The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) prioritizes state and federal funding for projects in our county. The Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency (TPA) adopts a new TIP each year to reflect the new outer year and any upcoming project changes. While the TIP is adopted annually, the LRTP is updated every 5 years. Both the LRTP and TIP are developed through a collaborative process with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and input from partner agencies as well as the public.
The TIP Development Process
The TIP is built on the foundation of the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), the TPA’s roadmap of transportation project desires over the next 25 years. The LRTP’s cost feasible projects create a pipeline of projects for the TIP. Regionally significant projects are coordinated through FDOT and the Southeast Florida Transportation Council (SEFTC) to align with the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). In addition, the TPA administers an annual local call for projects for the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program that can fund smaller scale local non-motorized transportation projects, including pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements. This approach ensures that a wide range of projects meet the diverse needs of our community.
Drawing from the LRTP Cost Feasible priority projects and the TA Program, each year the TPA creates a List of Priority Projects (LOPP) that provides direction to FDOT on which projects should be programmed and implemented next. FDOT then “balances” available funding over the next five years against federal and state revenue forecasts and cost estimates. New projects from the LOPP are then programmed into the program with any remaining funding, typically in the new “5th year”.
TIP Timeline
The TIP is adopted in June before the beginning of the new Fiscal Year. After that, the process to develop the next year’s TIP begins with the adoption of the LOPP in July, submission of LOPP to FDOT, adoption of FDOT Draft Tentative Work Program (DTWP) in the fall/winter, and then draft TIP in May.
A Sneak Peek at the Current TIP
The TIP includes a variety of projects, covering everything from highways to bus and rail systems, ports, railroads, bicycle and pedestrian pathways, and beautification efforts. It also features key projects along Florida’s Turnpike and I-95. Projects included in the TIP may be in various stages of development, such as planning, design, right-of-way acquisition, or construction.
Upcoming Projects
US 1 Bridge Reconstruction in Jupiter
The Florida Department of Transportation is currently construction the SR 5/US 1 Bridge over the Loxahatchee River/Intracoastal Waterway. The new bridge will feature two 11-foot travel lanes in each direction, along with 8-foot sidewalks and 7-foot bicycle lanes, separated from traffic by permanent concrete barriers. The project is expected to be completed in early 2026.
Lake Worth Road Reconstruction from Raulerson Drive to Palm Beach State College
Currently under construction, this project will introduce the first separated bicycle lanes on an FDOT roadway within Palm Beach County. Designed to improve safety on a high-crash corridor, it will also provide wider sidewalks, a new midblock crossing, and additional safety features, with completion expected in.
Atlantic Avenue Widening from SR 7 to Jog Road
Set to begin construction this year, this project will add two lanes to Atlantic Avenue, enhancing capacity and improving traffic flow, while also incorporating new bicycle facilities and wider pathways.
Lyons Road Separated Bicycle Lanes
Currently under construction, Lyons Road will feature the first separated bicycle lanes on a County roadway in Palm Beach County. Recognized as a TPA Tier 2 Bicycle Network Priority corridor, this project aims to provide a safe north-south bicycle connection from Forest Hill Blvd to Okeechobee Rd., connecting nearby homes, schools, parks, and businesses.
Florida’s Turnpike and I-95 Interchange Improvements
The State has $1.8 Billion invested for Turnpike widenings over the next 5 years, expanding capacity to 10 lanes from the Broward County line to Boynton Beach, and to eight lanes throughout the remainder of Palm Beach County. FDOT is also investing $400 million in capacity enhancements for I-95, focusing on major interchange reconstruction throughout Palm Beach County.
Engaging the Public in Transportation Planning
The TIP is subject to modifications throughout the year to reflect changes in projects, funding, and other considerations. To facilitate this process, the TPA has introduced a new TIP Tool, available at PalmBeachTPA.org/TIP, which allows users to view the 366 projects included in the current FY25-29 TIP, representing a total funding of over $4.3 billion.
Shaping Our Transportation Future Together
The TIP is essential for the growth and development of our local infrastructure. By understanding the TIP, we can collectively contribute to a more efficient and effective transportation network. Stay informed, provide your feedback, and help us shape the future of transportation in Palm Beach County!
