TAMPA, Fla. — Construction is now underway on new bikeways in Tampa, along Central and Ola Avenues.
The goal is to improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians as the streets get busier.
When Billy Dobbins gets around Tampa, he tries to do so on his bike as much as he can.
“Biking in Tampa can be a bit of an adventure,” Dobbins said. “All it takes is one driver not paying attention to hit me.”
But he’s encouraged by recent investments by Hillsborough County and the city of Tampa to improve bike safety.
The latest is a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) project that is building bikeways along Central and Ola Avenues.
It’s on more than four miles that connect Seminole Heights to the Tampa Riverwalk area.
The roads will be restriped to add new bike lanes marked by sharrows.
Dobbins says that will help, though he still has some concerns.
“Even I am nervous with just a painted line between me and cars,” Dobbins said.
However, the project adds other safety elements to help bicyclists.
That includes new speed cushions, 4-way stops, lighting and curb improvements.
It also includes new crosswalks and flashing beacons for pedestrians.
Construction started in September and is expected to be wrapped up in the spring of 2026.
Dobbins is hopeful it will encourage more folks to bike in the city.
“I want a project like this to create more accessibility for other folks to get into biking and create alternative commuting methods instead of just taking a car,” Dobbins said.