With the largest grant of its kind ever awarded to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), the nation’s top transit agency is set to enhance its industry-leading efforts in cost reduction and sustainability. PSTA proudly announced it will receive $27.8 million in federal grants to expand its growing fleet of eco-friendly vehicles.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has confirmed funds to purchase at least 16 all-electric and hybrid-electric buses, along with the necessary charging infrastructure. Additionally, these funds will support workforce development and training for PSTA employees on best practices for maintaining this modern technology.

$27.8 million grant will help enhance PSTA’s sustainable fleet

“Not only will these electric buses make our community more environmentally friendly, they are a financially smart investment, saving tens of thousands of dollars in diesel fuel and maintenance expenses over their lives. Receiving this good news is just another sign of why PSTA was named the best transit agency in the nation,” said Gina Driscoll, Chair of the PSTA Board of Directors and St. Petersburg City Council member. 

“This is the next chapter in a brand new future of transportation options for the people of Pinellas County, making our community more environmentally friendly and the best place to live, work, and play. I am so proud to help lead PSTA because the agency is always looking to the future to innovate and help our community.”  

16 all-electric and hybrid-electric buses coming to Pinellas

Currently, PSTA operates a fleet of 12 electric and 92 hybrid-electric buses. Over the next five years, PSTA will receive a total of 62 all-electric buses to replace its diesel models. This new funding will enable PSTA to phase out its oldest diesel buses and transition to a fleet of low and no-emission all-electric and hybrid-electric buses. All of PSTA’s new buses will be manufactured in California by the Gillig Bus Corporation, using components that meet all Buy America requirements.

“We are extremely thankful for the USDOT for their continued support of public transportation and their commitment to a sustainable future,” said Brad Miller, Chief Executive Officer of PSTA. “This investment will replace the oldest diesel buses in our fleet that are 19 years old and far past their useful, reliable life. It will be a total game-changer for not only the riders who rely on PSTA to get them to work, school and medical appointments but the entire Pinellas County community.” 

Greater federal support for public transportation

Federal support for bus projects over the last several years has been instrumental in moving people and helping communities advance their climate goals.   

“I want to congratulate PSTA and CEO Brad Miller. They did a wonderful job in applying for this grant,” said Polly Trottenberg, Deputy Secretary of FTA. “We got a total of around $9 billion in requests, so it was very competitive, and Pinellas County—you had one of the best applications.” 

PSTA’s award of $27.8 million was the 12th largest award and the largest in the state of Florida.