Forward Pinellas Work Session & Board Meeting 9-9-26

The Forward Pinellas Work Session and Board Meeting held on September 9, 2026, focused extensively on the proposed merger of the three metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) serving Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough counties. Key procurement-related discussions included the draft deliverables for the merger, such as bylaws, organizational structure, staffing plans, and estimated startup and operational costs. The board reviewed a proposed organizational chart with approximately 37 full-time equivalents, funded primarily by federal dollars, and discussed the need for local matching funds estimated at 55 cents per capita. The meeting also covered the approval process for the merger, including the role of the governor and the need for consensus among the counties and the city of Tampa. Additionally, the board approved a transportation improvement program (TIP) roll-forward amendment to maintain funding for ongoing projects. Other procurement topics included a $50,000 grant awarded to PSTA from the Uber Transit Innovation Fund, contract approvals for commuter advertising and state advocacy services, and discussions on funding and operational impacts related to Amendment 3. The meeting also addressed policy considerations for data centers, including forming a working group to develop countywide policies amid public concerns about environmental and infrastructure impacts. Finally, the board accepted a corridor study for Roosevelt Boulevard with recommendations for transit and infrastructure improvements, and approved consensus recommendations for countywide plan amendments to streamline processes and enhance flexibility. No votes were taken on the merger itself, but feedback was solicited for further refinement before final approvals.