The City of Tampa has proudly announced the acquisition of a state-of-the-art paving machine, the Caterpillar AP 1055, which will significantly enhance its road maintenance capabilities. This new addition, paired with the hiring of eight new team members, effectively doubles the city's in-house paving capacity, allowing for faster and more efficient street repairs. The new machine can pave a width of up to 25 feet in a single pass, all while being quieter, more fuel-efficient, and easier to operate than its predecessor. Mayor Jane Castor reaffirmed the city's commitment to addressing residents' concerns regarding road conditions, stating, "We've heard the calls of 'pave my street,' and we're doing just that. " Over the past five years, the Mobility Department has successfully paved more than 167 lane miles, with 36 lane miles completed this year alone, showcasing the department's dedication to improving roadway safety.

The city also plans to implement Quick Build Projects, focusing on enhancements like new bike lanes and improved drainage. To further engage the community, a naming contest for the new paving machine has been launched, encouraging residents to contribute their ideas. With this initiative, the City of Tampa aims to enhance the quality of its streets while saving taxpayer money.