Event Recap
From Vision to Action: Tampa Bay RIA Webinar
How do big regional ideas actually move forward? This Tampa Bay Regional Infrastructure Accelerator webinar offers a practical look at how partners across the region are working together to turn long-range vision into real progress.
Moderated by Garrett Greco of the Tampa Bay Developer, the conversation features Bemetra Simmons of the Tampa Bay Partnership, along with Gina Dew and Kristof van Winden of the Tampa Bay RIA Office. The session highlights the collaborative foundation of the program and includes the announcement of a set of priority projects selected for further advancement.
Speakers also explore how coordinated planning, strong partnerships, and creative funding and delivery approaches can help move complex, multi-jurisdictional efforts from concept to implementation. You’ll come away with a clearer sense of how Tampa Bay is building momentum and what it takes to turn shared vision into action.
Tampa Bay Regional Infrastructure Accelerator Kick-Off
Held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Tampa International Airport
The Tampa Bay Regional Infrastructure Accelerator (RIA) launched with a successful kick-off event that brought together leaders from across the region to shape the future of infrastructure, innovation, and investment in the Tampa Bay region.
The event convened local elected officials, transportation experts, community stakeholders, and federal partners, all united in their commitment to advancing projects that enhance mobility, strengthen resilience, and drive economic growth across the region.
Event highlights included:
- Opening remarks from City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens, and Tampa Bay Partnership CEO Bemetra Simmons, and Build America Bureau Dr. Morteza Farajian who outlined the mission of the RIA and its role in connecting the region with federal resources and technical support.
- The RIA Team session, where regional leaders and industry experts shared insights on collaboration opportunities, funding pathways, and the importance of equity in infrastructure planning.
- Networking and dialogue among stakeholders to build momentum around key projects shaping Tampa Bay’s future.
The enthusiasm in the room underscored the region’s readiness to work together on transformative infrastructure solutions. This launch marks the beginning of a multi-year effort to accelerate project delivery, strengthen partnerships, and establish Tampa Bay as a leader in innovative infrastructure development.
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Stay tuned for upcoming initiatives, opportunities to engage, and progress updates on projects driving the Tampa Bay Region forward.