Florida Construction News staff writer
The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) has approved a $362 million plan to expand the southern section of the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, marking the agency’s largest investment since completion of the Selmon West Extension in 2021.
Archer Western Construction, LLC was awarded the contract following a competitive bid process and the THEA Board of Directors’ approval on Monday.
The South Selmon Capacity Project will add one lane in each direction along a 4.5-mile stretch of the expressway from the Selmon West Extension into downtown Tampa. The project also includes modernization of 26 bridges — among them a redesigned signature span over the Hillsborough River — that will serve as a new gateway to the city.
“The South Selmon Capacity Project reflects THEA’s commitment to building infrastructure that serves people first,” said Greg Slater, CEO and executive director of THEA. “Our neighbors told us they wanted noise walls, safer pedestrian connections, and improved underpasses, and this project delivers on those priorities while providing more reliable travel for everyone who uses the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway.”
Community input played a central role in the planning process. In response, THEA will add noise barriers near residential areas and transform underpasses with improved lighting, landscaping, and safer walkways. The Bay-to-Bay/MacDill Avenue underpass will be converted into a dog park and public gathering space.
“Selecting a contractor is a major milestone in bringing this vision to life,” said Vince Cassidy, chair of the THEA Board of Directors. “This is a $362 million commitment to regional mobility and neighborhood quality of life, ensuring the Selmon Expressway remains a reliable and safe backbone for Tampa Bay as our region continues to grow.”
The project also includes Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to allow real-time traffic monitoring and faster response to incidents.
Construction is set to begin in March 2026 and finish in 2030, funded entirely through THEA toll revenue.
For more information, visit southselmoncapacity.com.
