Need A Ride on New Year’s Eve? PSTA’s Got You Covered
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 26th, 2024
NEED A RIDE ON NEW YEAR’S EVE? PSTA’S GOT YOU COVERED!
PSTA Offering Free Extended Service on New Year’s Eve
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is offering free transportation options on New Year’s Eve, ensuring that everyone who chooses to celebrate has an option to get home safely. PSTA will provide free service on all routes the entire day on Tuesday, December 31st, 2024.
Select major routes including the SunRunner as well as routes: 4, 18, 19, 34, 52, 60, and the Suncoast Beach Trolley all will have extended service hours until 1:00 a.m.
The SunRunner will operate every 15 minutes until 1:00 a.m.
“We want to do our part in the community to provide a safe and convenient transportation option this upcoming holiday season,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “No matter how you celebrate New Year’s Eve in Pinellas County, choosing to ride the SunRunner or other routes means you’ll arrive safely!”
Buses will run on a Holiday/Sunday schedule and our Infoline remains open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Awarded $1 million to Streamline Reduced Fare Enrollment for Veterans and Seniors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 17th, 2024
PSTA Awarded $1 million to Streamline Reduced Fare Enrollment for Veterans and Seniors
PSTA Awarded Through USDOT’s SMART Grant Program
St. Petersburg, FL—The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced that the Pinellas Suncoast Transportation Authority (PSTA) was awarded $1 million for new innovative technology to help streamline reduced fare enrollment for Veterans and seniors. These funds will connect PSTA’s enrollment system for reduced bus fares to Login.gov and make it easier for veterans and seniors to apply online for free or lower bus fares.
“Tampa Bay area veterans and seniors need improved access to transit to get where they need to go,” said Rep. Castor. “This $1 million SMART grant – provided through the historic federal Infrastructure law – will make it easier for veterans and seniors to apply for free and reduced fares from the comfort of their homes or smartphones. I salute PSTA for its innovative approach to ensure our neighbors enjoy affordable, reliable transportation.”
“We are incredibly thankful to US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Congresswoman Kathy Castor, and USDOT for their recognition of the need for this project,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “PSTA strives to remove as many barriers as possible so that our community can use our services. Creating an easier process for our veterans and seniors to get their free or reduced fare on their smartphone or at their home will make using our public transit services even easier.”
PSTA was awarded the funds through the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program.
The USDOT’s SMART Grant Program is a two-stage program: Stage One Planning and Prototyping Grants, and Stage Two Implementation Grants. This round of projects include 34 Stage One Prototyping projects in 21 states including PSTA’s fare technology project. This is the third year of the overall SMART Grant Stage One awards, for which the Department received 308 eligible grant applications for this most recent round of funding.
To learn more about the SMART grants, click here.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Seeks Community Feedback on Draft Connected Community Bus Network
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20th, 2024
PSTA Seeks Community Feedback on Draft Connected Community Bus Network
Pinellas County, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is excited to announce the release of the Draft Connected Community Bus Network map and schedule. This initiative, developed in consultation with the communities that rely on PSTA for transportation, aims to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public transit in Pinellas County. The draft map can be viewed here.
Along with reviewing the proposals, the public is encouraged to complete this interactive survey that allows the community to share their thoughts conveniently from any device and any location.
As the plan’s draft phase is now complete, PSTA is seeking feedback from the community on the newly proposed bus route network well in advance of the PSTA Board of Director’s consideration of approving the plans, which is set for Spring 2025. Even after the Board’s consideration, PSTA will still be reaching out to the community to explain the new and improved network of services.
“As we continue to strive to provide the best public transportation to Pinellas County, we are constantly looking for input from the community on how to make our services even better,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “The goal of the Connected Community Bus Network is to provide a clear, consistent and connected transit system that allows visitors and residents to easily travel throughout Pinellas County.”
Connected Community Bus Network Highlights:
· More weekend service
· More tourist transportation services
· Enhance premium core routes
· Increase access to jobs
· Decrease travel time with timed transfers
· Cost neutral
PSTA will be hosting a series of events where residents can engage directly with staff and learn about the Connected Community Bus Network and share their ideas. The first opportunity will be at the Holly Jolly Block Party at the Ross Norton Recreation Center on December 13th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
How You Can Help Spread the Word:
· Share a post on social media.
· Email the flyer to friends and family.
· Print out the flyer and distribute it to local businesses.
· Share the events on community calendars.
· Include the flyer and news release in newsletters and email blasts.
For more information on the Connected Community Bus Network, upcoming community events, and to take the survey, please visit PSTA’s social media channels and website at psta.net.
After additional rounds of feedback from the public, PSTA’s Board of Directors will vote on a final version of the plan, which PSTA plans to implement in October 2025.
“Together, we can create a more accessible, efficient, and community-focused public transportation system. Your input is vital to us, and we look forward to your participation,” said Miller.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Offering Free Rides to the Polls on Tuesday, November 5th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 31st, 2024
PSTA Offering Free Rides to the Polls on Tuesday, November 5th
St. Petersburg, FL—For Election Day, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is offering free rides to all voters on November 5th. This offer is for PSTA’s fixed service only.
A rider qualifies for a free ride if:
- Rider presents Voter Registration Card to the bus operator
- Rider presents “I Voted” Sticker to the bus operator
- Rider informs the bus operator they are voting at one of Pinellas’s precincts
Riders can find their polling location by visiting votepinellas.gov
This applies to only election day, November 5th, and not early voting.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Prepares for Tropical Storm Helene
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24th, 2024
PSTA Prepares for Tropical Storm Helene
Bus service remains in effect, unless winds reach a sustained 40 miles per hour
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is preparing for Tropical Storm Helene. Bus service is scheduled to remain open, but PSTA will halt service if the storm has sustained tropical storm-force winds of 40 miles per hour.
“The safety of our drivers and passengers is always our top priority at PSTA. We are committed to providing service, as long as it’s safe to do so,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “As we keep a close watch on Tropical Storm Helene’s path, we will continue to send updates to keep our community informed.”
PSTA will update the local media about the status of service, so tune into your local newspaper, TV radio, and online outlets for the most up-to-date information. Riders can also find the latest information on PSTA bus service by calling the InfoLine at 727-540-1900 or by visiting our Facebook and Twitter feeds at Ride PSTA.
To stay up to date, please follow PSTA on all social media channels and local media outlets.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA to Be Fare Free Starting Monday, October 7th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6th, 2024
PSTA to Be Fare Free Starting Monday, October 7th
PSTA to Assist with Evacuation services
St. Petersburg, FL—Due to the approaching storm, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will be fare-free on all services including PSTA’s paratransit service, PSTA Access, beginning on Monday, October 7th to assist with evacuation services.
The suspension includes all PSTA routes, the Jolley Trolley and Looper.
The administrative office will be open on Monday, but closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.
PSTA will update the local media about the status of service, so tune into your local newspaper, TV radio, and online outlets for the most up-to-date information. Riders can also find the latest information on PSTA bus service by calling the InfoLine at 727-540-1900 or by visiting our Facebook and X feeds at Ride PSTA.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Hurricane Milton Service Update
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6th, 2024
PSTA Hurricane Milton Service Update
Regular full service ends at 2 p.m., evacuation service continues until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8th
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) still plans to suspend its regular full service, including paratransit, beginning at 2 p.m. today, Tuesday, October 8th. After 2 p.m., services will be dedicated to evacuation efforts until 7 p.m. or sustained tropical storm force winds (40 mph) are reached. PSTA will also assist in evacuations from the barrier islands until 7 p.m. today.
Pinellas County has opened shelters in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. Below are the routes that will continue service until 7 p.m.
The suspension of service includes all PSTA routes, the Jolley Trolley and Looper. The suspension of service will continue all day Wednesday, October 9th until further notice.
Administration offices are closed today and Wednesday.
PSTA will update the local media about the status of service, so tune into your local newspaper, TV radio, and online outlets for the most up-to-date information. Riders can also find the latest information on PSTA bus service by calling the InfoLine at 727-540-1900 or by visiting our Facebook and X feeds at Ride PSTA.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Plans to Resume Service at 12 p.m. on Friday, September 27th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25th, 2024
PSTA Plans to Resume Service at 12 p.m. on Friday, September 27th
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) plans to resume limited service at 12 p.m., noon, on Friday, September 27th. Detours and delays are expected as we work with local authorities. To stay up to date on delays, visit psta.net/weather.
The resumption of service includes all PSTA routes, PSTA Access, the Jolley Trolley and Looper services.
Riders can also find the latest information on PSTA bus service by calling the InfoLine at 727-540-1900 or by visiting our Facebook and X feeds at Ride PSTA.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
PSTA Plans to Suspend Service on Thursday, September 26th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25th, 2024
PSTA Plans to Suspend Service on Thursday, September 26th
PSTA is in normal operation Wednesday, September 25th
St. Petersburg, FL—Due to the approaching storm, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) plans to suspend all transit service on Thursday, September 26th until further notice.
The suspension includes all PSTA routes, including PSTA Access, the Jolley Trolley and Looper services.
Pinellas County has opened shelters in anticipation of Hurricane Helene. If a PSTA bus rider is traveling to one of the shelters, they must inform the operator and their fare will be waived.
PSTA will update the local media about the status of service, so tune into your local newspaper, TV radio, and online outlets for the most up-to-date information. Riders can also find the latest information on PSTA bus service by calling the InfoLine at 727-540-1900 or by visiting our Facebook and X feeds at Ride PSTA.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
New SunRunner Station Breaks Ground Near St. Pete Pier
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16th, 2024
New SunRunner Station Breaks Ground Near St. Pete Pier
Expanded Route Improves Access to Downtown Waterfront
Pinellas County, FL – Today the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) broke ground on a new SunRunner station that will give residents and visitors closer access to the St. Pete Pier; Beach Drive; the Cross Bay Ferry; and the array of restaurants, businesses, and hotels along the Downtown St. Petersburg waterfront. With shovels in hand, PSTA CEO Brad Miller, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor, State Senator Darryl Rouson, and other leaders took the first steps to expand the hugely popular transit line and grow its footprint in Downtown.
FOR MEDIA KIT INCLUDING SOUND & BROADCAST QUALITY VIDEO CLICK HERE
“We are fulfilling our promise to the community by continuing to improve the SunRunner,” said PSTA CEO Brad Miller. “We’ve heard the requests from citizens, riders, staff, and elected officials to connect this service to the beautiful waterfront district of St. Petersburg. Today we are starting the process of turning those requests into a reality.”
The Tampa Bay region’s first-of-its-kind bus rapid transit service runs along PSTA’s most heavily used corridor and connects St. Pete Beach to Downtown St. Petersburg. The new station—located near the Sundial parking garage at 150 1st Avenue North—will improve mobility and accessibility to jobs, healthcare, education, and activity centers.
“The SunRunner has been a game-changer for our region, providing strong transportation options that benefit everyone,” said State Senator Darryl Rouson. “PSTA’s dedication to connectivity is evident in their efforts to get new people to try transit and the positive impact it has on our community. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when we invest in our transit infrastructure.”
The SunRunner launched in October 2022 with the goals of attracting new riders to transit; making life better for residents, businesses, and visitors; and contributing to a safer, cleaner community. Within its first year, the SunRunner surpassed one million riders and remains one of PSTA’s top-performing fixed routes. It recently celebrated its highest ridership ever on June 22, 2024.
The transit line has limited stops and gets riders “from the Beach to the ’Burg” (and vice-versa) in about 40 minutes. Riders do not have long waits thanks to frequent service every 15 minutes during peak times. The new Downtown station, along with three new SunRunner buses, will keep the promised 15-minute frequency.
“It’s an incredible asset for our community,” added Gina Driscoll, PSTA Board Chairperson & St. Pete City Councilwoman. “The SunRunner is helping St. Petersburg become an even safer and cleaner community. The hybrid electric vehicles reduce the number of cars on the road and lower carbon emissions. Traffic crashes are also significantly down along the corridor since service began.”
The SunRunner corridor has witnessed dynamic redevelopment activity since construction on the project began. A tracking report reveals $9 billion in development along the corridor. The route serves more than 50,000 jobs and 40,000 residents within a half-mile radius.
“The new SunRunner station will greatly benefit the tourists who visit our area and stay at hotels like Hyatt Place,” said Stephen Nunez, General Manager of Hyatt Place St. Petersburg Downtown. “The service makes life better for both residents and businesses by giving workers easy access to their jobs, enhancing our local economy, and ensuring our city remains a top destination for visitors.”
“A huge thank you to the PSTA staff, our partners both public and private, the PSTA Board members, and our federal and state elected officials who have embraced the vision of how quality mass transit can literally transform our community and improve our quality of life,” added Miller.
Crews completed the original SunRunner project $5 million under budget, allowing the remaining funds to be invested into this expansion. The new station is expected to be open by the end of 2024. For more information about the SunRunner, including an interactive map, click here.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
O: (727) 540-1853 | C: (727) 249-6542
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) serves as the premier public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida’s most densely populated county. The SunRunner, Tampa Bay’s first-ever Bus Rapid Transit service, provides a reliable, car-free option from downtown St. Pete and St. Pete Beach. With 41 fixed-route bus routes, two express routes to downtown Tampa, the Suncoast Beach trolley, Jolley Trolley and Looper and their paratransit service Access, PSTA provides 10.2 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net