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Energy Independence is Top Priority For The Nation

In his State of the Union Address on Tuesday January 31, President Bush committed our nation to promoting energy independence while dramatically improving the environment. Bush went on to say that he has sent the country a comprehensive energy plan to promote energy efficiency and conservation, to develop cleaner technology, and to produce more energy at home.

Bush stated that, “Keeping America competitive requires affordable energy. And here we have a serious problem: America is addicted to oil, which is often imported from unstable parts of the world.”

This is an important point in time for Transportation Demand Management (TDM) professionals. President Bush stated that the nation is “addicted” to oil, and this is an opportunity to increase efforts to expand transportation options.

Perhaps the most significant step the nation could take in reducing oil dependence is to lower the use of the automobile. Of the 20 million barrels or so of oil that the United States consumes each day, 60 percent is used for transportation.

Vanpooling, carpooling, bicycling, walking, transit and telework are all cost-efficient and effective means for lowering oil consumption. Transportation Demand Management measures are an easy way to support the commitment our President made on January 31, 2006.

University Mall Begins Update

This spring, the University Mall will begin its first phase of interior updating. The 32-year old mall has a long-term vision and plan for the future which could include a hotel, three restaurants, a children’s play area and several new retailers.

Plans also include gutting and renovating the interior of the former JC Penny store. The mall is currently negotiating with several new tenants that are first time stores in the Tampa Bay area. Mall General Manger Tom Locke said, "The University Mall will continue to evolve to better serve the needs of our customers.”

The University Mall sits on 95 acres with 1.3 million square feet of leasable space, and served 8.1 million shoppers during 2005.

Governor Bush Announces 2006-2007 Budget
Recommendations for Transportation in Florida

On February 1, Governor Jeb Bush and Lt. Governor Toni Jennings announced the 2006-07 budget recommendations allocating $8.3 billion to transportation services for Florida’s citizens, visitors and businesses. The Bush/Jennings budget includes Implementation of Growth Management Reform and Development of the Strategic Intermodal System.

The proposed work program budget of $7.4 billion includes funds to construct 298 new lane miles, reconstruct and rehabilitate 3,492 existing lane miles, replace 10 bridges and invest $2.6 billion in road building contracts.

For further information regarding transportation planning in Florida, visit www.myflorida.com or http://www.dot.state.fl.us.

NNTA Social Kicks Off New Year

The New North Transportation Alliance held its first January Social at the Yuengling Brewery on January 19. The event brought together transportation professionals, community members and business leaders for an evening of food, drink and networking. On hand were representatives from Hillsborough County, Bay Area Commuter Services and the Center for Urban Transportation Research to provide updates on their current projects and to listen to members from the New North community.

This year NNTA board members will collaborate with the Busch Boulevard and Bruce B. Downs road projects and lead efforts for increasing transportation options in the New North area.

NNTA thanks our local businesses The Olde World Cheese Shop, Panera Bread, Perkin’s Restaurant, The University Mall, and Yuengling Brewery for providing delicious food and drink for the Social.

Want to save money & make better use of your time by carpooling or vanpooling-
but don't know anyone to share the commute with?
We may be able to help! Join the regional rideshare database by following the link on the Commuter page of our website, www.newnorthalliance.org,  or by calling 813-974-9799 to speak with a New North Transportation Alliance representative.