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TPO board approves TIP amendment to add interstate wrong‑way detection systems
Summary
Hillsborough County TPO board unanimously approved a Transportation Improvement Program amendment to fund wrong‑way vehicle detection systems at multiple interstate ramp locations, moving $2 million from FY2025 to FY2026 and adding roughly $28,000 for design and environmental work.
The Hillsborough County Transportation Planning Organization board voted unanimously to approve a FY2025–2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) amendment to add wrong‑way vehicle detection systems at six interstate ramp locations and to shift funding between fiscal years.
The amendment, presented by TPO staffer Connor Trejos McDonald, moves $2,000,000 from fiscal year 2025 into fiscal year 2026 and adds approximately $28,000 in design and environmental funds for FY2025. McDonald described the systems as detection cameras and radar, two dynamic LED sign sets, and automated alerts to the traffic management center and law enforcement when a vehicle is detected traveling the wrong way on an exit ramp.
TPO staff and presenters said the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) requires at least two sets of static wrong‑way signs on freeway exit ramps and that District 7 began implementing detection systems in February. McDonald said District 7 recorded 119 confirmed wrong‑way incidents between June 2023 and 2024; staff noted many detections result in the driver correcting without a crash. FDOT countermeasures cited by staff include detection, enhanced signage, dynamic message signs and coordinated alerts to the Florida Highway Patrol and traffic management centers.
Board members who spoke supported the amendment as a safety investment. Board member Slater described repeated high‑severity incidents on reversible facilities and praised the technology and FDOT’s standardized design. Council member Maniscalco and others said additional detection and consistent statewide implementation could prevent severe crashes. Council member Hertek asked whether education targeted at older drivers was part of the effort; staff said FDOT conducts education and that tourists and impaired drivers are also common contributors. Commissioner Myers asked whether alerts go to law enforcement; staff confirmed the system automatically notifies the traffic management center and the Florida Highway Patrol and that those centers share camera feeds.
McDonald recommended approval by roll call. Council member Maniscalco moved the amendment, Mr. Stevens seconded, and the board approved the amendment by roll call vote 15–0.
Board discussion also noted that FDOT’s systems capture images and provide automated location alerts that can be relayed to dynamic message signs, and that SunGuide/TMC operators and Florida Highway Patrol staff monitor the same camera feeds. Staff said the technology can be integrated with connected‑vehicle notifications during pilot programs to alert motorists in their vehicles.
The board packet and staff presentation described the item as a major scope change to the TIP and included an example photo of an implemented wrong‑way detection installation.
The TPO will proceed with the TIP amendment as approved; staff will coordinate with FDOT and the traffic management center on implementation details and scheduling.
