FDOT Funding to Keep HART's TECO Streetcar Line Fare Free

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) awarded the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) a Commuter Assistance grant totaling $700,000. The FDOT grant will permit the TECO Line Streetcar to remain fare-free for an additional year.

The TECO Line Streetcar has routinely broken ridership records since FDOT awarded HART a $2.7 million Innovation Grant in 2018 allowing the streetcar to go fare-free and expand service — increased frequency and service hours.

"HART is very excited to receive this FDOT grant to keep the TECO Line Streetcar fare-free," said Interim HART CEO Scott Drainville. "HART appreciates the continued support of Secretary Gwynn and FDOT staff in identifying grant funding for the Streetcar."

Additional Funding Needed to Extend Program

In addition to FDOT, the TECO Line Streetcar is funded by the City of Tampa, the Downtown Community Redevelopment Areas (CRAs), and the Tampa Downtown Partnership.

HART will work with the partners to hopefully identify funding to keep the streetcar fare-free for the foreseeable future, according to the agency.

The TECO Line Streetcar System has carried 1,249,511 trips so far in FY2023.