Mass Transit Missing from Plan

A task force will ask county commissioners today to spend an extra $500 million on transportation over five years. But almost all of that money will go toward widening roads.

Less than a tenth of the total amount - $40 million - would be used to create a 'bus rapid transit' system. That would ease the way for buses to travel on Florida and Fletcher Avenues in Tampa. And even less would be used to begin buying right of way for a possible light rail system.

Later this year, the task force will ask for another $1.5 billion on long-term projects, which could include a light rail line.