TAMPA, Fla — Whether you’re new to the Tampa Bay area or a longtime resident, local leaders are finding more people are taking advantage of alternative transit options. Things like the Cross Bay Ferry or the Streetcar are breaking records for ridership.
Last year, 53,544 passengers rode the Cross Bay Ferry. Its why local leaders are working to turn the seasonal ferry into a year-round service.
It’s a congestion proof “Florida Style” transit option between Tampa and St. Pete. Offering a nice few of the bay for riders looking to shop, eat at restaurants, go to museums, events and more.
Other travel option people more people are taking advantage of is the free streetcar. The TECO Streetcar Line running through downtown Tampa also broke ridership records this year making it the second busiest streetcar in the nation, behind the Kansas City streetcar.
While the City of Tampa says its mainly used by tourists, ridership increases during downtown events like Lightning Games.
Other transit options people are using more of include City bike rentals and e-scooters. In the city of Tampa alone, e-scooters have logged more than 3 million miles.
It shows people are interested in using different transit options to get out. It beats filling up a gas tank, and it’s an easy way to get around, enjoy time with others and be social.