HART Launches Customer Survey to Evaluate Transit Network

HART is asking for public input as it launches a Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) — a full review of the HART transit network aimed at improving service based on how, when, and where people travel.

The COA will help HART better understand current community travel patterns, identify where service is most needed, and determine how to provide a more reliable and efficient transit experience. This is HART’s first systemwide review in several years, and community participation is critical to its success.

Riders and community members are encouraged to take a short survey by Sunday, May 25, 2025. As a thank you, participants will be entered into a drawing for a $150 gift card.

“The Comprehensive Operational Analysis is an important check-in to see how well HART is currently serving our community,” said Sean McCarthy, HART Chief Operations Officer. “We want to ensure our transit system reflects the real needs of the people who rely on it daily. Your feedback is essential to helping us improve efficiency and shape the future of service in Hillsborough County.”

The survey is quick and easy to complete and is available in both English and Spanish. Community input will directly inform recommendations for potential service changes, network improvements, and long-term planning.

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HART está solicitando la opinión pública mientras lanza un Análisis Integral de Operaciones (COA), una revisión completa de la red de tránsito de HART destinada a mejorar el servicio en función de cómo, cuándo y dónde viajan las personas.

Se anima a los pasajeros y miembros de la comunidad a realizar una breve encuesta antes del domingo 25 de mayo de 2025. Como agradecimiento, los participantes participarán en un sorteo de una tarjeta de regalo de $150.

HART is Transitioning to Flamingo Fares! Paper Fare Cards are Gone January 5

HART is announcing the official full transition to Flamingo Fares, a faster, more convenient, and more secure way for riders to pay fares across the HART network. Starting January 5, 2025, HART will no longer accept Paper Fare Cards, making way for modern, contactless fare options that simplify the transit experience. New Fare Payment Options Starting January 5, 2025: Flamingo Fares: Tap-and-go payments with a Flamingo smart card or mobile app Contactless debit/credit/pre-paid cards E-wallet options: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay Cash: Exact change will still be accepted for a one-way fare onboard Benefits of Flamingo Fares Convenience: No more paper cards to carry! Simply tap your Flamingo card, mobile phone, or contactless payment card to board. Savings: With daily and monthly fare capping, riders are guaranteed the best value. Easy Refill: Load money onto your Flamingo card or app anytime, either online or at HART Transit Centers. Getting Started with Flamingo Fares: Download the Flamingo Fares App from the App Store or Google Play. Purchase a Flamingo Smart Card at any HART Transit Center or online at FlamingoFares.com. Transfer Any Remaining Balance from your Paper Fare Card to Flamingo Fares before January 5, 2025. “Flamingo Fares brings greater ease, affordability, and flexibility to our riders,” said Sean McCarthy, Chief Operations Officer, HART. “With Flamingo, we’re reducing the need for paper and the cost associated with collecting a paper fare, improving payment security, and enhancing the overall rider experience.” Why wait until January? Join the Flock! Make the switch today and experience a seamless ride with Flamingo Fares. For more information on HART, visit www.goHART.org or contact HART Customer Service at (813) 254-4278.

HART Hosts First Pathways to Business Expo!

Prospective businesses network with local government agencies

Networking

HART DBE/SBE staff hosted the first Pathways to Business Expo on August 17, 2023, at the C. Blythe Andrews Library. This event was held in an effort to connect small and disadvantaged businesses within the Tampa Bay Area with the information and resources needed to do business with government agencies. 

Staff was on hand to help small businesses register to do business with HART. Small businesses were able to network with other local government agencies that can help with DBE & SBE certifications, help find small business loans, offer training on completing bid proposals and help with finding contract opportunities with local and federal government entities.

Comm. Gwen Myers

Forty-three prospective businesses attended the expo, along with special guest Hillsborough County Commissioner Gwen Myers and community leader Marvin Knight. Prospective businesses met with 16 representatives as they networked and learned about current opportunities. Participants could get their passport card stamped at each table for a chance at a drawing for a gift card. Brocato’s Sandwich Shop, which is a small minority-owned business, provided bagged lunches for all participants and vendors and donated (20) $15.00 gift cards for the raffle.

HART’s ICEO Mr. Scott Drainville was in attendance and gave a warm welcome to the participants and vendors in attendance. 

St. Pete Office of Supplier Diversity

Pathways to Business Expo Participant List:

• HART (procurement, facility maintenance, asset management, marketing, project management)
  
• Tampa International Airport
• Hillsborough County (Minority, Women, & Small Business Certification)
• Hillsborough County Department of Procurement
• City of Tampa Equal Business Opportunity
• Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce
• Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) @ USF
• Pinellas County SBDC
• City of St. Petersburg SBE Program
• Hillsborough SBDC
• Prospera (Advancing Hispanic Business)

Thanks to everyone for joining us! 

Interested in working with HART? View current HART opportunities.

HART Operators Compete in Tampa Bay Regional Roadeo!

HART, MCAT and PSTA held the annual Regional Roadeo last weekend at PSTA's Operations and Maintenance Facility. Bus operators from HART, MCAT and PSTA showcased their driving skills in various challenges.

Almost 40 operators were judged on a rigid, scored course, consisting of different obstacles. Operators were evaluated on 16 criteria including a pre-trip inspection of their vehicle, uniform compliance, 11 different driving challenges, smoothness of operation, and safety habits - all on a timed course. 

Participants also had to conduct a vehicle inspection to locate pre-set defects that would render the vehicle inoperable and/or unsafe.

HART Bus Operator Crystal Edwards placed #2 out of 37 HART, MCAT and PSTA operators and was among seven HART operators competing in the Roadeo. 

Joining these competitors were employees and vendors from both agencies who volunteered as judges and assessed contestants driving skills, knowledge of safety rules, time performance and maintenance skills. 

HART's first, second and third place winners

Roadeo Results (Among HART operators)

• 1st Place - Crystal Edwards - 2nd place overall
• 2nd Place - Guarionex Falero Ramos
• 3rd Place - Tia Allen

Crystal Edwards now advances to the State Roadeo held in Orlando. Winners from the State competition move on to the APTA International Bus Roadeo.

HART CEO Adelee Le Grand Named To Power 100 List For 2nd Consecutive Year

The Tampa Bay Business Journal has named HART CEO Adelee Le Grand, AICP, as one of Tampa Bay’s most influential business leaders.

On February 1, the publication released its annual Power 100 List, recognizing Le Grand amongst a host of other prominent local business leaders, including the owners of the local sports franchises, as well as the CEOs of Publix, the University of South Florida and Tampa International Airport.

The Power 100 list recognizes individuals for their leadership qualities, and how their work helps to "shape the paths and fortunes" of the regional business community. 

This marks Le Grand’s second consecutive year on the influential list.

Inclusion on this list demonstrates how Le Grand has been strategic in building relationships with business and civic leaders whose support of public transit is key to expanding customer-focused mobility options in Hillsborough County.

Since her arrival at HART in January 2021, Le Grand has been laser-focused on creating a new vision for the organization by establishing trust and transparency, cultivating a culture of operational excellence and building meaningful strategic partnerships. 

You can read the article here. 

HART CEO Adelee Marie Le Grand, AICP

Roll to the Polls with HART on November 8!

HART wants to help you Roll to the Polls on Election Day!

All riders displaying their valid voter information card will receive a FREE lift on HART on November 8.

The Roll to the Polls promotion is valid on all HART services, including HARTPlus.

Riders are encouraged to locate their nearest precinct before leaving the house. You can check your voting status by visiting the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections website. 

Find your nearest precinct and then plan your trip on HART

Exercise your right to VOTE!

HART Board Elects New Leadership for 2022

HART Chair Pat Kemp

At its January 10 meeting, the HART Board elected Commissioner Patricia "Pat" Kemp as Chair, Commissioner Kimberly Overman as Vice-Chair and Director Melanie Williams as Secretary of the HART Board of Directors for 2022.

Commissioner Kemp takes over as HART Chair from Commissioner Mariella Smith, who served in the role for the last two years. Chair Kemp will serve a 1-year term.

"It is a great privilege to be elected as HART Board Chair and continue working alongside the dedicated Board members to serve our customers, employees and the community, said Chair Commissioner Kemp. "I look forward to working together to operate a safe, reliable, efficient and fiscally sound transit system that contributes to the economic success and quality of life of this region and Hillsborough County." 

Commissioner Kemp has been a Board member since November 2016 and served as Chair of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioner in 2021.

Commissioner Kemp has more than three decades of public service in Hillsborough County. As an attorney, she worked both in private practice and for Bay Area Legal Services, providing civil legal services for low-income clients.

Commissioner Kemp has long been an advocate for improving transportation in the county and the region.

Commissioner Kemp also serves on the following County and Regional Boards and Councils:

• Election Canvassing Board
• Environmental Protection Commission (Vice-Chair)
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Southwest Florida Water Management District Liaison
• Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority (TBARTA)
• Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)
• Vale Adjustment Board

In other business, the HART Board appointed HART CEO Adelee Le Grand to serve as the organization's representative on the Hillsborough TPO Board.

The HART Board is responsible for setting policy and making decisions for the Authority on matters ranging from system operations, service planning, fare structure, finance, customer service, and is made up of 14 volunteers who are appointed to represent Hillsborough County (seven seats), City of Tampa (four seats), State of Florida (two seats) and City of Temple Terrace (one seat). Officers of the HART Board (chair, vice-chair and secretary) are elected every year.

 

HART's Response to Slow the Spread of COVID-19

HART has implemented an enhanced disinfection regime to help slow the spread of COVID-19

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas with aerostatic foggers - daily.
• HART provided onsite COVID-19 testing for all employees. 
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees on a daily basis based on availability. Safety shields on fixed-route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• Customers are REQUIRED to wear face coverings onboard HART vehicles. HART is providing FREE face coverings to customers at the Marion Transit Center, University Area Transit Center and via Transit Supervisors.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service. HART is operating at 95% of normal service level.
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders. The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” 
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

HART COVID 19 UPDATE

UPDATE: 7.8.2020:

Four additional bus operators and a van operator have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 22 – including 11 bus operators, 2 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 8 other employees.

UPDATE: 7.6.2020: 

One Streetcar Motorperson has tested positive for the Coronavirus. The Streetcar motorperson last worked June 16-17. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 15 – including 5 bus operators, 1 van operator, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 8 other employees.

UPDATE: 7.2.2020:

All HART employees are now being tested for COVID-19. Currently, 12 HART employees have tested positive since March 2020.

UPDATE: 6.19.2020:

By City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27, HART customers are now REQUIRED to wear face coverings on public transit vehicles and inside HART facilities. 

Two additional employees have tested positive for the coronavirus. This brings the total number of cases at HART to seven. Both employees are not bus operators or in public-facing roles. 

UPDATE: 6.18.2020:
A fifth HART employee has tested positive for the coronavirus.

UPDATE: 6.12.2020: 

The TECO Line Streetcar is now operating until 11 PM, seven days a week. This is the first step in our transition back to regular service.

UPDATE: 5.11.2020: 

Learn more about HART's COVID-19 response efforts.

UPDATE: 4.30.2020:

A second HART operator has tested positive for COVID-19. There are now two confirmed cases of COVID-19 at HART.

4.20.2020:
In an effort to maintain service reliability during the COVID-19 pandemic, HART is announcing an additional reduction of transit service beginning Wednesday, April 22, 2020.

ALERTA DE SERVICIO: Para mantener un nivel de servicio fiable durante la Pandemia de #COVID19, HART anuncia reducciones adicionales de servicios de tránsito. Estos cambios temporales son efectivos el miércoles 22 de abril del 2020.  el aviso

4.14.2020: 

HART has received confirmation that one of our team members has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). This is the first confirmed case of a HART employee testing positive for the coronavirus.

3.30.2020:

HART has announced a reduction of bus, van, and streetcar service levels, beginning April 1, 2020. These service changes reflect closures along routes, reduced demand for service, and in support of Hillsborough County's 'Safer-at-Home' order.

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

3.20.2020: 

A COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is now available. Have a question not covered in the FAQ? Reach out to our social channels or call Customer Service at 813-254-4278.

Beginning on Monday, March 23, 2020, HART service will be FREE to youth 18 and under with valid School or HART Youth ID until regular classes resume. The Hillsborough County School District has designated 23 'Grab-and-Go' locations for pickup of nutritious meals during school closures and virtual learning. 

Many of HART's fixed-bus routes provide service to designated "Grab-and-Go" locations across Hillsborough County. These locations will serve as pick-up sites for breakfast and lunch which are packed and distributed. 

3.19.2020: 

Service hours on the TECO Line Streetcar System are being reduced 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. These hours will be in effect indefinitely.

New temporary streetcar service hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
•  Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday – Sunday: 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Public transportation is a vital resource for many needing to stock up on supplies, get to work, or to the doctor.

3.17.2020: 

The health and safety of our customers and employees is our highest priority. We are writing to update you on the many precautions we are taking in response to the coronavirus, or COVID-19.

HART continues to follow guidelines from the Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Hillsborough County Health Department to try and slow the spread of COVID-19.

HART and TECO Line Streetcar service levels remain normal at this time. However, HART continues to monitor the situation. We understand public transportation is a vital resource for many needing to stock up on supplies, get to work, or to the doctor.

All common areas are being disinfected

HART has increased the frequency in our cleaning/disinfecting regime, which includes the following:

• HART Vehicles: entryways, fare boxes, steering wheels, seats, safety barriers, and handrails

• HART Facilities: door knobs, sinks, faucets, hand rails and other common areas

Please remember to continue to take the following personal precautions:

• 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.

Please practice social distancing. We ask that if you are ill, please stay home, or look at other options such as telecommuting. If you are on board, please be mindful of other customers.

Stay tuned for updates and thank you for riding HART.

We are all in this together.

HART Offers Free Rides to Cross-Bay Ferry Riders!

HART is providing free bus, van, and streetcar rides to passengers of the newly relaunched Cross-Bay Ferry! Riders simply need to show their ferry ticket to the operator and enjoy the ride.

In Hillsborough County, passengers can board any HART fixed-route bus or van service (HARTPLUS excluded), or the TECO Line Streetcar System for free. Ferry riders can pick up the TECO Line Streetcar at Dick Greco Plaza Station, just across the street from the Ferry Terminal.

Catch free streetcar service to Ybor across from Ferry Terminal

Streetcar service operates every 15 minutes, with weekday service (Monday through Thursday) from 7 AM - 11 PM, with extended hours on Friday until 2 AM. In addition, Saturday service operates every 15 minutes, from 8:30 AM – 2 AM and Sunday 8:30 AM – 11 PM.

Ferry riders can also connect to HART’s robust transit network to enjoy the sights and sounds of Busch Gardens, the shopping of International Plaza, and more. The HART Route(s) 8 and 19 are just a short walk from the Cross-Bay Ferry dock.

HART's central transit hub, Marion Transit Center, is located in downtown and provides a connection to roughly 15 HART routes. Riders can use the HART Trip Planner to map out their trip!

To enjoy the free ride, passengers are required to present a same-day Ferry ticket to the bus, trolley or streetcar operator upon boarding. The Cross-Bay Ferry runs from November 1, 2019, through April 22, 2020. The Ferry will operate seven days a week, except for holidays. Please check the schedule on the Cross-Bay Ferry’s website for the latest information.

HART Service Changes Go Into Effect December 2

Service changes go into effect Dec. 2.

As part of our continued commitment to providing ease of access and convenience for patrons, HART is implementing minor service changes effective Sunday, December 2. HART makes regular service adjustments three times a year in response to public feedback and also to improve safety and efficiency. Routes are primarily selected for adjustment based upon demonstrated ridership and input via the customer service database.

The following HART service changes go into effect on Sunday, December 2:

Route and Schedule Adjustments:

• Route 45 is being modified to serve Busch Blvd., between North Blvd. and Florida Ave.
• Routes 60LX and 360LX will no longer serve Westfield Brandon Mall. 
• Route 60LX will be extended to serve Culbreath at Bloomingdale Park-n-Ride.
• Route 360LX is being extended to serve J.C. Handly Park-n-Ride.

Schedule Adjustments:

• The TECO Line Streetcar will have minor "last trip of the night schedule adjustments.

Route 60LX will now operate along U.S. 301 to Bloomingdale Ave., ceasing at the Bloomingdale Park-n-Ride. This will provide the Valrico area with all day limited-stop service to Tampa International Airport and the rest of the HART service network.

Route 360LX will operate along Lumsden Rd. before turning on Kings Ave. (entering the J.C. Handly Park-n-Ride) and looping back on Bloomingdale Ave. and finally Providence Rd.

Riders wishing to connect between routes 60LX or 360LX and routes 37, 46, 75LX, or HARTFlex Brandon should transfer using routes 8 or 31 (at Providence Rd. and Bloomingdale Ave, and at Westfield Brandon Mall).

HART in the Community

HART staff will be out in the community at the Marion Transit Center and Westfield Brandon Mall bus stop over the next two weeks talking to riders about the service changes.

You can view the new route schedules on goHART.org or contact HART customer service at (813) 254-4278 for more information.

HART Launches New "Safe HART" Campaign

As the HART transit systems evolves, so must our programs to keep safety as our number one priority.  

Recently, HART launched a multi-faceted effort involving operations, safety and security, and our communications departments, emphasizing safety through various communication platforms - what we call SAFE (Stay Accident Free Everywhere).

HART is committed to ensuring the safety of our community and continuing the conversation about safe travel, including the potential dangers associated with entering a bus when the doors are closed.

The safety of our customers, operators and the general public remains HART's top priority and an active focus of our services, programs, and initiatives. Part of our ongoing commitment to safe travel in the region includes providing helpful information to emphasize the importance of safety guidelines.

This new "Safe HART" campaign provides a simple, effective way to communicate an important safety message: Ensuring the safety of the traveling public requires a community effort. HART asks its customers and the community to share the important safety message. 

Follow HART on Facebook, Twitter for rider alerts and service information. Use #SafeHART and share helpful safety information.

Help spread the message so that entering the bus when the doors are closed becomes something that we, as a community, don't ever do.

As we work to achieve our mission of taking people to the places that enhance their lives, we do so fully dedicated to safety. It is among the many areas in which we hold ourselves accountable for setting the highest standards.  

We want your experience with HART to be efficient, friendly, and most importantly, SAFE.