For Immediate Release
March 30th, 2026
Hurricane Help for Coastal Communities: Devastated Dunedin Pier Gets Major Funds for Repairs
Dunedin, FL—Marking a major milestone in the recovery of coastal Tampa Bay communities from hurricanes Helene and Milton, significant federal funding was delivered Monday morning to help rebuild the iconic Dunedin Pier, which was twisted and torn apart by Hurricane Helene’s destructive storm surge.
*** CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO & PHOTOS FROM THE PRESENTATION OF FUNDS – ALONG WITH IMAGES OF DAMAGED PIER ***
Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna worked to secure more than $800,000 in vital federal funding and Monday presented a check for the funds to representatives from the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and the City of Dunedin. These funds will specifically reconstruct the portion of the pier used by PSTA’s Clearwater Ferry, creating a permanent dock for the ferry service, which serves as an important transportation and tourism link to other Pinellas County communities.
“After the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, rebuilding the Dunedin Pier is about more than infrastructure, its about restoring the heart of this community,” said Representative Anna Paulina Luna, Florida’s 13th Congressional District. “I was proud to help secure this funding to ensure Dunedin comes back stronger, safer, and ready to thrive again.”
PSTA’s Clearwater Ferry has made stops at the Dunedin Pier since 2018, connecting the city with Clearwater Beach and Downtown Clearwater. When Hurricane Helene ripped apart the pier on September 26, 2024, the Dunedin portion of the ferry service was halted for more than a year.
That stopped service cut off a flow of visitors to Downtown Dunedin’s businesses as well as a popular way for Dunedin locals to get to Clearwater Beach. In October 2025, service to Dunedin resumed with a small temporary dock. Because of the funding being presented Monday, that stopgap measure will be replaced by a full, permanent dock in the months ahead.
“We sincerely thank Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna for her support and championing these funds for our community,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “ With the Dunedin line being the most popular Clearwater Ferry route, in terms of ridership, this funding will restore a critical transit link that will support tourism, workforce mobility and congestion relief along the beach communities.“
The City of Dunedin has worked tirelessly since the storm to assemble funding from a range of sources to rebuild the entire pier and restore it as a centerpiece of Dunedin’s beloved Downtown. The funds presented by Congresswoman Luna on Monday will be coordinated with funding from FEMA, the State of Florida’s Disaster Fund, and the city’s general fund to bring the pier back to life. Construction is now underway, with completion expected by the end of this year.
“This $828,000 investment is a meaningful step in Dunedin’s recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton and ensures the Clearwater Ferry can continue serving our waterfront community,” said Rob Walker, Vice Mayor of the City of Dunedin and PSTA Board Member. “We want to thank Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna and her staff for securing this critical funding to ensure we are meeting the needs of our visitors and the residents of not only Dunedin, but Pinellas County, as well.”
“The Clearwater Ferry transported an estimated 25,000 passengers in 2025 between Clearwater, Clearwater Beach and Dunedin and is expected to significantly surpass that number in 2026. The money is going towards rebuilding the pier that will support ferry operations to further promote tourism, ease roadway congestion during peak travel times, and preserve the maritime character that defines our region,” Walker added.
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
March 30th, 2026
MEDIA ADVISORY—TODAY Hurricane Recovery Milestone: Major Funding Delivered to Rebuild Shattered Dunedin Pier
Dunedin, FL—Marking a major milestone in the recovery of coastal Tampa Bay communities from hurricanes Helene and Milton, significant federal funding will be delivered Monday morning to help rebuild the iconic Dunedin Pier, which was twisted and torn apart by Hurricane Helene’s destructive storm surge. (PHOTOS ATTACHED—MORE AT THIS LINK)
Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna worked to secure the vital $800,000 in federal funding, which will be presented Monday to representatives from the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and the City of Dunedin. These funds will specifically reconstruct the portion of the pier used by PSTA’s Clearwater Ferry, creating a permanent dock for the ferry service, which serves as an important transportation and tourism link to other Pinellas County communities.
The City of Dunedin has worked tirelessly since the storm to assemble funding from a range of sources to rebuild the entire pier and restore it as a centerpiece of Dunedin’s beloved Downtown. The funds presented by Congresswoman Luna on Monday will be coordinated with funding from FEMA, the State of Florida’s Disaster Fund, and the city’s general fund to bring the pier back to life. Construction is now underway, with completion expected by the end of this year.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITY
What: Presentation of check for major funding to rebuild Dunedin Pier
When: Monday, March 30 at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Dunedin Marina at the base of the currently closed Dunedin Pier (for GPS, search for 148 Marina Plaza, Dunedin, FL)
Who:
- Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna
- PSTA CEO Brad Miller
- City of Dunedin Vice Mayor and PSTA Board Member Robert Walker
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
PSTA’s Clearwater Ferry has made stops at the Dunedin Pier since 2018, connecting the city with Clearwater Beach and Downtown Clearwater. When Hurricane Helene ripped apart the pier on September 26, 2024, the Dunedin portion of the ferry service was halted for more than a year.
That stopped service cut off a flow of visitors to Downtown Dunedin’s businesses as well as a popular way for Dunedin locals to get to Clearwater Beach. In October 2025, service to Dunedin resumed with a small temporary dock. Because of the funding being presented Monday, that stopgap measure will be replaced by a full, permanent dock in the months ahead.
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
February 25th, 2026
Leave the Driving to the Pros: Take PSTA to the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is once again partnering with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg to bring more transportation options to attend this high-octane event.
PSTA’s SunRunner, the region’s first-of-its-kind Bus Rapid Transit service and official public transportation choice for the event, offers convenient and easy transportation to and from the event with stations near the nonstop racing action—the SunRunner Station on 1st Ave N & 1st Street provides easy access to the race as well as 6th Avenue S and 3rd Street S.
Discounted fares will be available for Firestone Grand Prix attendees on all PSTA fixed-route services. Type in the code “CREW” in the Flamingo Fares App for $2 off a 1-Day Group Pass (up to 4 people).
- To get this lightning of a deal, first create your account in the App.
- Select “Add Passes”
- Choose “PSTA”
- Use the following promo code at checkout:
- “CREW” for $2 off a 1-Day Group Pass, it will be available from 2/27/2026 to 3/1/2026.
- Codes are case-sensitive
For more information, visit psta.net/grandprix
To get your tickets, visit: www.gpstpete.com
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
February 24th, 2026
This Spring Break, Skip Paying for Parking & Bypass Traffic by Riding PSTA
Pinellas County, FL—From March 1 through May 3, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is making spring break travel easier for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the airport, or downtown hotspots, PSTA offers convenient, affordable options to get you there stress-free.
In partnership with the City of Clearwater, PSTA is once again offering its FREE Park & Ride service to Clearwater Beach, one of Florida’s top beach destinations. On weekends from March 1 through May 3, riders can park for free at the Gould Street Lot and hop on a bus running every 15 minutes. Service operates Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Visitors may also park for free on weekends at the Garden Avenue Parking Garage or the Osceola Street Garage. Trolleys serving these locations operate with the same frequency and hours. For more information, please click here.
Flying into St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)? PSTA’s Grouper service provides direct transportation between the airport and anywhere on Clearwater Beach. For tickets and additional information about Grouper, click here.
If waterfront travel is part of your spring break plans, hop aboard the Clearwater Ferry, offering service between Downtown Clearwater, Clearwater Beach, and Dunedin. For routes, schedules, and fares, click here.
Heading to South Pinellas beaches? PSTA’s newest service, Spark, connects with the SunRunner, providing a direct route from Downtown St. Petersburg to St. Pete Beach.
Wherever your spring break takes you, skip the stress of parking and traffic, let PSTA take you there!
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
February 19th, 2026
Baseball Fans Rejoice: Ride PSTA’s Free Park & Ride to Blue Jays Spring Training Games
In Partnership with City of Dunedin
Pinellas County, FL—Starting February 21st until March 23rd, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), in partnership with the City of Dunedin, will be offering its FREE park & ride to/from the Toronto Blue Jays’ spring training games at TD Ballpark.
Fans and spectators can park at these designated locations in downtown Dunedin:
- Mease Hospital Parking Lot
- Monroe Street Garage – Entrance on Monroe St.
Service will run every 15 minutes from 90 minutes before first pitch until one hour after the game ends. The service is free for game-day ticket holders.
For more information, visit psta.net/springtraining
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
February 10th, 2026
Share the Love: Ride SunRunner to Localtopia for Free
SunRunner service will aid in transportation for the estimated over 40,000 attendees
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) announced the SunRunner, one of PSTA’s most popular routes in terms of ridership, will be fare-free for one St. Petersburg’s largest event, Localtopia on Saturday, February 14th. This is possible thanks in partnership with Localtopia organizers.
Last year, SunRunner provided 4,127 rides on Localtopia day, one of the highest ridership days for SunRunner.
With over 40,000 attendees, the SunRunner will provide eventgoers with an alternative way to get to the festival, boasting over 300 vendors.
Picture of a packed SunRunner Bus at Localtopia in 2025
Picture of a packed SunRunner Bus at Localtopia in 2025
The festival, founded in 2014, collectively celebrates all that makes St. Petersburg great via its arts, music, food, drinks, and culture. For more information about the festival, visit this link.
The event takes place in Williams Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Event attendees can use the 1st Ave N. and 5th St Station or the station on 1st Ave N & 1st Street. All other routes will charge standard fares.
To plan your trip, visit psta.net or use the Transit App.
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
February 5th, 2026
Federal Funding Expands Waterborne Transportation Options Across Pinellas County
Pinellas County, FL—Waterborne transportation in Pinellas County took a major step forward this week following President Donald Trump’s signing of the 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill into law. The legislation paves the way for permanent ferry infrastructure, giving residents and visitors an additional, reliable transportation option throughout the region.
The bill awards the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) two federal appropriations to support and expand ferry services in Pinellas County.
The first appropriation, worth $850,000 and sponsored by U.S. Representative Kathy Castor, will be used to construct a permanent ferry dock to be used by the Tampa Bay Ferry. The permanent dock will connect two major cities, St. Petersburg and Tampa, through efficient public transit, spur economic development, increase tourism opportunities, and reduce local congestion.
“Our neighbors need more affordable options to travel to work, home and school. Plus, our local visitors love convenient PSTA rides across Pinellas County and Tampa Bay,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “PSTA has been a good steward of tax dollars, and I am thrilled to continue to champion expanded ferry service for our growing community. This project is a win-win-win expanding transportation options, lowering costs and reducing congestion.”
“Transportation remains a major challenge for the Tampa Bay region, but with this additional funding we are one step closer to delivering a reliable Tampa Bay ferry system, offering alternative methods of transportation and reducing roadway congestion,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “I want to thank Congresswoman Kathy Castor, Brad Miller and the PSTA team, and City staff for their work in securing this funding. Through these partnerships, we will continue to deliver real and impactful results for our residents.”
“Thank you to President Trump, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), and Congresswoman Castor for their leadership and vision to help bring reliable and sustainable waterborne transportation to the Tampa Bay Region” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “This investment creates lasting regional infrastructure that gives residents and visitors more transportation choices, and fuels economic activity along our waterfront communities.”
The second appropriation, worth $828,000 and sponsored by U.S. Representative Anna Paulina Luna, will be used to restore the Ferry Dock in Dunedin and support the Clearwater Ferry service between Dunedin, Downtown Clearwater, and Clearwater Beach. This project restores a critical transit link that supports tourism, workforce mobility, and congestion relief along the intracoastal corridor.
“This $828,000 investment is a meaningful step in Dunedin’s recovery from Hurricane Milton and ensures the Clearwater Ferry can continue serving our waterfront community,” said Rob Walker, Vice Mayor of the Great City of Dunedin. “We want to thank the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority for its leadership, and Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna and her staff for securing this critical funding. The rebuilt pier will support ferry service transporting an estimated 25,000 rides in its first year, while promoting tourism, easing roadway congestion during peak travel times, and preserving the maritime character that defines our region.”
“We are incredibly grateful to President Trump, the USDOT, and Congresswoman Luna for their leadership and commitment to Pinellas County,” said Miller. “Restoring the Dunedin Ferry Dock and strengthening the Clearwater Ferry service ensures that our coastal communities remain accessible, connected, and economically vibrant for years to come.”
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
December 29th, 2025
Need a Ride on New Year’s Eve? PSTA Has Got You Covered
PSTA Offers Free and Extended Service to Keep Pinellas Residents Safe
St. Petersburg, FL—The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is helping ensure a safe and stress-free New Year’s Eve for the community by offering free service on all routes on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
In addition to free fares, select major routes, including the SunRunner, Spark, and routes 4, 18, 34, and 52, will operate extended service hours until 1:00 a.m. The SunRunner and Spark will run every 15 minutes until the early morning hours to make it easier than ever to celebrate responsibly.
“We want to provide a safe, convenient transportation option this holiday season,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “Whether you’re heading out for dinner, a party, or fireworks, riding the SunRunner or other PSTA routes ensures you’ll get home safely.”
Buses will operate on a Holiday/Sunday schedule, and PSTA’s Infoline will be available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day for route and schedule questions.
Celebrate safely and leave the driving to PSTA!
Stephanie Weaver
Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
December 10th, 2025
MEDIA ADVISORY: PSTA to Launch Newly Redesigned Website with Powerful, Improved Features
St. Petersburg, FL— The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will be entering a new era of technology. On December 11th, 2025, PSTA will unveil the agency’s newly redesigned website after a year-long research and redevelopment process.
Celtis Ventures, Inc., PSTA’s website redevelopment partner, conducted extensive research and assembled focus groups to assess the needs and wants for a new, mobile-optimized site. PSTA’s current website (psta.net) first launched in 2017 and has served the agency for the past eight years. However, transit technology and website design have made significant strides since 2017—the website was due for a major upgrade in features and usability.
Some of the improved features include:
- Trip planning right on the website
- Live bus arrival time tracking
- Easy-to-read route schedules
- Clean and easy-to-navigate site design
- Fully optimized layout for mobile users
“After years of hard work, public engagement, and collaboration across every department of PSTA, I am so pleased to launch this new website that prioritizes a clean, streamlined user navigation. Site visitors can expect robust trip planning and real-time bus information powered by the PSTA-endorsed Transit app, easy-to-read schedules, and a fully optimized mobile experience,” said Director of Marketing and Communications Amanda Baird. “Our riders, community stakeholders, and employees can all use this site as a hub to access the information they need about PSTA’s programs and services quickly and easily.”
“Having a modern website that leverages the most up-to-date technology is critical in our digital age. Our website acts as the face of our agency for the public, so upgrading its features, usability, and aesthetics has been a huge priority,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “It’s been a long road to get here, but I couldn’t be more thrilled that the new site is finally launching. With the recent launch of our newly redesigned bus network, this website acts as the next step for a new era of PSTA.”
The website launch event will be held via livestream on PSTA’s Meeting YouTube Channel at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 11th, 2025.
Amanda Boisen
Communications Specialist
C: (727) 540-1922
E: aboisen@psta.net
#
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net
For Immediate Release
December 3rd, 2025
PSTA Board Unanimously Selects Hubbard’s Marina to Operate Tampa Bay Ferry Service
Board Also votes to approve a contingent purchase of a ferry vessel
St. Petersburg, FL – The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) Board of Directors voted unanimously today to select Hubbard’s Marina as the official operator for the Tampa Bay Ferry, a major step forward in creating a reliable, sustainable, and convenient water-based transportation option for Tampa Bay residents and visitors.
The approval authorizes PSTA to enter into a five-year operating contract with Hubbard’s Marina, with an option to extend the agreement for an additional five years. This milestone follows extensive evaluation of proposals, community conversations, and strong regional support for expanding mobility options across the bay.
“Today’s vote reflects our shared commitment to developing a reliable, enjoyable, and forward-thinking ferry service for the Tampa Bay region,” said Deborah Figgs-Sanders, PSTA Board Chair and St. Petersburg City Councilwoman. “Hubbard’s Marina brings decades of maritime expertise and a deep understanding of our local waterways. Their partnership is essential to creating a service that is built to last and one that the region can be proud of.”
Hubbard’s Marina, a family-owned local business established in 1928, brings nearly a century of experience operating passenger vessels in the Gulf Coast region. Under the new contract, Tampa Bay Sea Taxi, Inc.—the company established by Hubbard’s Marina to operate the ferry—will oversee vessel management, staffing, safety, and daily operations.
The Board of Directors also approved the purchase of a ferry vessel that has been identified in the San Franscisco area—contingent on a series of tests and approvals. This ferry has a capacity of 250 passengers, while the previous Cross-Bay Ferry had a maximum capacity of only 149. The vessel must first pass all sea trials, tests, and surveys, and it must have Federal Transit Administration (FTA) approval before the purchase is ratified.
“We are excited to work with Hubbard’s Marina, alongside the City of St. Petersburg, the City of Tampa, and FTA to expand regional mobility in Tampa Bay,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “If this new vessel gets all the appropriate approvals, this will give us the opportunity to deliver a sustainable, convenient, and reliable transportation option on a quicker timeline.”
“We are honored to partner with PSTA to bring Tampa Bay the ferry service our cities deserve,” said Tara Hubbard, President and CEO of Tampa Bay Sea Taxi, Inc. “This service not only connects communities, it showcases Tampa Bay’s beauty, supports local businesses, and gives residents a new way to travel without sitting in traffic.”
The Tampa Bay Ferry is expected to offer scenic, efficient cross-bay transportation that supports commuters, tourists, and recreational riders alike, easing roadway congestion while providing a memorable travel experience on the water.
“To do this right, each step will take time. We’re designing a new service that’s sustainable, not restarting an old one that struggled to pay its bills,” PSTA Chair Figgs-Sanders said. PSTA has already identified significant savings over the previous Cross-Bay Ferry by using federal grant dollars to purchase one or more vessels and contracting with a local company to operate the service, instead of an out-of-state firm with crew members who traveled to Tampa Bay and stayed in hotels.”
“We’re excited about the next steps: right boat, right docks, right process. For the right boat, the best option for long-term success could be the slowest: ordering one or more new boats. For the right docks, long-term success hinges on the right locations, which may require permitting and construction. And, for the right process, we’ll create long-term repeat customers by hiring an exceptional crew and making trips seamless,” added Figgs-Sanders.
Stephanie Weaver
PSTA Communications & Public Relations Manager
C: (727) 249-6542
E: sweaver@psta.net
ABOUT PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Since 1903, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has served 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 10.7 million rides annually. For more information about PSTA, visit www.psta.net