Tampa must be doing something right to have so many people move here every year. A recent Reddit thread asked the question, “what is Tampa doing right compared to other major cities?” A lot of people chimed in with their opinions. We thought we would highlight the best ones.
We know that Tampa is not perfect, and really any U.S. city could always use some improvements. But that doesn’t mean Tampa isn’t a great place to live or vacation. Compared to other cities, we seem to be doing a few things right. Now I have not been to every major U.S. city, but a fair share. So I think I can agree with everything the Reddit users have listed.
Recently Creative Loafing put out a survey to their readers. They had nearly 200 responses for the “What Tampa Bay Needs” survey. A Tampa Bay Times journalist even submitted his twelve suggestions that would make Tampa a better place. It included the obvious building of a train/light rail on 275, increasing public parks, building more sidewalks, and more. You can read all the suggestions here.
Related: Residents Agree These 5 Things Are Missing In St. Pete
Although it needs some work, one surprising thing you will find on this list is public transportation. Everyone in the Tampa Bay area seems to agree that we need a better solution for our traffic. Maybe expanding lanes can help short term, but with the overwhelming number of people moving to Tampa, it can only help for so long. Many residents think that the new Howard Frankland Bridge won’t make a bit of a difference when it comes to relieving traffic. The good news is that they are building the bridge to be able to equip a light rail when the time comes.
What Tampa Is Doing Right Compared To Other Major Cities
Excellent Airport
There’s a reason TPA has a cult-like following. It’s because it’s been named one of America’s best airports over and over again. Tampa International Airport is so organized and efficient compared to other airports like MCO (and from my personal experiences) Denver Airport, Phoenix, LAX, etc.
Free/Cheap Public Transport
While Tampa is lacking some major public transport like a light rail, the systems we do have are reliable and fairly affordable. We are forever grateful the TECO streetcar in Downtown Tampa is free to use. Our preferred way of getting around on Lightning game days. Plus, there’s the Pirate Taxi, Cross Bay Ferry, and downtown has the cheap option of the Dash Tesla cabs. Riders are $2 each.
Culture
Tampa is known for it’s diverse population with a lack of segregated areas (besides Hyde Park and Davis Island). From restaurants, to art galleries and museums, Tampa is flooded with all kinds of culture. We are also home to the only trilingual paper in the country.
