Consultant appointed for merging Pasco Pinellas and Hillsborough MPOs

The Forward Pinellas Board is making strides towards a potential merger of the three Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough counties. During a recent meeting, officials announced the selection of a consultant to guide the management, legal, and cultural aspects of this significant initiative. While no decisions are expected for at least a year, the groundwork is being laid for a collaborative approach that requires broad regional support.

The consultant's approval is anticipated at the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization meeting on August 11, with a notice to proceed shortly thereafter. Board members are invited to participate in a fact-finding field trip scheduled for October 27, with October 28 as a backup date. This trip aims to foster one-on-one interactions between elected officials from the three counties, allowing for candid discussions and insights into each MPO's operations.

In addition to the merger discussions, the meeting featured a presentation on the new Forward Pinellas Explained StoryMap. This educational tool is designed to clarify the agency's role and functions for new board members, elected officials, and the public. It highlights the agency's history, organizational structure, and key projects, emphasizing the unique planning challenges faced by Pinellas County, the most densely populated county in Florida.

The StoryMap aims to enhance understanding of Forward Pinellas's responsibilities, including long-range planning and intergovernmental coordination, while also addressing critical issues like attainable housing and transportation improvements. As the agency continues to evolve, these initiatives are crucial for fostering informed decision-making and community engagement in the region's planning processes.