Route 275LX provides regional connectivity between Hillsborough and Pasco counties
TAMPA, Fla. - The launch of the Route 275LX on July 1, marks a milestone in local transportation, with the region's first seven-day-a-week intercounty route. The limited-stop service will operate hourly, between Wesley Chapel and Tampa International Airport, with additional stops in New Tampa, the university area, and downtown Tampa. Service hours for the Route 275LX will be Monday-Sunday, from 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
The launch of the Route 275LX offers residents, businesses, and visitors, more accessible, cost-effective transportation access between Hillsborough and Pasco counties.
HART's Route 275LX schedule will connect with Pasco County Public Transportation's (PCPT) Route 54 at the Wiregrass Park-n-Ride traveling both east to Trinity/New Port Richey and west to Zephyrhills.
"This is another milestone moment for HART," said HART Interim CEO Jeff Seward. "An effective and accessible public transportation system is critical to enhancing mobility, supporting commerce, and improving the vitality of our community. The new route 275LX, coupled with Route 54 in Pasco County, is another example of HART's commitment to providing safe and reliable transportation options to the residents of Hillsborough and Pasco Counties."
HART's newest service enhancement also provides another viable travel option to and from Tampa International Airport. Customers can give up the steering wheel, and stay connected with free Wi-Fi, for only $2 one-way; $4 for the entire day. The 275LX will connect with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority's 300X at the airport's Rental Car Center, for service to Largo and St. Petersburg.
"The airport continues to grow, with a record number of passengers expected this year and more than 10,000 people working on the airport campus," said Joe Lopano, Tampa International Airport CEO. "Easy access for employees and travelers from throughout the entire region is essential for us to accomplish our mission as an economic engine for the Tampa Bay area. The bus service from Pasco County is an important step in addressing that access issue. Many thanks to HART and the Florida Department of Transportation for making it happen. We look forward to continued partnerships."
To further facilitate seamless travel, both HART and PCPT will rollout Flamingo Fares later this year. Flamingo Fares will allow a customer to pay their fare via a smart card or smartphone app, and travel between five Tampa Bay area transit systems on one fare.
In the short term, HART and PCPT will allow customers to travel between the Route 275LX and Route 54 on either a valid HART or PCPT pass.
"The 275LX will provide needed access and give citizens the ability to utilize and enjoy the many services and opportunities in the Pasco and Tampa Bay areas," explains Pasco County Public Transportation Director Kurt Scheible. "Pasco County citizens will be able to ride Pasco County Public Transportation to the park-n-ride in Wesley Chapel, board the Route 275LX and connect to the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa International Airport, and all the sights and services of Tampa Bay via the many connections provided by HART. The ability to travel freely between the two counties, avoid traffic and parking hassles, while enjoying free Wi-Fi, makes the new route a great benefit for both counties."
The Route 275LX is funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) as a part of the Urban Corridor Project.
