Traffic Advisory: SOF Week (May 18-22)
The Special Operations Forces military conference, SOF Week, is returning to the Tampa Convention Center! Drivers, please be prepared for the following road closure, increased traffic, and loud noises in Downtown Tampa.
Franklin Street will be closed outside the Tampa Convention Center from Channelside Drive to Harbour Island (including the Harbour Island Bridge) during the following times:
- Monday, May 18 – Thursday, May 21: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday, May 22: 8:00 AM to 4:00 (Northbound Franklin St., Water St. intersection, and Harbour Island Bridge will reopen at 1pm)
Alternate Route: Please use the Beneficial Drive Bridge (heading toward Sparkman Wharf and The Florida Aquarium).
Peak congestion levels are expected Monday through Wednesday. Please allow for extra travel time.
Parking Garage Closure: Please note, the Tampa Convention Center Parking Garage will be closed during SOF Week, from Sunday, May 17 through Thursday, May 21. Drivers can seek alternate parking options at Pam Iorio Parking Garage.
To see the latest road closures that may impact your commute, visit: Tampa.gov/road-closures.
To view the City of Tampa's parking options, visit: Tampa.gov/parking
Military Demonstration
Please be aware that the USSOCOM Capability Demonstration will take place on Wednesday, May 20 from noon to 1pm.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, you may hear loud noises along the waterfront as special operations teams perform this simulation.
Marina Restrictions: The marina basin adjacent to the Tampa Convention Center will be closed to all boat traffic Tuesday through Thursday (May 19–21) from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM during demonstrations.
Tampa Tradition
SOF Week has been held at the Tampa Convention Center for over a decade, bringing together more than 19,000 international special operations personnel and military leaders to our city. This year’s event is expected to generate an estimated economic impact of $19,108,310 to the City of Tampa and the surrounding region.
Please note, the Tampa Convention Center, including the FedEx strore inside the center, will be closed to the public during SOF Week.
Media Inquiries
Media interested in covering SOF Week 2026 should contact Lakesha Cole at lakesha.cole@teamrecurrent.io. All media members are asked to register at the following link: Register Here.