Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority - 60 Years Proudly Serving Tampa Bay
Since 1963, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) has been a vital part of our vibrant city, connecting us to our destinations quickly, conveniently, and efficiently. This year, THEA celebrates 60 years of progress and the bright future that lies ahead for both the agency and our community.
Created by the Florida State Legislature in 1963 as a state agency, THEA was commissioned to build and operate a toll-financed expressway system to benefit the region, which we know today as the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway. Opening in February 1976, the Expressway connected downtown Tampa with the southwest side of the city at Gandy Boulevard. From 1978 to August 1986, construction continued to expand the highway to connect South Tampa to Interstate 75 in Brandon, a span of 16 miles.
Over the years, THEA has transcended its role as a mere expressway and tolling organization. It consistently strives to exceed expectations by actively engaging with the community, implementing cutting-edge transportation technology, and executing a wide range of construction and community enhancement projects. Noteworthy among these endeavors is the aesthetically pleasing and innovative Selmon Extension, complemented by the award-winning Shop Gandy marketing campaign, specially designed to support local businesses during construction. THEA's reputation within the community is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovative thinking and meticulous attention to detail in every facet of its operations. At the core of THEA's achievements is its steadfast dedication to placing the community's needs at the forefront of every decision it makes.
THEA's portfolio boasts standout projects, including the THEA Connected Vehicle Program, the Selmon Extension, REL Slip Ramps, and community enhancements such as the Kotfila Memorial Dog Park and Selmon Greenway. Each of these initiatives underscores THEA's commitment to its community and its forward-thinking approach. As it has done over the past six decades, THEA will persist in driving innovation into the future, steadfast in its commitment to serving customers and the community while efficiently connecting people and places both above and below the roadway. Operating without the need for tax dollars and reinvesting 100% of its revenues back into the communities it serves, THEA will undoubtedly continue to reach significant milestones. These achievements will be made possible through collaborative partnerships with the public, as THEA collectively seeks and implements cutting-edge transportation solutions that address the region's ongoing growth and development.
Created by the Florida State Legislature in 1963 as a state agency, THEA was commissioned to build and operate a toll-financed expressway system to benefit the region, which we know today as the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway. Opening in February 1976, the Expressway connected downtown Tampa with the southwest side of the city at Gandy Boulevard. From 1978 to August 1986, construction continued to expand the highway to connect South Tampa to Interstate 75 in Brandon, a span of 16 miles.
Over the years, THEA has transcended its role as a mere expressway and tolling organization. It consistently strives to exceed expectations by actively engaging with the community, implementing cutting-edge transportation technology, and executing a wide range of construction and community enhancement projects. Noteworthy among these endeavors is the aesthetically pleasing and innovative Selmon Extension, complemented by the award-winning Shop Gandy marketing campaign, specially designed to support local businesses during construction. THEA's reputation within the community is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovative thinking and meticulous attention to detail in every facet of its operations. At the core of THEA's achievements is its steadfast dedication to placing the community's needs at the forefront of every decision it makes.
THEA's portfolio boasts standout projects, including the THEA Connected Vehicle Program, the Selmon Extension, REL Slip Ramps, and community enhancements such as the Kotfila Memorial Dog Park and Selmon Greenway. Each of these initiatives underscores THEA's commitment to its community and its forward-thinking approach. As it has done over the past six decades, THEA will persist in driving innovation into the future, steadfast in its commitment to serving customers and the community while efficiently connecting people and places both above and below the roadway. Operating without the need for tax dollars and reinvesting 100% of its revenues back into the communities it serves, THEA will undoubtedly continue to reach significant milestones. These achievements will be made possible through collaborative partnerships with the public, as THEA collectively seeks and implements cutting-edge transportation solutions that address the region's ongoing growth and development.
