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New Connected Community Bus Network Launched in St. Petersburg

The new SunRunner station in downtown St. Petersburg features modern amenities and electric buses.

News Summary

St. Petersburg is making strides in public transit with the introduction of the Connected Community Bus Network by PSTA. This initiative is aimed at improving bus route efficiency while ensuring a cost-neutral implementation. Key features include the launch of a new SunRunner station and an exciting service called ‘SunRunner After Dark,’ enhancing transportation options for local residents. With upgraded amenities and community support, these changes reflect PSTA’s commitment to adapting to evolving transportation needs.

Exciting Changes for Public Transit in St. Petersburg!

St. Petersburg is buzzing with excitement as the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) rolls out its brand new Connected Community Bus Network. This initiative isn’t just a minor tweak—it’s touted as one of the largest community engagement efforts in PSTA’s entire history and is designed to improve bus services in the area.

What is the Connected Community Bus Network?

The Connected Community Bus Network aims to enhance bus route efficiency while significantly improving transfer times for riders. As communities evolve and grow, so do their transportation needs, and this program seeks to adapt to those demands without straining the budget. Best of all, the whole initiative is cost-neutral, making it a great step forward for public transit!

A New Spot for SunRunner

In addition to the new network, PSTA has also introduced a sparkling new SunRunner station in downtown St. Petersburg. The station, conveniently located near the Sundial parking garage along 1st Ave. N, is set to operate every 15 minutes, providing a reliable option for commuters and visitors alike.

SunRunner After Dark

But that’s not all! PSTA is launching new services titled “SunRunner After Dark.” This exciting program will increase bus frequency and capacity on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to midnight. Whether you’re heading out for dinner or a late-night event, the SunRunner bus will be a dependable option for safe travel.

Years of Planning Come to Life

The completion of the new station reflects years of hard work between PSTA and federal, state, and local partners. Construction of the station took about four months after breaking ground in August of the previous year. It shows just how much can be achieved when communities pull together to enhance public transit.

SunRunner’s Impressive Track Record

The original SunRunner project, which began in 2022, wrapped up under budget by an impressive $5.8 million! This financial wiggle room allowed PSTA to add the new station and three more buses without incurring extra costs. With a fleet consisting entirely of 100% electric buses, SunRunner has become one of the most popular services PSTA offers.

Rider Milestone on the Horizon

As the buzz around the new services continues to grow, PSTA is quickly approaching a milestone of two million riders. This remarkable figure highlights how effective the SunRunner line has become in meeting the transportation needs of the public.

Upgraded Amenities

The new SunRunner station is equipped with fantastic amenities. It features 14-inch elevated platforms that make boarding easier for everyone, real-time signage to keep riders informed, and off-bus ticketing to get you on the bus quickly. Accessibility has also been a priority, with improved crosswalks and ramps in place for those with mobility challenges.

Community Support and Funding

In 2020, PSTA received a grant of $21.8 million from the Federal Transit Administration, which covered about half of the SunRunner’s capital costs. The rest of the project has been jointly funded by the Florida Department of Transportation, PSTA, and the City of St. Petersburg. In 2024 alone, they secured an additional $27.8 million in federal funding to support the ongoing expansion of the SunRunner line.

Safety on the Roads

With all these new initiatives, safety is a prime focus for PSTA as well. Their efforts in enhanced traffic management and dedicated lanes have already paid off, with a noticeable drop in accidents along the SunRunner corridor. Crashes have decreased from over 800 to fewer than 600 in the year following the launch of the service.

The Future is Bright for St. Petersburg’s Public Transit

With all these new changes, PSTA is paving the way for a truly connected community in St. Petersburg. The future looks bright for public transit, and riders can look forward to even better services that adapt to their needs. Get ready to hop on board!