, etc.).

Outdoorsy types should know that Tampa Bay's only Gander Mountain store is accessible via HARTFlex Town 'N Country. While fans of the sustainable, organic agriculture movement should drop by Sweetwater Organic Community Farm!

Westchase Town Center is home to a mix of dining, shopping, etc.

HARTFlex Town 'N Country also serves the Westchase area with service to the Westchase Town Center, home to the following mix of restaurants and services:

• Burger 21
• Tampa Pizza Company
• Maloney's Irish Pub
• Tijuana Flats
• The Grind Coffee Bar and Cafe
• Zen Bistro + Sushi Bar
• Belanova Salon
• Siam Thai
• World of Beer

Catch Twenty Three, Irish Pub 31 and YMCA West Park Village are also accessible in the Westchase area with HARTFlex service.

Transfers to Route(s) 16,30,34,39,61LX, and connection to Pinellas via the North County Connector from PSTA are available from NWTC.

From Skateworld to Westchase, HART Takes You There.

HARTFlex Town 'N Country Service Map

Route of the Week: HARTFlex Brandon

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

This week, we feature our first HARTFlex route - HARTFlex Brandon!

First, let's take a look at how HARTFlex service differs from traditional fixed-route service.

HARTFlex offers walk-up or reservation service

Like fixed-route service, HARTFlex operates along a designated route (as indicated by the dark blue line with arrows in the map below). Walk-up service is available by waiting at designated HARTFlex stops along the route.

However, unlike fixed-route service, HARTFlex also provides the option of "flexing" from the route within the outlined zone. Patrons wanting to be picked up or dropped off outside the designated route, can make an advanced reservation. HARTFlex reservations may be made by calling 813-254-4278 anywhere from 2 hours, to 3 days in advance of your trip. Fares are $1.00 per trip, or $2.00 for an all-day HARTFlex pass.

HARTFlex Brandon operates Monday - Saturday, with the first weekday trip leaving Westfield Brandon Mall at 6:00 a.m. and last trip at 7:00 p.m. First trip on Saturday leaves Westfield Brandon Mall at 8:00 a.m. and last trip at 8:00 p.m.

Leaving Westfield Brandon Mall, HARTFlex operates along Providence Rd. to Lakewood Dr., where riders can grab a signature Italian beef sandwich at the recently opened famous Chicago eatery, Portillo's.

The route makes a right onto Moon Ave. serving Brandon Regional Hospital workers, or those with non-emergencies. Brandon Regional Library and Clayton Park visitors can board at the HARTFlex stop at Vonderburg Dr. and Bowing Oak Dr.

O'Briens Irish Pub, and the J.C. Handly Sports Complex, are primary destinations as HARTFlex Brandon heads south along Kings Ave. O'Briens being a Brandon hotspot, while J.C. Handly is a HART Park-n-Ride, providing connection to routes 25X or 27LX.

The Stein & Vine has a neighborhood feel!

Turning right onto Bloomingdale Ave., patrons can check out one of Brandon's hidden gems, The Stein & Vine. Unassuming on the outside, the restaurant has a menu that changes daily, and an atmosphere that can't be beat!

Further along Bloomingdale Ave., HARTFlex patrons have a number of options at Winthrop Town Centre. Built as a marketplace destination for suburbanites, the retail center has a number of restaurant options from Moe's Southwest Grill and Acropolis Taverna, to farm-to-table concept Boca Kitchen Bar and Market.

HARTFlex Brandon loops back around to Providence Rd., with a number of apartments, single family homes, and townhouses within reach of Flex.

From Portillo's, to Park-n-Rides, HART Takes You There.

Route of the Week: Route 19

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

Route 19 is our featured Route of the Week!

The Route 19 operates from Marion Transit Center in Downtown, to Idaho and O'Brien St. in South Tampa. Service operates 7 days a week, with weekday service until midnight.

While not the busiest route in the HART system at 18th in ridership, Route 19 still carried almost 439k trips in FY15! That's thousands of cars off our already congested roadways.

Whether for wellness, business, education, or leisure, Route 19 has you covered!

The Route 19 is a crucial commuting tool for healthcare workers, as it is the sole HART route that serves Tampa General Hospital, and one of two routes (the other being HARTFlex South Tampa) to serve Memorial Hospital. Service is tailored to workers at both hospitals, with service beginning at 4:10 a.m. and coverage for workers until roughly 1:00 a.m.

STAY-cation promotion ends June 10th

Two of Hillsborough County's oldest schools are also served by Route 19. Hop off at Dale Mabry Hwy. and San Carlos St. for Plant High School and Manhattan Ave. and Mango St. (or Rembrandt Dr.) for Robinson High School. For a limited time, Hillsborough County middle and high school students ride HART FREE with their valid student, or HART-issued Youth ID. The promotion runs until June 10.

Those looking to transfer to other routes, can do so at Britton Plaza Transfer Center, with connection to 4, 36, HARTFlex South Tampa, and 100X (operated by PSTA).

Riders looking for entertainment have quite the spread to choose from, thanks to Route 19. Known as "America's only thatched roof pub," Four Green Fields has been a South Tampa nightlife landmark for over 20 years.

Looking to bar hop? Route 19 serves a number of restaurants and entertainment destinations in the SoHo District along S. Howard Ave. or, along Swann Ave. in the Hyde Park Village area.

Lightning and music fans will appreciate the connection to Amalie Arena.

From TGH to SoHo, HART Takes You There.

Route 19 operates between Downtown Tampa and South Tampa

Bikes on Buses for National Bike Month!

Happy National Bike Month! We're celebrating alternative commutes and looking at the relationship between personal (bikes) and public transportation.

Coast Bikes can be rented from Marion Transit Center

Over the years, bicycles have gone from being seen as a child's toy, to becoming a serious commuting option. Coast Bike Share, a bike rental service, has rolled out dozens of bike hubs throughout Tampa, including at Marion Transit Center in Downtown.

At HART, we're dedicated to getting our riders to their destination as quickly and efficiently as possible. We see bikes as supplemental to our service and that's why we added racks to our buses and rubber-wheeled trolleys almost 20 years ago. More recently, bike racks have also been added to all of our HARTFlex vans.

In November 2011, folding bikes - in proper carrying bags - were allowed on board.

Bikes on Buses saves time, money and the environment!

Bike riders might not view a 30-mile round trip bike ride to downtown as an attractive commute. However, pair a quick 1-2 mile bike ride with a HART route to pick up the majority of the miles and you have some serious peddle power.

Cycling HART riders find that bikes not only speed up their commutes, but also provide them greater exercise, ground coverage, and route options.

For example, you might live within walking distance of a route 34 stop, but possible transfers don't work well with your schedule. Instead, you choose to bike to the route 1 stop where you can catch a straight shot to Marion Transit Center and save 10 minutes. Couple those time savings with the low-cost of a HART 1-day pass ($4.00) or 31-day pass ($65, $2.10 a day) and you've saved time, money and the environment!

Don't take our word for it though. Roughly 21,000 participated in our Bikes on Buses program last month.

Click here to learn more about the HART Bikes on Buses program, including how to secure your bike on the bus bike rack.  We also have a Bikes on Buses how-to video on our YouTube page here.

Placing your bike on the bus is easy! Just follow these quick steps.

Ride on!

Route of the Week: Route 39

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

We're featuring another east-west route this week with The Route 39!

Route 39 operates from the Town 'N Country/ Citrus Park area to Netp@rk Transfer Center via Busch Boulevard.

One of our newer routes, (relatively speaking) the Route 39 was launched in the early part of the new millennium and has grown steadily. Previously operating hourly, weekday only service, The Route 39 has improved to 30 minute frequency Monday-Saturday, with hourly service on Sunday. The Route 39 is currently our 4th highest ridership, with FY2016 year-to-date ridership at 2.9 million trips.

Westbound Route 39 operates from netp@rk Transfer Center

The Route 39 serves 3 transfer centers: Northwest Transfer Center (routes 16,30,34,39,61LX, HARTFlex Town 'N Country, PSTA North County Connector), Yukon Transfer Center (routes 1,9,14,16,39) and netp@rk Transfer center (6,15,32,34,37,39,41,57).

Beginning our trip at netp@rk Transfer Center, the Route 39 serves netp@rk Tampa Bay. At 956,107 sq. ft, it is the largest single office building in Tampa Bay. Netp@rk currently houses 20 tenants in a mix of industries.

Animal lovers and roller coaster aficionados will appreciate the Route 39 connection to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with a westbound stop at Busch Blvd. at 40th St. and eastbound stop at Busch Blvd and 37th St. The Route 39 operates past park closing time, 7 days a week. 

Hillsborough County middle and high school students are well served on the Route 39 with connections to King and Chamberlain high schools and New Springs and Van Buren middle schools. Even better, Hillsborough County middle and high school students ride HART FREE with school ID or HART-issued Youth ID until June 10th.

Route 39 also serves The Temple Terrace and North Tampa Branch Libraries for those looking for a good book to read while you ride.

Westfield Citrus Park is home to roughly 150 restaurants and stores

Have plans to see the new summer blockbuster? Or, grab a bite to eat? Westfield Citrus Park Mall is home to roughly 150 stores and restaurants. The mall also houses Regal 20 Cinemas, a multi-screen theater complex with concessions.

Our trip on the Route 39 comes to an end at Northwest Transfer Center.

From roller coasters to movie matinees, HART Takes You There.

Route of the Week: Route 36

With a diverse service area roughly the size of Rhode Island, Hillsborough County provides a great mix of urban, suburban and rural destinations for our riders. Think about the destinations that you can see and experience with the HART transportation network!

This week, the Route 36 gets the spotlight as our Route of The Week!

The Route 36 provides service from the Carrollwood area to South Tampa via Dale Mabry Hwy./Himes Ave. The route operates Weekday service from 5:25 a.m. - 9:25 p.m. and Weekend service from 6:10 a.m. - 7:35 p.m. Two major transfer points are located along the Route 36 at West Tampa Transfer Center (WTTC - 7,32,41,45), located near Raymond James Stadium and Britton Plaza (4,19,100x HARTFlex South Tampa) at Euclid Ave. and Dale Mabry Hwy.

For the stat geeks out there, the Route 36 is averaging 47,277 monthly rides and has operated roughly 6,600 vehicle trips so far in FY2016.

Starting our journey in the Carrollwood area, those needing non-emergency medical service can take the Route 36 to Florida Hospital at Himes Ave. and Hamilton St. or St. Joseph's Hospital - North via connection to HARTFlex Northdale at Fletcher Ave. and Dale Mabry Hwy.

Middle/High School students ride FREE until June 10!

The Route 36 may be of interest to Plant and Jesuit High School students, with the return of our STAY-cation promotion. Hillsborough County Middle and High School students, ages 18 and under, ride HART free with School or HART Youth ID until June 10!

Craving an outdoor adventure? Al Lopez Park, named after one of Tampa's most distinguished former residents, offers a 1.2 mile interior asphalt multi-purpose trail, picnic shelters, fishing piers and more. The park is accessible via multiple Route 36 stops along Himes Ave.

HART service is on detour at WTTC during Ray Jay events

Just south of Al Lopez Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Football League, Raymond James Stadium. Route 36 serves Ray Jay at WTTC. Please note: Due to road closures from Tampa Police, WTTC is CLOSED a few hours before/after all major events at Ray Jay. Routes serving WTTC are relocated to St. Isabel St.and MacDill Ave. This may be convenient for event-goers tailgating in the eastern lots.

Need to pick up a treat for the pooch, or grab dinner with friends? Walter's Crossing Shopping Plaza has a mix of retailers and restaurants, from Whole Foods and Target, to PetSmart and Romano's Macaroni Grill. Hop off at Dale Mabry Hwy. and Spruce St.

Your southbound trip on the Route 36 ends at the Kingfisher St. Burger King in South Tampa.

From game day, to every day, HART Takes You There.