NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsOctober 28, 2026Hillsborough County
City leaders expect delayed New Tampa road connection to open by November
Photo: ABC Action News (WFTS) — News
City leaders report that a delayed road connection on K-Bar Ranch Parkway in New Tampa is expected to open by the end of November. The roadway closure has contributed to prolonged emergency response times and resident frustration amid rapid housing development.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
Residents in New Tampa experience emergency response times averaging around 10 minutes while roadway construction connecting to Morris Bridge Road remains stalled.
Key Facts
- A road cut-through on K-Bar Ranch Parkway in New Tampa has been closed for months due to repeated delays.
- City leaders expect the roadway connection to Morris Bridge Road to open by the end of November.
- Over 200 homes have been built in the area within a span of roughly two years, outpacing local infrastructure.
- Fire stations in New Tampa (including stations 20, 21, 22, and 23) average around 10 minutes to respond to calls.
- The Tampa Firefighters Union states that the goal for all fire crews should be four minutes or less.
- Google Maps data indicates it takes about 17 minutes to travel from one side of the construction project to the other.
- Locals report that traffic accidents in the junction can cause traffic jams lasting 20 to 30 minutes.
- The Tampa Firefighters Union advocates for an additional fire station in K-Bar Ranch, more firefighters, and more response units.
Who's Mentioned
locationK-Bar Ranch Parkway“Roadway where a cut-through project has been delayed.”PersonRaj Anbu“New Tampa resident who discussed emergency response times and traffic jams.”PersonRobert Rodriguez“New Tampa resident and electrician who commented on neighborhood growth and road”locationMorris Bridge Road“Roadway that the K-Bar Ranch Parkway project connects drivers to.”locationCross Creek“Location of a local fire station.”locationNew Tampa“Area experiencing rapid housing growth and slow emergency response times.”PersonNick Stocco“President of the Tampa Firefighters Union who commented on response time goals.”