Updated Operating Hours for the Selmon Expressway’s Reversible Express Lanes (REL)

Whether you’re a daily commuter heading into downtown Tampa or a weekend traveler making your way toward Brandon, we have some important news to share. To help streamline your drive and keep traffic flowing smoothly, the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) has officially updated the operating hours for the Reversible Express Lanes (REL).

The REL has been a game-changer for our region. It was the first facility of its kind to address urban congestion by combining innovations in concrete segmental bridges, reversible express lanes, and all-electronic tolling.

To better serve our growing region, we are simplifying the way the lanes operate. We are eliminating the mid-day split operation and moving to a two-direction model only: morning westbound and afternoon/overnight eastbound. This change is designed to reduce confusion and maximize efficiency during the busiest parts of your day.

The New Schedule at a Glance

Starting in July, here is what you can expect when you hit the lanes:

Monday through Friday (Weekdays)
  • 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Westbound towards Downtown Tampa (Morning Commute).
  • 12:00 PM – 5:00 AM: Eastbound towards Brandon (Evening Commute and Overnight).
Weekends & Holidays

The REL will remain eastbound (no reversal) toward Brandon all day on weekends and during the following major holidays:

  • Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
  • Thanksgiving Day & the following Friday
  • New Year’s Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day

Other Holidays: For MLK Day, Good Friday, Juneteenth, and Veterans Day, the REL will operate on its regular reversal schedule.

THEA may adjust the reversal times based on traffic conditions, maintenance, or special events.

Why the Change?

As Tampa continues to grow, so does the demand on our infrastructure. By moving to this streamlined two-direction model, THEA is ensuring that the Selmon Expressway remains the most efficient route for our customers. Removing the mid-day split allows for a more predictable schedule for everyone on the road.