TMA leadership OKs top-ranked consultant to study merger of Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough MPOs

Representatives from the region’s MPOs told Forward Pinellas on June 9 that the Transportation Management Area Leadership Group recommended contracting with the top-ranked consultant to assist in discussions and public engagement related to a potential merger of the Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough metropolitan planning organizations.

The recommendation matters because an MPO merger could change governance, funding formulas and planning responsibilities across the Tampa Bay region, prompting broad public and municipal interest in the coming year.

The TMA leadership group recommended the White House group as the top-ranked consultant and noted Hillsborough’s Transportation Planning Organization will act as the procuring agency; funding for the contract will come from federal sources administered through FDOT. The group also authorized use of a ranked-firm list so a fallback vendor is available if negotiations with the top-ranked firm are unsuccessful. Board members said they expect a contract to be in place by July or August and that consultant-led outreach and scenario work would start quickly thereafter.

Forward Pinellas staff described planned supportive activities: offers to host a field trip for local elected officials to the Orlando MPO region to learn how a multi-county MPO handles small-city representation; and a Federal Highway Administration-supported peer exchange with MPOs that have undergone mergers, expected in early 2026. Executive Director Whit Blanton said staff will brief elected officials and legislative delegation members over the summer and host town halls in each county as the consultant work proceeds.

Next steps: Hillsborough’s TPO is expected to vote on the procurement recommendation; the consultant, if under contract, will begin public engagement and scenario analysis; Forward Pinellas staff will coordinate field trips and a peer exchange and keep the board updated.