For Immediate Release:
May 26, 2016
Contact: Cory Skeates
(863) 688-8551 Ext. 234
The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Votes to Support the Tampa Bay
Express (TBX) Project
Lakeland, FL – The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted unanimously to
support the Tampa Bay Express (TBX) project and encourages the Hillsborough County Metropolitan
Planning Organization to approve the Transportation Improvement Plan without removing any funding
for TBX or its components.
The Chamber included in their resolution of support recommendations for the FDOT to accelerate the
implementation of managed lane projects in Polk County consistent with the Strategic Intermodal System
Plan and Polk TPO 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan, which includes 6 general purpose lanes + 4
managed lanes on all of Interstate 4 from downtown Tampa to the Polk/Osceola County line.
“Corporate executives and site consultants consistently cite transportation as a key concern when
selecting locations to move and expand businesses. Increased capacity and improved infrastructure
throughout the Tampa Bay region will make Lakeland more attractive to new and expanding businesses,”
said Mike McGee, Chairman of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. “Therefore, it is in the best
interest of our business community to support and encourage an acceleration of managed land projects in
Polk County and the Tampa Bay region.”
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The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce represents 1,400 member businesses in the Greater Lakeland area and
provides opportunities for networking, professional development and advocacy for companies of all sizes. Five-Star
Accredited by the US Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber upholds the following vision and mission statements:
Vision Statement
The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce will be the premier catalyst for the advancement of Lakeland’s economic
growth and enhancement of quality of life – creating Florida’s community of choice.
Mission Statement
The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading organization dedicated to creating a climate where
business can prosper.