From Streetcars to SunRunner: 40 years of PSTA driving Pinellas forward

An SPMTS bus accepting passengers bound for Gateway Mall. (PSTA Archives)

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has been a key part of life in Pinellas County for decades. From its early streetcar days to its modern-day bus rapid transit system, PSTA has adapted and grown alongside the community. Today, it remains the essential service that connects people to the places that matter most. Click here you want to take a deeper dive into the rich history of this service (Parts 1, 2, and 3)

PSTA’s dedication was especially evident during the recent hurricanes. Bus operators and the communications team worked around the clock to get residents to shelters free of charge. After the storms, PSTA suspended fares to ease the financial strain on the community. This commitment to service has been a hallmark of the organization, which continues to grow and expand its routes throughout the county.

bus at a stop
The Sunrunner provides quick, convenient rides from downtown St. Pete to the beaches

PSTA is vitally essential to the community

PSTA’s services are more popular than ever. It’s not just a way to get to work or the store; it’s a vital part of getting people to significant events. Whether it’s Localtopia, St. Pete Pride, Halloween on Central, or a Rays game, PSTA ensures everyone can enjoy the fun. The agency regularly breaks passenger records, proving that its impact on the community continues to grow.

The SunRunner Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service, launched in 2022, has become a favorite travel method. Connecting St. Pete Beach to downtown St. Pete, SunRunner offers fast, reliable service with its dedicated lane and frequent stops. For anyone looking to get around car-free, it’s the perfect solution.

black and white photo of a streetcar on the road
St. Petersburg’s first streetcar (car #1) at the start of Central Avenue next to its powerhouse in 1903. (Courtesy of the St. Petersburg Museum of History)

Committed to sustainability and public health

PSTA isn’t just about convenience; it’s also committed to sustainability. Their Sustainable Strategic Plan (SSP) outlines a straightforward approach to sustainability using the triple bottom line—focusing on community health, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. The plan aims to meet energy, water, waste, and emissions goals, aligning with the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) Sustainability Commitment Program. These efforts help ensure that PSTA meets today’s needs and plans for the future.

two trolleys on a track - black and white
Trolleys entering the Gulfport Line switch, c. 1910. (PSTA Archives)

The history of the streetcar in St. Pete

The history of public transit in Pinellas County dates back to the early 1900s. In 1903 the first streetcar line ran from St. Petersburg to Disston City (now Gulfport). By 1919, the first bus appeared on the streets of St. Petersburg. This was no ordinary bus—it was a unique creation made by welding two Ford automobiles together to form a six-wheeled vehicle. A few years later, in 1926, the St. Petersburg Municipal Transit System (SPMTS) purchased its first gas-powered bus, and by June, it had eight buses in service.

The year 1949 marked the end of the streetcar era in Pinellas County. On May 7, the last streetcar made its final trip to Gulfport. From then on, SPMTS operated exclusively with buses, closing the door on the southernmost streetcar system in the U.S.

1978, the first open-air trolley service began along the St. Petersburg waterfront. It was an instant hit, with over 4,000 riders in its first week of service. This success laid the foundation for the future of public transit in the area.

a bus parked in front of town hall
A St. Petersburg Municipal Transit System Bus. (PSTA Archives)

Launching with 128 buses serving 79 routes

By 1984, PSTA officially became the county’s public transit provider, with 128 buses serving 79 routes. In 1997 PSTA reached a significant milestone—carrying its 100 millionth passenger. This was a testament to how deeply rooted PSTA had become in the lives of Pinellas County residents.

Then, in 2022, PSTA made waves with the launch of the SunRunner, a groundbreaking Bus Rapid Transit system. The SunRunner features dedicated lanes and quick service, running every 15 minutes until 8 p.m. It connects St. Pete Beach to downtown St. Pete, making exploring the area without a car more straightforward. With twelve sleek, clean hybrid-electric buses, the SunRunner is the latest example of PSTA’s commitment to innovation and service.

a large centralized bus station on a sunny day with multiple buses traveling in and out
PSTA’s new Central Plaza Intermodal Terminal (renamed Grand Central Station in 2009). (PSTA Archives)

UPass Programs make transit easier for those who need it most

Looking back on 40 years of service, PSTA has continually evolved to meet the community’s needs. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—connecting people to opportunities, events, and each other. As the county grows, so does PSTA, ensuring that it remains a vital part of life in Pinellas County.

Today, its programs continue to benefit the St. Pete community. All veterans ride PSTA’s fixed routes for free.

PSTA’s UPass program allows businesses and nonprofit organizations to pay PSTA an annual discounted rate in exchange for unlimited public transit access for their guests, employees, and/or students. USF, Eckerd College, Tradewinds Resorts, and the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood all currently particpate.

a group of people posing in front of a trolley
Members of the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association celebrate the launch of area’s UPass program
a group of people pose with an award in front of an office building
PSTA’s Board of Directors celebrates PSTA’s Transit System of the Year award. (PSTA Archives)

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