PSTA Completes 100% Installation of Safety Shields on Bus Fleet
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2020
PSTA Completes 100% Installation of Safety Shields on Bus Fleet
St. Petersburg, Fla – The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has announced the completion of installing bus driver safety shields. A total of 202 buses are now equipped with protective barriers (see attached photos).
“I am thankful for the hard work so many people did in order to complete this critical investment to keep both our drivers and riders in our care safe,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “During these difficult times, these shields also provide another layer of security for our operators, in which we are also grateful for.”
“Our bus drivers deserve the right to feel safe at work. These are parents, spouses, grandparents. They want to come in to do their jobs and make it home to their loved ones,” said Joe Barkley, PSTA Board Chair. “These shields not only will help provide a peace of mind, but also an added layer of security to make sure that they get home each night.”
In 2019, the PSTA Board of Directors unanimously voted to approve $1.2 million in funding for the project. The barriers are paid for by PSTA’s capital reserve fund. PSTA was one of the first agencies in the Tampa Bay region to install safety barriers.
###
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
E: Sweaver@psta.net
PSTA: The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is the public transit provider for Pinellas County, providing more than 12.1 million rides per year. PSTA operates 40 bus and trolley routes with a fleet of 210 vehicles.