Hillsborough County is seeking input from University Area residents concerning a new safety plan aimed at enhancing the safety measures on East 131st Avenue, notorious for its hazardous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. Home to a significant volume of foot traffic, bikes, and cut-through drivers shuttling from Nebraska Avenue to Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, this corridor has been witness to 128 injury or fatality crashes, including 16 that involved those on foot or riding bicycles.
An online engagement is open through next Tuesday, inviting the community to review and comment on the proposed changes, which insert features such as raised crosswalks and rectangular rapid flashing beacons. These additions are hoped to slow down the traffic and increase the visibility of all road users. According to Hillsborough County Public Works, the corridor safety improvements are designed to manage speeds and enhance multimodal safety.
Details on the planned improvements were disclosed by the County and they involve a variety of modifications. These changes range from bicycle, pedestrian, and transit access improvements to intersection safety enhancements, including a raised intersection at 19th Street. There's also a push for multiple mid-block raised pedestrian crossings with rapid flashing beacon warning lights, situated to conveniently align with HART transit stops, and the introduction of shared bicycle lanes.
With the aim of boosting safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists — and to facilitate better bus service accommodations — the initiative carries a budget of $3.3 million. Currently in the design phase, the expected completion date for the project is 2027. For more details, residents are encouraged to reach out to Public Works Customer Service at (813) 635-5400 or by email at [email protected].
