 Traffic congestion and construction delays have become a way of life for Tampa Bay commuters. Transportation planners are promoting a new project for West-Central Florida: a proposed beltway which would begin in Manatee County, head through Eastern Hillsborough, bypassing Tampa then turn west into Pasco County. The beltway would be among the most ambitious and costly road construction projects ever attempted in the region. Some critics suggest we should pursue mass transit, light rail and other alternative modes of transportation instead. Can Tampa Bay pave its way out of gridlock? (Photo credit: Tampa Tribune)
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New technologies designed to keep motorists up to date with "real-time" traffic conditions are being in tested here in Tampa Bay. These services could be another tool in a motorist's quest for best way around town. 
Transportation planners insist it's time to start thinking regionally. The alternative, they say, is gridlock within 20 years. Florida Matters examines the future of transportation for Tampa Bay. 
A new beltway planned to run east of Tampa could mean less traffic on local highways. But would it only be a temporary solution to clogged highways? 
