Spark is finally here—check out these incredible businesses PSTA has partnered with and receive special deals with the Spark Lightning Card!

What is the Spark Lightning Card?

The Spark Lightning Card is a physical card distributed to riders on Spark’s launch day and throughout launch week. This stylishly branded card will unlock discounts or special deals at participating Spark businesses along the route and within St. Petersburg.

Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe

2927 Central Ave, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe is a neighborhood, social establishment, and market dedicated to the education and enjoyment of craft beer, wine, and locally sourced deli offerings.

Visit Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe with your Lightning Card and receive 15% off your purchase!

Cthulhu Tattoo & Body Piercing

2723 Central Ave, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Cthulhu Tattoo & Body Piercing’s talented artists and designers specialize in all styles of tattoos, all styles of piercing, and all without the attitude you may encounter at other studios.

Stop in at Cthulhu Tattoo & Body Piercing and show them your Lightning Card to receive 20% off your tattoo or piercing!

Bandit Coffee Co.

2662 Central Ave, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Bandit Coffee Co. is a minimalist-chic cafe serving lattes, pour-overs, and other drinks brewed from single-origin roasts.

Place an online order with Bandit and use code “RIDESPARK” to get 10% off at checkout for first-time online ordering customers. (Not available for in-café orders. Offer valid until 1/26/2026.)

Storage Club

4351 34th St S, St. Petersburg

Website | Facebook

Storage Club provides a wide range of storage unit sizes, including climate-controlled options, to protect your belongings from Florida’s heat and humidity, with advanced security features and convenient online rental and management tools.

When you join Storage Club, show your Lightning Card to get 75% off 2 months of storage!

Pour and Decor

2210 Central Ave, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Whether you’re craving a perfect cup of Mazzaro’s Italian coffee or seeking inspiration for your home, Pour and Decor’s doors are open, and their team is ready to make your visit a memorable one.

Visit Pour and Decor with your Lightning Card and receive 15% off the whole shop!

Sur Club Apartments

3301 32nd Ave S, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Discover a life of ease and elegance at Sur Club Apartments, where every day feels like a vacation. Inspired by the golden age of luxury travel, Sur Club features high-end finishes, glamorous amenities, and a five-level parking garage conveniently adjacent to I-275.

Move in at Sur Club Apartments with your Lightning Card and get your application fee waived!

Tombolo Books

2153 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Tombolo Books is an independent bookstore dedicated to promoting the value and pleasure of reading throughout St. Petersburg by offering thoughtful inventory curation, extensive literary knowledge, and excellent customer service.

Swing by Tombolo Books, flash your Lightning Card, and get 10% off your purchase!

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

4775 34th St S, St. Petersburg

Website | Facebook

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s South St. Pete is the best place to eat and watch sports, with big screen TVs, bold flavors, and something for everyone.

Dine at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s with your Lightning Card and get $5 off when you spend $20!

Green Bench Brewing Co.

1133 Baum Ave N, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Whether it is to engage or unplug, be it business or pleasure, Green Bench Brewing Co. is for you. They invite you to visit and enjoy all that our brewery and community have to offer, intentionally brewed for neighbors like you.

Hang out at Green Bench Brewing Co. for a drink, bring your Lightning Card, and enjoy 10% off your tab!

Harbour Thread

40 22nd St S, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Harbour Thread is here to help you find the perfect apparel for your individual style. Not only will they help you find the best fit to wear with confidence, but they’re knowledgeable about the brands they carry, and they’re always excited to share what they know.

Go shopping at Harbour Thread with your Lightning Card and get 20% off one item at checkout (in-person shopping only)!

IHOP

4199 34th St S, St. Petersburg

Website

Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes and other American breakfast & diner fare.

Get some grub at IHOP and, when you flash your Lightning Card, you’ll get $5 off a $20 purchase!

Berlins Doener

4195 34th St S, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Berlins Doener is bringing Germany’s Number one street food, The Döner, to Florida. What is The Döner? In 1972, a Turkish immigrant living in Berlin, Germany, began to sell The Döner. The Germans added their own twist to it, and as a resul,t today in Germany, an estimated 720 million are sold each year.

Chow down on some Dönes with your Lightning Card and enjoy 5% off your entire order!

Bright Ice Scoop Shop

3701 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Bright Ice Scoop Shop’s super-premium ice cream is like a little bit of sunshine in every bite. They strive for bold, intense flavor profiles using natural ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible.

Swing by for a sweet treat at Bright Ice Scoop Shop, show your Lightning Card, and enjoy 15% off ice cream scoops!

Gateway Subs

3112 3rd Ave N Unit B, St. Petersburg

Website | Instagram | Facebook

They keep it simple: Good food. Great people. Excellent service. Serving up coffee, hoagies, & more!

Grab your next meal at Gateway Subs with your Lightning Card and get 10% off your meal!

In October, PSTA will embark on the largest redesign in the agency’s history, with the goal of improving overall services that optimize ridership and coverage. It’s been a long road to get here, and now we’re just about a month away!

Back in February 2025, we talked about the basics of why PSTA created the Connected Community Bus Network (CCBN) and how we collected community feedback at every stage of the process. This time, we want to spell out all of the improvements we’re making and explain how some of our new services will work.

We know change can be hard. But PSTA’s staff have worked tirelessly to create a system we believe will better serve the community, and we’re ready to guide you through these changes to ensure you understand exactly how our new bus system will benefit you!

High-Level Changes

The biggest changes coming to PSTA’s bus network include higher frequency on popular routes, easier transfers, route variants, and new on-demand zones, as well as the launch of our new premium bus service along 34th St S, called Spark.

Let’s talk about the details!

No-Transfer, One-Seat Rides

PSTA will be introducing timed transfers in downtown St. Pete, Park Street Terminal, and Largo Transit Center to speed up route locations. The following routes will reap the benefits of these timed transfers:

• Route 4: PSTA complex to Skyway Marina
• Route 9: South St Pete to Gateway Mall
• Route 38: Madeira Beach to Downtown St. Pete (partially serving existing Route 68)
• Route 65: Indian Shores to Seminole City Center
• Route 78: Park Street to Northwest Transfer Center (Tampa)

Variant Routes

Variant routes aren’t anything new to PSTA’s bus system. In fact, we currently have routes with variants. For example, Route 4 either stays on 4th Street or heads to Coquina Key—the bus simply conveys this by listing the destination on its headsign above the windshield. CCBN will now make variant routes more apparent by designating them with an A or B after the route number.

This change will not only make route destinations clearer to riders, but also follow transit industry standards that many other agencies use.

The following routes will now have A and B variants:

• Route 4
• Route 9
• Route 18
• Route 52
• Route 59
• Route 74
• Route 78

Frequency Changes

By adjusting the frequency of popular, high-ridership routes, many riders will see more consistent schedules and weekend improvements with 7-day-a-week service on most routes.

The following routes will undergo changes to their frequencies:

• Five routes now running with 20 minutes or less frequency: SunRunner, Spark, 4, 52, & 60
• Route 4 & 9: Sunday frequency improvement from 60 to 30 minutes on Sunday
• Route 52 (from Park Street to Largo Transit Center): Weekday frequency increase from 30 to 15 minutes
• Route 59: Weekday frequency decrease from 15 to 30 minutes
• Route 74: Weekday frequency decrease from 20 to 30 minutes
• Suncoast Beach Trolley & Jolley Trolley: Staggered schedules for 15-minute frequency on Clearwater Beach, 7 days a week
• Route 18 & 34 & 52: 30-minute frequency all day

Route Replacements

A number of today’s routes will now be served by routes of different names. These replacements will streamline many inefficient route paths that are simply past their prime. In order to better visualize these replacements, click here to view our new system map to see what areas these route replacements will serve.  

The following routes will be replaced:

• Route 7: Replaced with Routes 9B & 29
• Route 14: Replaced with Routes 9A, 24, & 49
• Route 15: Replaced with Routes 9A & 66
• Route 23: Replaced with Routes 24 and 66
• Route 32: Replaced with Route 16 in Downtown St Pete
• Route 34: Replaced by the new Spark service
• Route 52LX: Replaced with local service on Routes 49 & 52
• Route 66L: Replaced with Route 91
• Route 68: Replaced with Routes 18, 38, & SCBT
• Route 75: Replaced with Routes 54 & 74B
• Route 76: Replaced with Route 70
• Route 79: Replaced with Routes 49, 66, & SunRunner or CAT
• Route 67 & 812: Replaced with Route 78

Stop Changes

PSTA has a significant number of bus stops—far more than most agencies of our size. A number of our stops experience low ridership and require the expenditure of resources from our Facilities team. Therefore, CCBN provided an opportunity to remove and add bus stops to fully optimize our existing roster of stops.

Click here to view our full list of bus stop additions and removals. Simply click on the route in the table of contents to navigate to the list of stops utilized by that route.

Our New System Map

Now let’s dive into our brand new system map. With so many changes, it was time to overhaul our existing system map and introduce some new symbols and colors to represent all the changes we’re making.

Let’s go through the details found in the map’s legend.

Route Types

Bus routes fall into one of six categories with distinct service types: Premium (20 mins or less), Frequent (29 mins or less), Local (30–59 mins), Community (60+ mins), Limited, and Trolley. 

Each of these types is notated by a shape and color—for example, Frequent routes are pink with a circle around the route number on the map. These colors and shapes denote the frequency, thus making it easier to very quickly understand which routes are most frequent compared to others.

Other services, such as Ferries, Direct Connect locations, and On-Demand Zones (don’t worry, we’ll explain those in a bit), also have their own symbols on the system map.

Variant routes are indicated on the map, with A variants shown as long dashed lines and B variants shown as short dashed lines.

Check out all the new individual route schedules and start planning your trip by clicking here. 

New Services

As part of the new system redesign, PSTA is also launching two new services—Spark, a premium bus service running from Eckerd College to Grand Central Station, and Snapper, two On-Demand Zones in Clearwater and Safety Harbor.

Spark

Spark is a new premium, high-frequency bus service running along 34th St S between Eckerd College and Grand Central Station. The service will improve connections to the SunRunner for students, teachers, and faculty members at Eckerd College, which can take folks into the heart of Downtown St. Pete or to the sunny beaches of St. Pete Beach.

With this service stopping in Grand Central Station, riders can connect from the southernmost part of Pinellas to anywhere else in the county by transferring to other routes that layover in Grand Central Station.

Some highlights of Spark include:

• 15-minute frequency from 6am–8pm and 30-minute frequency from 5am–6am and 8pm–midnight
• Includes 18 upgraded stations with real-time bus information, shelters, and lighted totems
• Powered by a dedicated sub-fleet of all-electric buses
• Features both cash and cashless fare options for convenient front- or rear-door boarding (cash accepted at front door ONLY)

Snapper

Snapper is PSTA’s new On-Demand family, providing transportation in and out of two special zones in Clearwater and Safety Harbor.

Snapper Clearwater will serve the following area, allowing riders to request a ride anywhere between this zone and Countryside Mall and Park Street Terminal.

Snapper Safety Harbor will serve the following area, allowing riders to request a ride anywhere between this zone and Countryside Mall.

The CCBN Roadmap

CCBN, with all the changes detailed in this blog, will go live on October 26th, 2025. Until then, we will continue adding information to the Connected Community Bus Network landing page as it becomes available. Our Outreach team will be out at the transfer centers and terminals, answering questions and helping riders understand their new commute.

In the coming weeks, Transit app will provide a Network Preview that allows you to plan your trip using our new bus system. Keep an eye on our social media account for updates on when that will become available!

We know big changes can bring uncertainty, but we are committed to helping each and every rider feel confident and informed with our new bus system changes. If you have any specific questions about how CCBN will affect your current favorite routes, email ccbn@psta.net, and a member of our Planning team will be happy to assist you. You can also call our InfoLine at 727-540-1900 for more information.

Living in Florida means that even September still counts as summer. And there’s no better time to plan your beach day without the hassle of traffic or parking. We’ve gathered an exhaustive list of all the amazing businesses you can easily reach by riding the SunRunner, along with handy, step-by-step directions.

Many of these businesses are also still recovering from the destructive 2024 hurricane season, so make sure you give them your love and patronage!

Arts & Entertainment

The exterior of The Beach Theater.

St. Pete Beach Access

4700 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

The best spot to visit St. Pete Beach, directly served by the SunRunner!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Just take a short walk through the parking lot and you’re at the beach!

Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center

4737 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Since 1972, Dolphin Landings has grown to become the top Charter Boat Center in the Tampa Bay Area. What makes us so popular? In a nutshell, our people are the best in the business. It all starts with Captain Dan Peretz, a man who inspires commitment and balance, both on and off the water. Dolphin Landings’ crews are professionals who eagerly perpetuate this philosophy on each and every trip.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and circle around the Publix Plaza—Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center is behind the plaza.

Lido Park

Lido Dr, St. Pete Beach

Relax in this serene two-acre public park, featuring a picnic shelter and playground.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and walk south past the Drunken Clam; Lido Park will be on your left. 

Sunshine City Comedy Club

5501 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Laid-back comedy club featuring headliner stand-up comics (some of whom are local).

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. If you get off at the 55th Avenue North station, Sunshine City Comedy Club is right next to the station. If you get off at the 55th Avenue South station, simply cross Gulf Blvd and find Sunshine City Comedy Club in the Taverna on the Bay shopping plaza.

Beach Escape Game

7340 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

We are the only live Escape Room located on St. Pete Beach! A mainstay of St Pete Beach entertainment since 2014, we are a family-owned business that strives to give our customers an escape room experience to remember. We have 4 exciting escape room challenges with different themes. Do you have what it takes?

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Walk two blocks to Gulf Blvd and take a left. Beach Escape Game will be on your right side of Gulf Blvd in Beach Plaza.

The Beach Theatre

315 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

The Beach Theatre is a historic landmark that was well-loved by the beach community. Since closing its doors in 2012, The Beach Theatre sat vacant and took significant damage from the elements. We are under a total renovation, including a new screen, audio/visual equipment, seats, AC, roof, and everything in between! We are so excited to welcome you to the new Beach Theatre in 2025!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Circle the block to Corey Ave and find the blue and white Beach Theater right next to Natural Comfort Footwear. 

Colonel Michael J. Horan Park

7701 Boca Ciega Dr, St. Pete Beach

Enjoy the view of the Intracoastal Waterway from this beautiful waterfront park. The park is named after Colonel Michael J. Horan, who served as mayor of St. Pete Beach from 1992 to 1996. Enjoy 4.3 acres of beautiful greenery and water views, featuring a boundless playground, picnic pavilion, and eight picnic tables.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Walk northeast up Pasadena Ave to find Colonel Michael J. Horan Park on your left side near the start of the Corey Causeway.

North Beach Windsurfing

419 76th Ave, St. Pete Beach

North Beach Windsurfing has been providing the St. Pete Beach, FL, area with the exhilaration of windsurfing adventures since 1999. Windsurfing classes are taught by expert instructors who specialize in teaching windsurfers of all skill levels. Additionally, our friendly, knowledgeable staff members are passionate about providing customers with everything they need for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Simply walk a block southwest on 75th Ave, turn right on Blind Pass Rd, turn left immediately on 76th Ave, and look for the white building and blue roof of North Beach Windsurfing on your right.

St. Pete Beach Public Library

365 73rd Ave, St. Pete Beach

We provide residents with activities & access to a variety of materials to promote lifelong learning. The collections include books as well as a broad selection of media such as CD Books, DVDs, CD Music, and online access to an extensive collection of e-books and downloadable audio books, magazines, and movies. The Library also checks out ukulele kits and free passes to local museums.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head two blocks southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, then turn right on 73rd Ave. The library will be on the right-hand side.

Fred Held South Pasadena Habitat

2500 Pasadena Avenue South, South Pasadena

From waterfront views to shady picnic spots, Fred Held Park is your neighborhood’s peaceful escape. Come stroll, play, or just take in the view.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Sun Island Dr North or South SunRunner station. The habitat is right there on the water—just look for beautiful trees and serene waterfront views.

Bars & Restaurants

The outside of Taverna on the Bay.

1200 Chophouse

5007 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Intimate steakhouse featuring premium cuts, New American dishes & seafood, plus patio seating.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and take a quick five-minute stroll north on Gulf Blvd. Look for 1200 Chophouse on your right.

Buona Ristorante

Dolphin Village | 4705 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

In March of 2017, Diane and Marco Angelo recognized the potential of this little gem and became its new owners. Faithful to our motto: “We prepare our homemade Italian favorites with care and pride.” We serve fresh homemade Italian dishes, tasty pizzas, great salads, appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts. The combination of high-quality food and attentive service in a clean and comfortable environment transforms many of our first-time guests into loyal customers for life.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and head for the plaza on your left side—you’ll find Buona Ristorante next to Jersey Mike’s.

Café Soleil

Bayside Shops | 5501 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Café Soleil French Bakery and owner Lauren Chezaud bring an international taste to St. Pete Beach. The café offers a wide range of sandwiches, delicious salads, and some of the best pastries you will ever have.  Pair any one of these items with a cappuccino, and it will make the perfect meal.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. If you get off at the 55th Avenue North station, you’re already at the Bayside Shops—just cross the parking lot and enjoy your French treats at Café Soleil. If you get off at the 55th Avenue South station, simply cross Gulf Blvd and take a short stroll northwest up Gulf Blvd to reach Bayside Shops.

Crabby Bill’s

5100 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Welcome to Crabby Bill’s St. Pete Beach—the go-to spot for awesome seafood and chill vibes! Back in ’93, the Loder Family and their buddies, Gary and Tommy, created a place that’s all about fresh, no-frills seafood and family-friendly beachfront hangs. That’s us, a slice of paradise right in the heart of St. Pete Beach, Florida, and part of the Crabby Bill’s Family Brands.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Just take a quick six-minute walk northwest up Gulf Blvd and look for the light blue Crabby Bill’s on your left side, close to the beach.

Indian Bistro

Dolphin Village | 4785 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

We serve the best Indian food at our Indian Bistro. Our chefs use only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients to create authentic and delicious dishes that transport your taste buds straight to India. Our menu has a wide range of options from classic curries to vegetarian dishes and traditional breads. We are especially proud of our curries, which are made with a unique blend of spices and herbs that will leave you wanting more.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Just cross Gulf Blvd and walk to the left side of the Dolphin Village plaza to find Indian Bistro.

MadFish

5200 Gulf Blvd, St. Petersburg

Our chef-driven menu is all about bold flavors and pristine ingredients. From just-caught snapper and scallops to premium steaks grilled to perfection, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. We proudly partner with local fishmongers and farms to bring the best of Florida’s coast straight to your plate.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Head northwest up Gulf Blvd for a short six-minute walk. Look for the super reflective, diner-style building on your left side.

Playa Bowls

Dolphin Village | 4615 Gulf Blvd, Unit 104, St. Pete Beach

The Playa Bowls™ concept is the vision of founders Robert Giuliani & Abby Taylor—both Jersey Shore natives & long-time surfers. They were inspired by chasing summer on surf trips to Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, California & Hawaii. Almost every exotic surf town they visited offered its own unique version of an acai or pitaya bowl. They decided to recreate their favorite recipes with their own twist at home at the Jersey Shore.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Just cross Gulf Blvd and walk to the right side of Dolphin Village to find Playa Bowls.

The Drunken Clam

46 46th Ave, St. Pete Beach

Come enjoy delicious drinks and food at a favorite local spot. We offer fresh steamed clams, steamed shrimp, seared sesame tuna, and steamed mussels, as well as a large variety of sauces and rubs. We are best known for our award-winning Cajun parmesan garlic wings.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and head southeast down Gulf Blvd, and turn left on 46th Ave. Look for the bright coral orange building with teal trim next to Yaki Mono.

Yaki-Mono Japanese Kitchen

4599 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Experience delightful and unexpected Japanese specialties in St. Pete Beach. Yaki-mono is pleased to offer Japanese dishes with flair and distinction, prepared for your enjoyment. We are located on Gulf Boulevard just south of Dolphin Village, with ample on-site parking. Whether you try our cold or hot appetizers, our sumptuous sushi specialties, our hibachi menu, or an Udon rice noodle dish, you’re sure to find something special when you visit Yaki-mono.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Cross Gulf Blvd and head southeast down Gulf Blvd, and look for Yaki-Mono on the left side.

Boulevard Burgers & Tap House

5905 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Experience St. Pete Beach’s best burger! Outdoor or indoor dining, fresh seafood, full liquor bar, local craft brews, live music on the weekends, kids’ menu, private dining, pool table, easy parking, and more.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Head northwest up Gulf Blvd and look for Boulevard Burgers on the right side.

Skidders (SKD) Kitchen and Drinks

5799 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Welcome to SKD, where modern culinary artistry and masterful cocktails meet. Our warm, inviting atmosphere sets the stage for memorable dining experiences, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an exceptional meal.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Head northwest up Gulf Blvd and look for Skidders (SKD) Kitchen and Drinks on the right side.

Snapper’s Sea Grill

5895 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Under the direction of proprietor Daniel Casey, the casual elegance of Snapper’s offers exceptional seafood, in-house aged steaks, and delectable “in-house” made desserts in a big city bistro atmosphere on St. Pete Beach. Long-regarded as the “Gem of St. Pete Beach Restaurants,” Snapper’s features generous portions of fresh-caught seafood straight from the Gulf, exquisite desserts, and the finest, top-quality service you can find. Come savor a restaurant experience like no other at Snapper’s!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Head northwest up Gulf Blvd and look for Skidders (SKD) Kitchen and Drinks on the right side.

Taverna On The Bay

5501 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Experience the finest in Mediterranean & Seafood dining at Taverna On The Bay, whether you visit our restaurant or enjoy our Mediterranean seafood dishes from the comfort of your home. Our authentic Mediterranean and seafood menu and expertly packaged meals are crafted with the same attention to detail as our in-restaurant offerings.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. If you get off at the 55th Avenue North station, you’re already at the Bayside Shops—just cross the parking lot to reach Taverena on the Bay. If you get off at the 55th Avenue South station, simply cross Gulf Blvd and take a short stroll northwest up Gulf Blvd to reach Bayside Shops.

Chill Restaurant & Bar

357 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Chill is an American fusion-style restaurant with a creative menu of delicious dishes using only fresh ingredients. Kim and Ken, owners of Chill Restaurant & Bar, make sure every guest feels like they are part of their community.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head one block southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, then turn right on Corey Ave. Chill Restaurant & Bar will be on the right-hand side—look for the red building.

La Croisette

7401 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

La Croisette was created in 1982 by Mr. and Mrs. Pedaggi, a French couple, who immediately fell in love with the beautiful town of St Pete Beach. La Croisette offers its customers French specialties, delicious croissants, and many pastries.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head one block southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, then turn right on Corey Ave and walk two blocks to find La Croisette on your right side in bright pink and blue.

Mastry’s Brewing Co

7701 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

Avid craft beer fans, co-owners and co-founders Matthew Dahm and Danie Dahm began their own craft beer endeavor with Matthew home-brewing on weekends while Danie worked on her doctorate degree. Today, Matthew and Dr. Danie continue their passion for brewing excellent beer and contributing to the local St. Pete and St. Pete Beach community.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Walk two blocks down Blind Pass Rd and look for Mastry’s Brewing on your right side.

Nori Thai Restaurant

7612 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

Savor the flavor at Nori Thai! Enjoy an amazing variety of homemade Thai dishes, authentic Japanese specialties, and the freshest sushi on the beach. Nori Thai features spacious seating, great lunch specials, and outstanding service. Join us and you’ll be a regular, too.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Walk a block down Blind Pass Rd and look for Nori Thai Restaurant on your left side.

Riptides

7618 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

A casual bar with a friendly vibe featuring darts and pool tables served by helpful barkeeps and bartenders. Come visit and get swept away!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Walk a block down Blind Pass Rd and look for Riptides on your left side, in the same plaza as Nori Thai Restaurant.

Swigwam Beach Bar

336 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Come check out your new favorite bar, with friendly staff, awesome prices, and strong drinks. We have steel tip darts, foosball, a pool table, a Touch Tunes juke box, and an outside patio.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, turn right on Corey Ave, and find the Swigwam Beach Bar in the Upham Building on your left side.

The Helm Seafood Parlour

7736 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

A collaborative market, raw bar, and restaurant joining you with captain, farmer, and chef.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Walk two blocks down Blind Pass Rd and look for The Helm Seafood Parlour on your left side.

Tuttorosso Restaurant & Pizzeria

7863 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

We are a local, family-owned and operated establishment in St. Pete Beach. We offer authentic hand-tossed pizza, stromboli, and calzones made from scratch, as well as a variety of salads, unique southern baked Italian pasta dishes, delicious homemade desserts, wine, and more.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Walk three blocks down Blind Pass Rd and look for Tuttorosso Restaurant & Pizzeria on your right side.

Twisted Tiki Bar & Grill

340 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Looking for some great food and drink on St. Pete Beach? Get ready to experience the tropical vibe at Twisted Tiki Pub and Grille located in the heart of Corey Avenue. Our menu boasts favorites such as a Build Your Own Burger plus wings, local fish spread, a Philly cheesesteak, sliders, salads & more. Our Polynesian-inspired food specials and cocktails, along with our eclectic tiki décor, are your ticket to paradise!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, turn right on Corey Ave, and find the Twisted Tiki Bar & Grill in the Upham Building on your left side.

Health & Beauty

The storefront for Beach Hair Affair.

vIVE Hydration Therapy

5050 Gulf Blvd, Suite B, St. Pete Beach

vIVe Hydration Therapy is a modern wellness spa offering hydration, medication & vitamins administered directly into the bloodstream. This allows for 100% absorption to restore energy & provide relief from dehydration for health and wellness. vIVe offers therapies time-tested and proven in hospitals and emergency rooms, making them easily accessible & more affordable by fully accredited, licensed, and experienced medical staff. Great for Hangover Relief!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Beach Access SunRunner station. Head northwest on Gulf Blvd and take a quick five-minute stroll north on Gulf Blvd. Look for vIVE Hydration Therapy on your left side.

Beach Hair Affair

421 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

At Beach Hair Affair, we offer a wide range of services to meet all of your hair needs. From haircuts and coloring to extensions and treatments, we have you covered. We also offer bridal and special occasion styling to make sure you look your best on your big day.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, turn right on Corey Ave, and walk a block to find the green banner of Beach Hair Affair on the right side.

Gym Grooming Barber Spa

415 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

G.Y.M Grooming BarberSpa is a unique and one-of-a-kind shop in St Pete Beach, located in the heart of Corey Avenue Shopping District, revolutionizing grooming for men. Where men can find an authentic barber experience. G.Y.M Grooming BarberSpa is like no other place you’ve ever gotten your hair cut.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, turn right on Corey Ave, and walk a block to find the green banner of Gym Grooming Barber Spa on the right side.

Hawaii Nail and Spa

263 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Step into paradise every time you walk through our doors. At Hawaii Nail & Spa, we bring the beauty and relaxation of the islands to your everyday routine. From soothing spa pedicures that feel like waves washing over your stress, to stunning manicures that sparkle like sunshine on the ocean, every service is crafted with care and aloha.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Boca Ciega Dr and look for Hawaii Nail and Spa immediately on your left-hand side.

Lenny’s Surf & Cycle

7517 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

Lenny’s Surf Shop and Beach Cyclist & Sports Center is your place to fill all your beach and sports needs!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Look for Lenny’s Surf & Cycle on your right.

The Centre @ St. Pete Beach

7525 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach

Discover holistic approaches, complementary medicine, and empowering interventions for optimal health. Come in and see this unique space for yourself. Share and enjoy our living room and office vibes. Feel at home to be YOU!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southwest down 75th Ave to Blind Pass Rd, then take a right. Look for The Centre @ St. Pete Beach on your right.

Shopping

The interior of Coastal Cottage.

Beach Mart

5297 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Beach Mart is the best spot for swimwear and other beachwear, plus souvenirs and accessories.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast down Gulf Blvd and look for Beach Mart on your left side.

Beach Zone

5501 Gulf Blvd # 100, St. Pete Beach

Retailer of beachwear, swimwear, and casual shoes, plus gifts and souvenirs.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Look for Beach Zone on the east side of Gulf Blvd.

Freaky Tiki Surf Shack

5210 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach

Designed to be unique and independent, we established our first store in sunny Clearwater Beach, Florida. Our team of talented artists develops their original ideas the old-fashioned way. Freaky Tiki’s stylish designs are always silk-screened by hand, directly to the garments by humans.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the 55th Avenue North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast on Gulf Blvd and find Freaky Tiki Surf Shack on your right-hand side.

Coastal Cottage

300 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Light. Airy. Carefree. Simple, yet elegant. That’s the coastal lifestyle. The talented furniture artists at Coastal Cottage know just how to bring our amazing lifestyle indoors. Solid wood, easy to care for. Airloom quality furniture that will stand the test of time, and take a beating from the kids! Beautiful whites, cooling blues, fiery coral, and invigorating greens will bring the beauty and casual lifestyle of living on the coast into your home. Our inventory changes daily, so stop in often. ​

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast down Boca Ciega Dr and turn right on Corey Avenue. Coastal Cottage will be on the left side of the street.

Corey Avenue Sunday Market

398-300 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Join us every Sunday morning, all year long, for the Corey Ave Sunday Market on St. Pete Beach. We host about 100 vendors every weekend – including fresh produce, baked goods, clothing, jewelry, art, home décor, gifts, souvenirs, and so much more. Plus food trucks and multiple vendors will be serving refreshments, breakfast, brunch, lunch, and desserts. The market hours will be from 10:00am to 2:00pm every Sunday!

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach on Sunday mornings and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head southeast down Boca Ciega Dr and turn right on Corey Avenue. You can’t miss the market!

Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware

320 75th Ave, St. Pete Beach

Crowder Bros. ACE Hardware has been family-owned and operated since 1955. Offering top-quality products from the most trusted brands in hardware, paint, camping, outdoors, sunglasses, and more.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. You’ll find Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware right outside of the Boca Ciega Dr South SunRunner station.

Jojo’s Boutique

371 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Clothing boutique on Corey Avenue featuring trendy apparel, dresses, and accessories.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head one block southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, then turn right on Corey Ave. Jojo’s Boutique will be on the right-hand side at the very end of the block.

Natural Comfort Footwear

341 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach

Selling quality footwear and clothing for everyday use.

How to Get There

Take the SunRunner to the beach and get off at the Boca Ciega Dr North or South SunRunner station. Head one block southeast on Boca Ciega Dr, then turn right on Corey Ave. Natural Comfort Footwear will be on the right side of the street, right past the Beach Theater.

PSTA’s Universal Pass program is helping schools and organizations in our community provide free transportation for students, employees, and neighbors!

PSTA prides itself on being an active member of the community, and nowhere is that more evident than with our Universal Pass program, also known as “UPASS.” Through the UPASS program, schools, hotels, and employers can partner with PSTA to provide free transportation to their students and employees.

With the recent additions of Orlando Health and The Hiatus Hotel, we wanted to take this opportunity to highlight the UPASS program. We’ll explore the program’s early beginnings and, most importantly, how it’s helped expand transportation options for students, teachers, employees, and tourists.

A student boards a PSTA bus and shows the operator their school ID to ride free through the UPASS program.

An Idea Becomes a Successful Reality

In the early 2010s, PSTA leaders began brainstorming ways to improve the agency’s service to the community, particularly those with a daily commute. Students and employees were already frequent riders on PSTA’s buses and trolleys. Thus, PSTA saw an opportunity to better support schools and businesses—what if the agency partnered directly with schools and employers to provide free fares to their students and employees?

The idea was simple: an organization pays PSTA a yearly fee that covers fares for their members, allowing them to ride fare-free by showing their participating ID to the bus operator. Everyone involved benefits!

By 2014, the fine details of the program had been developed, and the very first UPASS contract was signed with the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP), allowing free rides for all students, faculty, and staff. Soon after, St. Petersburg College (SPC) would join. That same year, Tradewinds would become PSTA’s first hotel partner.

Business Partnership Specialist Marvin “Joe” Joseph educates SPC students about the UPASS program.

Over the ensuing years, more organizations would join the ranks of this burgeoning program. And soon enough, it wasn’t just schools and hotels—employers like the City of St. Petersburg, United Maintenance Company, Evara Health, and, most recently, Orlando Health, would later join. 

For the last two years, PSTA has embarked on two new exciting types of UPASS partnerships with the launch of the EDGE Business District and a first-of-its-kind program for the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association. Both new partnerships have already seen great success, an encouraging sign for the future of UPASS’ growth.

Helping Connect Students, Employees, and Neighbors in Pinellas

For many students and workers, a lack of reliable transportation presents a significant barrier to education, income, and better career opportunities. It’s this need that the UPASS program strives to address. But the program has also encouraged individuals to try riding a bus for the very first time, allowing them to experience the many benefits of choosing public transit. To better understand the role UPASS has played in providing essential transportation to those who need it and how it has inspired folks to give public transit a try, we’ll hear about the program’s success from two current UPASS partners.

Juli Norberg, Dual Director of Sales and Marketing, Hampton Inn & Suites Clearwater Beach and Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club

Juli first discussed the possibility of becoming a UPASS partner during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since signing the dotted line, the partnership has become essential to Hampton Inn & Suites and Winter the Dolphin’s Beach Club. For the hotel’s staff, many of whom are housekeepers, UPASS has provided them with reliable transportation and more financial flexibility.

“Without the UPASS program, we wouldn’t have staff,” Juli said.

Juli explained that many staff members without their own vehicles were previously relying on Uber or Lyft rides to make their commute, a cost that adds up quickly and eats into their budget. For Juli, the UPASS program presented an opportunity to take care of their staff and provide yet another perk to their hotel guests.

“We’ve got a 91-room hotel that runs at around 91% every day. Taking the extra revenue and putting it towards covering bus fares was the best decision we’ve made,” Juli explained. “Our staff are essential, but they’re also like family. It means so much to know they now have extra money to put food on the table or go out for family fun. And because Pinellas schools are UPASS members, their children ride fare-free, too!”

With happy staff and happy guests enjoying the benefits of the UPASS program, Juli has been telling all the neighboring hotels about their success and encouraging them to partner with PSTA as well.

Juli’s huge smile could be heard through the phone as she said, “I love the UPASS program and what it’s done for us. We’re excited to re-sign again; there’s no question that we will. Thank you, PSTA!”

Alexis Baum, Treasurer, Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association

The year was 2022, and Alexis Baum was serving as President of the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association (HKNA). As the name implies, it’s an organization that oversees the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood, a charmingly artistic and diverse district located just west of downtown St. Petersburg. PSTA’s Public Engagement Manager, Bob Lasher, was attending one of HKNA’s meetings to promote the brand-new SunRunner service, which had two stations within walking distance of the neighborhood. During his presentation, the UPASS program was discussed; Alexis perked up and raised her hand.

“Has UPASS ever partnered with a neighborhood association?” she asked.

No, PSTA had never partnered with a neighborhood association before. In fact, such a partnership would be the first of its kind in the state of Florida. But Alexis saw an exciting new opportunity for her beloved community, a way to provide yet another unique and tangible benefit to members of the neighborhood association. And PSTA saw an opportunity to test a new type of UPASS partnership. Why not give it a shot?

A group photo from the official launch of HKNA’s UPASS program

HKNA’s UPASS program began in June 2024 as a pilot program and has been a runaway success. Since its launch a little over a year ago, the service has provided over 6,700 rides to HKNA UPASS riders.

“It’s been phenomenal!” Alexis exclaimed. “Not only has it provided a wonderful amenity for existing members, but it’s actually grown our membership. People who move in are shocked when we explain the program to them.”

Before the launch of HKNA’s UPASS program, their membership was around 450. Now they have close to 800 members—nearly double! And it hasn’t just brought an increase in membership. Members have also become more involved in community events and stepped up to volunteer.

Early on, HKNA’s Board of Directors created a private Facebook community to educate members on how UPASS worked and share tips on riding the SunRunner and other PSTA services. Members could ask questions and, best of all, coordinate fun group outings that utilized public transit. HKNA’s UPASS program has played a role in fostering community friendships, while also allowing transit newcomers to try out the SunRunner.

PSTA CEO Brad Miller with Megan Basnett, the very first HKNA UPASS cardholder.

“Members tell me all the time how the UPASS program made it easier to attend events downtown and save money on parking. We have neighbors who use the SunRunner to commute to their jobs on the beach,” Alexis said. “And since last storm season, a neighbor lost her car to flooding and now has free transit to help her out.”

Alexis has lived in many big cities, where she never drove a vehicle and relied on public transit—for her, using the bus in St. Pete is only natural. Since the wild success of HKNA’s pilot program, the association has been looking for more ways to tap into multimodal transit options, such as using scooters to reach SunRunner stations even more quickly.

“Our UPASS program has added enormous value to our community,” Alexis said proudly. “And I hope that we can be a model for the rest of the city by using public transit.”

The Future of the UPASS Program

The UPASS program provides benefits for everyone involved. For PSTA, it serves as an additional source of revenue for an agency with very limited funding. For schools, businesses, and other organizations, it provides an attractive and cost-saving benefit for students, employees, and members. And for UPASS riders themselves, it offers transportation options to those without vehicles or who wish to save on gas and avoid wasting time in traffic.

Just this past month, PSTA has added Orlando Health and The Hiatus Hotel to its roster of UPASS partners. In the case of Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, more than 2,000 employees and contractors now join 3,500 additional healthcare workers in Pinellas County who already save money with free transit access through UPASS. With the cost of living on the rise, UPASS helps ease that burden and makes transportation more accessible for essential healthcare staff who keep our community safe and healthy.

The launch of Orlando Health’s UPASS program.

PSTA will continue to pursue opportunities to partner with various entities throughout Pinellas County, providing affordable and convenient public transportation for our community. Do you know of an organization that could benefit from a UPASS program? Let’s talk about it! Send an email to UPASS@psta.net and let’s work together.

Hear from new and veteran bus operators what operating a bus for PSTA is really all about!

PSTA is honing in on a newly redesigned bus network, and we want to take you through all the details!

With all the exciting new services PSTA is launching this year, we wanted to give you an inside look at how the sausage is made!

Staying on the cutting edge of transit technologies and innovation is a huge focus for PSTA, especially when our community voices specific needs. While we pride ourselves on maintaining a robust, reliable fixed-route bus service, sometimes an area of Pinellas or a group of riders needs something a bit more specialized. And PSTA never shies away from the chance to develop creative, first-of-its-kind solutions to unique challenges!

In the past five years, PSTA has launched many new services, including:

• SunRunner
• Grouper Airport Express
• Clearwater Ferry
• And, coming soon, the 34th St Spark!

For this month’s installment of our Deep Drive series, we’ll explore the first stages of how a new service is launched, from the initial idea and planning to obtaining funding and determining the logistics of how the service operates.

P.S., keep an eye out for part two, where we’ll focus on how the service is branded, marketed, and launched—coming soon!

The ceremonial bottle-breaking for the new PSTA Clearwater Ferry on January 31st, 2025.

Getting the Big Ideas

An idea for a new service can come from many places. Most often, ideas are incubated in PSTA’s Planning department, but anyone can bring their thoughts to the table. For example, some ideas come from the community—schools or businesses may have transportation needs for their students or employees. Members of the community may share their needs with PSTA’s Outreach team during community events or submit public comments to board meetings. Some ideas may even come from members of PSTA’s own Board of Directors!

In addition, PSTA conducts a community bus plan every five years, as is required by the Florida Department of Transportation for all transit agencies that receive state funding. The purpose of the community bus plan is to review PSTA’s current system by evaluating ridership, development activity, and what services are in demand. The goal is to enhance transit connections and set objectives for the future. Sometimes, as a result of the community bus plan, transit needs are identified and spawn new services of their own.

For the past three community bus plans, it’s been clear that having more frequent, premium transit options on major corridors increases overall ridership and helps serve the approximately 15.4 million visitors to Pinellas County. And thus, PSTA plans to focus on developing more premium services like the SunRunner with our upcoming 34th St Spark service launching in 2025, and the recently launched Grouper Airport Express, which provides on-demand transportation from St. Pete/Clearwater International Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach!

(By the way, PSTA is currently in the midst of redesigning our entire bus network as a result of the current community bus plan. Click here to learn more about the current bus plan, called the Connected Community Bus Network!)

 The logo for PSTA’s Connected Community Bus Network.

If the idea comes from outside of PSTA, members of our Planning and Outreach team begin discussions with interested parties to determine what exactly is needed from a potential new service. Could implementing a fixed-route bus service to the area be a satisfactory solution? Or do the needs require more innovative or unique solutions? PSTA staff collect all the pertinent information and use it in their next planning steps to ensure the perspective new service meets all the needs of the community members requesting it.

With this highly collaborative approach, PSTA has the opportunity to hear from a diverse cast of voices who offer a blend of valuable perspectives.

It’s All in the Details

When it comes to ideas hatched by PSTA staff internally, the next step is to dive into research and get relevant departments involved to explore what’s needed to make it a reality. For example, when PSTA’s Planning department first imagined our Direct Connect program, which provides discounted Uber and Lyft rides to or from approved bus stops and locations, staff members had to hammer out a few key details:

• Who will the service benefit?
• What will the service look like?
• How will PSTA fund the service?
• How will the service be operated?

A PSTA staff member hard at work.

For the Direct Connect service, the Planning team wanted to provide supplemental first- and last-mile service to fill in the gaps our fixed-route bus service couldn’t fill—a first-of-its-kind program in the United States! Direct Connect allows riders who live beyond walking distance of a bus stop to get discounted Uber and Lyft rides to one of 26 locations throughout the county.

(Learn more about how PSTA partners with transit network companies (TNC) like Uber and Lyft)

Next, PSTA’s Scheduling, Project Management, and Operations team join the conversation to explore the deeper details of the proposed service. Scheduling works on the timing of the service (will it run on a schedule or be on-demand?), and Project Management determines the best locations for stops, shelters, benches, signs, and any other amenities that may be needed. And finally, Operations decides how the service will be “operationalized”—what vehicles will be used? What routes will the operators follow? What schedules are most feasible and efficient?

Once PSTA staff have a plan for what the service would need to operate, staff then explore how it might be funded.

Finding the Funding

In the case of Direct Connect, the Planning team discovered they could fund the service by discontinuing low-performing routes. However, when reallocating funding isn’t possible, PSTA often applies for federal and state grants to obtain funding for new transit projects. Because there are many different grants for different types of projects, PSTA’s amazing Planning team tracks and applies for the most promising ones that might get a new service off the ground.

PSTA press release announcing the federal grant that funded the SunRunner.

Generally speaking, federal grants help fund capital projects such as the SunRunner, whereas state grants help pay operating costs. However, state grants can certainly help launch a new service as well. For example, the Florida Department of Transportation’s Innovative Service Development (ISD) pays 50% of the cost of a new service for three years, which can help make a new, innovative idea become a reality. In fact, this type of state grant is responsible for funding the Clearwater Ferry and the upcoming 34th St Spark service.

Once a grant opportunity is identified during cross-departmental meetings or through coordination with our local partners, PSTA staff work tirelessly to submit an application. Grant applications give PSTA the opportunity to explain the scope of the new service, and how it will benefit the community, as well as thoroughly laying out the agency’s rigorous plan for developing and implementing the service. 

With the application submitted, PSTA crosses its collective fingers and hopes to be awarded the funding.

Making Ideas Into Reality

Congratulations! PSTA has secured funding either through reallocating funding from low-performing routes or by being awarded a federal or state grant!

But… now what?

Well, now the service is one step closer to becoming a real thing you ride! While PSTA’s Finance and Grants teams work on handling the necessary documentation to process the funding, it’s all hands on deck for PSTA staff to truly set in stone how the service will run.

With the promise of funding now in sight, PSTA’s Operations team can now translate the creativity of ideas into a real, regimented service riders can rely on. The Project Management team begins finalizing where stops will be, and working with vendors for signage, totems, and other specialized amenities. Development begins on the service’s schedule, branding, and, most exciting of all, the new service’s official launch!

All that and more is to come in part two, where we’ll discuss the finer details of how a new service is planned, branded, and communicated to the public. Stay tuned!

The official launch of the SunRunner service on October 21st, 2022.

Transit maps have the unenviable task of explaining complex systems through simplified maps—none of them are perfect, but PSTA hopes to build a better one!

Have YOU finished your holiday shopping yet?

If you’ve still got last-minute holiday shopping ahead of you, may we humbly offer some amazing local small businesses that could use your patronage? It’s been a rough hurricane season for many beloved mom-and-pop stores around Pinellas County. But you can show your support by shopping local—and PSTA can help you get there!

Here’s your definitive list of holiday shopping spots and how PSTA can get you there!

Holiday views out the Jolley Trolley in Sponge Docks, up in Tarpon Springs.

Tarpon Springs

Five Fish on the Docks

The Sponge Exchange | 735 Dodecanese Blvd #1, Tarpon Springs, FL

Five Fish was founded by David and Andrea Gauchman and has been a part of the Tarpon Springs community since 1997. Bought by new ownership in August 2022, current husband and wife owners Gary and Laura Lush also value the same sense of community and carry this into Five Fish today! The couple have their own school of fish including 6 children and 3 grandchildren in their family. Using her background as a former visual merchandiser and territory manager for Pandora, Laura applies her skills and passion for retail to curating a wide selection of luxury gifts, jewelry, and decor. Five Fish continues to cherish our customers and employees.

How to Get There

Take the Jolley Trolley to Stop #8047 at the corner of Dodecanese Blvd and Roosevelt Blvd. Five Fish is just a two-block stroll to the east, in the heart of downtown Sponge Docks!

Moonberry Mercantile

101 W Court St, Tarpon Springs, FL

Nestled in the heart of our community, Moonberry Mercantile and Trading is more than just a store—it’s a collective for those who seek wholesome, traditional living. Here, we curate a space where ancestral wisdom meets modern conscious choices. We champion slow-made, old-fashioned practices with a mission to reconnect you to the roots of real, nourishing food and a pure, intentional lifestyle. Our goal is to foster a way of living rooted in wellness, sustainability, and timeless values, enriching your well-being with every visit.

How to Get There

Take the Jolley Trolley, Route 19, or Route 66L to Stop #5637 at the corner of Pinellas Ave S and Court St W. Moonberry Mercantile is right in front of your stop!

A holiday display in downtown Tarpon Springs.

Replay Amusement Museum

119 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL

Replay Museum is a museum of over 100 pinball games, video games, and other amusements from the past. Leave the coins at home, no quarters are needed to play.

How to Get There

Take Route 66L to stop #5642 near the corner of Pinellas Ave N and Tarpon Ave. Take a left at Tarpon Ave and Replay Museum is just a short walk down the block, on your left side!

The outside of Replay Amusement Museum in downtown Tarpon Springs.

Urban Grounds

Acropolis Meats & Deli | 150 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Coffee lounge, bakery, and daily eats. The perfect place for coffee on the go, a hangout spot, a sweet treat, or a light bite!

How to Get There

Take Route 66L to stop #8049 near the corner of Safford St and Tarpon Ave. Head south to the intersection and turn right on Tarpon Ave E. Urban Grounds is on the left side of the street, in the same building as Acropolis Meats & Deli!

We recently featured some of these businesses for our Holiday Hops and Shops Series! Click here to watch.

Beaches

Grove Surf Cafe

1309 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Grove Surf Cafe is an inviting space for you to meet with friends, grab a bite, and enjoy a fine cup of coffee. Owners Lindsey and Peter Gottschling opened their first retail shop and cafe on St. Pete Beach in 2020 named “Grove Surf + Coffee”.  Over the past 4 years, they were surprised to find that the shop quickly rocketed in popularity. With the success of the first location, plans for a second one came quickly. When thinking about expansion, Peter and Lindsey knew they wanted to do it at their “home” beach of Indian rocks. The new location is focussed on an expanded food menu, the addition of local beer and wine, and the same classic grove coffees.

How to Get There

Take the Suncoast Beach Trolley to stop #3791, near the corner of Gulf Blvd and 14th Ave on Indian Rocks Beach. Grove Surf Cafe is just a short stroll south on Gulf Blvd, on your left side.

Nekton Surf Shop

1313 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Growing up on the shores of Indian Rocks Beach, the Lopez family name quickly became synonymous with world-class surfers Cory and Shea. Both ingrained their surfing legacy by competing on the WST (World Surfing Tour) while consistently ranking amongst the top 40 surfers around the globe for nearly a decade. With millions of miles of surf travel accumulated under their boards, they decided to celebrate this experience back home. From humble beginnings on IRB to world-class professionals, Nekton Surf Shop is proud to celebrate a family-owned and operated surf legacy. Whether you’re a beach bum, ocean lover, or core surfer, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

How to Get There

Take the Suncoast Beach Trolley to stop #3791, near the corner of Gulf Blvd and 14th Ave on Indian Rocks Beach. Nekton Surf Shop is in the next building from Grove Surf Cafe, just a quick walk south on Gulf Blvd, on your left side.

Pipo N Betty’s Bakery

435 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Formerly known as Ready Set Yo, Pipo N Betty’s Bakery is family-owned and operated. We take pride in providing products that are delicious and locally sourced from Tampa Bay businesses. Need your morning cup of coffee? We got you. Need a fresh pastry? We got you. Need a delicious protein shake? We got you. We got a little something for everyone to get you going. Stop by and experience the best coffee shop and bakery on the beach.

How to Get There

Take the Suncoast Beach Trolley to stop #3532, near the intersection of Gulf Blvd and 4th Ave. Pipo N Betty’s Bakery is just a short walk north on Gulf Blvd on the right side of the road!

The Candy Kitchen owners Pam & Bob Hoffman standing in front of their Redington Shores location.

The Candy Kitchen

13711 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL

The original Candy Kitchen opened in 1950. The Candy Kitchen prides itself on making homemade ice cream, fudge, and Italian ice, and selling nostalgic candies from your childhood. Visit us during your next trip to the beach and allow us to satisfy your sweet tooth! Opened in 1950, the Madeira Beach location is the one that started it all. From the lips on the door, to the ever-growing Pez collection, this store has been fun for the whole family for generations. Located a mile north of John’s Pass, this tiny candy store has seen many friendly faces. Even with lines out the door at night, people from all over have come to visit this staple of the beaches and make sure to leave their mark by signing the walls. When visiting, don’t forget to check out the bathroom which has been covered from floor to ceiling with candy boxes from the ages.

How to Get There

Take the Suncoast Beach Trolley or Route 68 to stop #1806 near Gulf Blvd and 137th Ave Cir. The Candy Kitchen is a quick walk north on Gulf Blvd, on the right side!

We recently featured some of these businesses for our Holiday Hops and Shops Series! Click here to watch.

St. Petersburg

Daydream Shop & Maker Space

2935 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL

A beautiful co-op shop in the heart of downtown St. Pete carrying all handmade, vintage, & locally sourced goods. It’s run by the artists inside it!

How to Get There

You can take the SunRunner to Grand Central or 32nd Street N station, or take the Central Avenue Trolley to stop #1080 at Central Ave and 30th St N. Daydream Shop & Maker Space is on the left side of Central Ave, next to The Nook and Sugar Cream Clay!

A beautiful Good Mood candle outside Daydream Shop & Maker Space.

Craftsman House Gallery & Cafe

2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL

A spectacular collection of fine craft. Housed in a historic 1918 bungalow this gallery, café, and working pottery studio is a true destination.

How to Get There

You can take the SunRunner to Grand Central or 32nd Street N station, or take the Central Avenue Trolley to stop #1069 at Central Ave and 30th St S. Craftsman House Gallery & Cafe is right at Central Ave and 30th St S.

Sugar Cream Clay

2939 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL

Sugar Cream Clay is a cozy art studio and boutique in sunny St, Petersburg, specializing in handcrafted ceramic creations. Our space offers a curated selection of unique pottery pieces, all lovingly made in-house. We also provide private pottery wheel classes in an intimate, supportive environment, perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or find a one-of-a-kind piece for your home, Sugar Cream Clay is your destination for creativity and connection!

How to Get There

You can take the SunRunner to Grand Central or 32nd Street N station, or take the Central Avenue Trolley to stop #1069 at Central Ave and 30th St S. Sugar Cream Clay is in the same plaza as The Nook and Daydream Shop & Maker Space.

Good Mood Candle Co.

Online Shop

Good Mood Candle Co was born in September 2019 out of a need for clean products in my home. A passion for design. A heart for mental health. And a LOVE of candles! From that I’ve created candles that not only smell really freaking good, but are as clean and safe as they can be made! That means not cutting corners. Each candle has 100% soy wax, sustainably sourced wooden wick, non-toxic fragrance above industry standards, and a look and feel that elevates your home. Good Mood scents are custom blended to encourage the mood that you would like to feel, and tied together with the name of each candle. All of our products are hand-made, hand-poured, and personally designed by me from start to finish in sunny St. Pete, FL. My hope is that you want to use these candles as part of a self-care routine, a beacon of positivity after a long day, or a source comfort and safety in your home.

Daisy and Honey Studios

Online Shop

Hi there! My name is Nia. I am a multidisciplinary artist currently based in St. Petersburg, Florida. I create work that is supposed to fun, positive and carefree.I’ve always loved art and started doing professionally in 2020. My work is inspired by nature, mindfulness, and the human form. Through many different forms of art, I am focused on creating warm, fun, and positive work that inspires people to be the best version of yourself.

Sans Market

1037 Central Ave, St. Petersburg

The vision of Sans Market was to create a store that not only provided eco-friendly alternatives to replace single-use plastics, excess packaging, and toxins but an opportunity to empower and educate. In the age of technology, product branding, and social media we are flooded with both information and (a lot of) misinformation daily. If you are like us, you know it can be hard to know what products and brands to trust. We strive to lessen that burden for you.

We never claim to be experts on every subject when it comes to zero waste. However, you can trust that countless hours are spent researching the products, companies, manufacturing practices and ingredient sourcing of the items we bring into the store. Just like you, we want to be sure the items we use come from companies that share our mission of sustainability, in all forms. We then take it one step further and aim to bring you options that are affordable. If we wouldn’t be willing to pay for an item at a certain price point, then we don’t expect you to either!

How to Get There

You can take the SunRunner to 13th St N or 13th St S stations, or take the Central Avenue Trolley to stop #8018 at Central Ave and 11th St. Sans Market is right in front of the Central Avenue Trolley stop!

AfterBurnt

Online Shop

AfterBurnt began creating wood-burned art and sterling silver jewelry in 2014 in our garage. We started selling locally at pop-up markets and began exploring the concept of traveling and creating art across the country. We then took a big leap and sold our home and traded it for a 16-foot vintage camper we named Murica. We renovated the Murica and hit the road in 2016 with our 2 dogs and our tools. We traveled the US and created art inspired by our adventures along the way. After 2 years of camper life, we planted our roots back where we began in sunny St. Pete Florida. Our creations have evolved over the years and will continue to as we grow and explore new mediums, but they are still made with the same passion and pride as they were in that garage.

Tomobolo Books’ colorful storefront in downtown St. Peterburg.

Tombolo Books

2153 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg

Tombolo Books is an independent bookstore dedicated to promoting the value and pleasure of reading throughout St. Petersburg by offering thoughtful inventory curation, extensive literary knowledge, and excellent customer service. Tombolo Books operated as a pop-up in the Tampa Bay region for several years before finding our brick-and-mortar home in the Grand Central District in December 2019. Founder Alsace Walentine was the longtime events director of Malaprop’s Bookstore in Asheville, NC before moving to St. Petersburg with her partner and store co-owner Candice Anderson. The bookstore is a cultural intersection and a welcoming space for browsing, writing, and communing. We believe we can build community and strengthen the city by reflecting social and cultural diversity and encouraging the free exchange of ideas. Tombolo Books’ robust author events program enhances St. Petersburg’s literary arts culture.

How to Get There

You can take the SunRunner to the 22nd Street S station—Tombolo Books is right outside the station!

We recently featured some of these businesses for our Holiday Hops and Shops Series! Click here to watch.

In this Deep Drive installment, we’ll reflect back on the harrowing two weeks of hurricanes and how the unsung heroes of PSTA showed up for the community.

It goes without saying that this past hurricane season has been a challenging one for us all. Two major hurricanes in two weeks had many of us feeling as though we were stuck in a time loop. And it certainly didn’t help that each storm impacted our area between Wednesday and Thursday of their respective weeks.

Although Pinellas is no stranger to tropical systems throughout hurricane season, Helene and Milton packed a punch many were unprepared for. And it’s in these moments of unexpected destruction and loss, that finely-tuned preparation plans can be the lighthouse in the literal storm.

In its long 40-year history, PSTA has honed its storm response procedures over the decades as technology and techniques have evolved. In this Deep Drive, we’ll take you through the agency’s entire storm response procedures, from the moment the storm starts forming to evacuations to post-storm clean-up and recovery!

Before the Storm

PSTA’s storm response truly begins the moment the National Hurricane Center identifies an area of potential development. Thanks to the wonders of modern meteorology, we typically hear about potential storms a week before landfall.

An early tropical outlook for what would become Hurricane Helene—PSTA staff check each of these updates and send regular updates on storm preparedness plans.
(Courtesy of the National Hurricane Center)

Our Safety & Security Team begins monitoring the system and sends regular updates to PSTA leaders, especially once a storm track is released. If it appears the storm may impact our area, real preparation begins and updates are communicated with all PSTA staff.

Facilities Team

First, we’ll discuss what our incredible Facilities team, led by our Superintendent of Facilities, Missy Nevitt, does to prepare PSTA’s Administration and Operations buildings and the four terminals for inclement weather.

“We’ve really got it down to a science,” Missy said. “Once we’ve confirmed the storm is coming, I text my guys, ‘Move it in!’ and they jump into action like a well-oiled machine.”

Beginning at five in the morning, Missy’s crew gets to work securing all campus assets—essentially anything that could go flying is brought in or secured, including bus shelter parts, benches, and garbage cans. PSTA’s contractors pull trash from stops and terminals in the days before the storm makes landfall to minimize our contribution to flying trash. In the case of Hurricane Milton, there was also the task of removing all the debris left over by Hurricane Helene. The Facilities team picked uncountable amounts of branches and loaded them into 15 trailers, quickly rushing it all to the dumps at dawn before a four-hour line could form.

The last steps for our Facilities team can only happen once local evacuations are complete, our bus fleet is relocated, and the Administration building is fully cleared of staff. Missy and her right-hand men Jagan “Jay” Mohan and Ronnie Sansom remain on campus for the storm’s duration, allowing them to make final preps without staff coming and going from the buildings.

With PSTA’s campus a mere seven feet above sea level and sitting squarely in a flood zone, water intrusion is certainly a concern for Missy and her team. In the hours before a storm makes landfall, they walk the Administration building, position sandbags along doors, and chain the doors in place so high winds don’t pop them open. Next, they turn off the electric chargers on the lot, spray foam the doors to the electrical room, and install more sandbags there for good measure.

Once these steps are complete, Missy and her core crew hunker down in their offices for the long haul of the storm. The whole process takes about two days, but they are long—most work 10- to 13-hour days to prepare everything.

Transportation Team

While Missy and her crew are hard at work preparing headquarters, the Transportation team is abuzz with activity as evacuations are called for vulnerable flood zone areas. Next, we’ll learn about the incredible storm response efforts of our Operations and Transportation teams.

Interim Superintendent of Transportation Shelbie Harris begins directing her Transportation Supervisors to run buses for evacuations and prepare to relocate the fleet. Much like Missy, Shelbie hears about potential storms up to a week in advance and keeps her Transportation Supervisors updated as the situation develops.

The first order of business is notifying all bus operators and operations staff, giving each person time to prepare their families for the storm. For Shelbie, it’s essential operators have time to handle their own storm prep and evacuations, even if it affects their ability to report to work. Luckily, there’s always a list of operators ready to volunteer with evacuations and remain at PSTA headquarters to jump into action once the storm has passed.

Chief Operating Officer James Bradford ensures the Operations building is fully stocked with supplies and snacks, as PSTA awaits the activation of Pinellas County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Once EOC is activated, specially trained PSTA staff are deployed to work with the Pinellas County Emergency Management team and relay up-to-date information on the storm’s path, evacuations, and current weather conditions. PSTA’s EOC staff stays in contact with Safety Security & Training Supervisor Eddie Kester, who oversees the coordination of county-wide evacuation efforts. Here’s a look at just how many evacuations PSTA assisted with during Hurricanes Helene and Milton:

Hurricane Helene

• Pre-Storm Preparation and Evacuation Ridership (9/24–9/25)
  • 65,485
• Post-Storm Return and Recovery Ridership (9/28–10/7)
  • 241,157
• Targeted Evacuation Rides Requested by Emergency Management
  • 465

Hurricane Milton

• Pre-Storm Preparation and Evacuation Ridership (10/7–10/8)
  • 42,851
• Post-Storm Return and Recovery Ridership (10/12–10/20)
  • 219,141
• Targeted Evacuation Rides Requested by Emergency Management
  • 764

 
A line of older diesel PSTA buses lines up to assist in evacuations. 

After the devastating storm surge levels Hurricane Helene brought to our area, PSTA leaders were highly concerned about the even higher storm surge predictions released in the days leading to Hurricane Milton’s arrival. The decision was made to relocate our bus fleet of over 200 buses to higher ground elsewhere in the county, a massive undertaking that began as soon as service was suspended Tuesday at 2 PM and emergency evacuations ended at 7 PM.

For hours, a steady stream of buses are driven by tireless bus operators to chosen high ground, some vehicles needing a tow due to in-progress repairs. Only a handful of PSTA’s oldest diesel buses remained at headquarters, just in case last-minute emergency rescues were needed right before or right after the storms.

During the Storm

As the skies darken by the middle of the week, PSTA’s skeleton teams settle into a long night vigil as each storm makes landfall between Wednesday and Thursday of its respective week. For Missy and her team, they gather in her office to watch the camera feeds and keep each other company while the power remains on. For the transportation team, one supervisor and a handful of operators make themselves comfortable but remain on standby should their services be needed.

The wind howls, the retention pond fills, and debris streaks across camera feeds. Missy monitors the cameras closely, checking water levels and conditions through her curated command center. Meanwhile, the small transportation team sits tight, staying in constant contact with PSTA staff stationed at the county EOC.

Missy, Jay (right), and Ronnie (left).

After the flurry of activity in the days leading up to the storm, PSTA’s emergency crew is not unlike all remaining residents of the Tampa Bay Area. There’s nothing to do but wait, listen, and wonder. Missy watches the water rise in the pond and the retention canal and takes walks around the building to ensure everything is secure.

Missy and her team remained on campus for 60 hours during Helene and 72 hours for Milton. PSTA staff at EOC spends three days with the rest of the Pinellas County Emergency Management team. It’s a long couple of days, and when the winds finally die down, their hard work is far from over.

After the Storm

The following morning, like so many others, PSTA’s overnight storm crew steps outside and surveys the damage. After Helene, the building still has power, but Milton’s aftermath requires the aid of PSTA’s large generators. These generators power the servers, emergency lights, fuel lanes, tanks, dispensers, and the slow bus chargers.

Missy conducts a site survey around campus, then the terminals and the SunRunner route. She receives reports on damage or issues with both buildings and calls her team back in to handle post-storm clean-up.

Meanwhile, the Safety & Security team sends trucks out to run all the routes, assessing which ones require detours and which ones are clear for service. It’s a complex task navigating flooded roads, downed trees and power lines, and dodging debris, but over the course of the day, detours are issues, and service resumes as soon as it’s safe to do so.

Sand, mud, and debris cover a PSTA shelter on one of the beaches after Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic storm surge.

But PSTA’s post-storm recovery does not end there—while emergency crews get much-needed rest, PSTA begins coordinating with local partners to help the community. After both Helene and Milton, PSTA instituted fare-free periods to help people get around after losing their cars and homes to storm surge or wind damage. The agency also participated in storm relief community outreach, such as the three supply drives held in partnership with Reach St. Pete.

Representative Kathy Castor joins PSTA’s Communications and Outreach team for a Hurricane relief drive in partnership with Reach St. Pete.

In the days after the storms, news stories emerged about the incredible bravery of individual bus operators who found themselves becoming first responders during evacuation efforts. You can learn more about their stories here:

• Tampa Bay Times: Pinellas bus drivers became emergency responders amid hurricanes
• ABC Action News: PSTA drivers help thousands during Hurricanes Helene and Milton
• Bay News 9: PSTA drivers transport thousands during back-to-back hurricanes
• St. Pete Catalyst: PSTA drivers helped save thousands of lives during storms

Although this hurricane season was one of the worst in recent memory, PSTA’s storm response measures met the challenge, undaunted. It’s only thanks to the immeasurable dedication of PSTA staff and leaders that evacuations could be quickly completed and service reinstated as soon as possible. With each storm, PSTA adds a new technique or procedure to its robust storm preparedness routine.

Rest assured that, should another active hurricane season come our way, PSTA will always be ready to help our community members get to safety!