Free Bus Rides Offered In Pinellas For National Car-Free Day Thursday

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — On Thursday, in celebration of World Car-Free Day, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority will be fare-free for all riders on all routes.

World Car-Free Day is celebrated by thousands of cities and communities to encourage the use of alternate modes of transportation for a day. According to the World Health Organization, approximately seven million people die each year from air pollution.

“One of the easiest ways we can reduce our carbon footprint is by taking public transportation,” said Brad Miller, chief executive officer of the PSTA. “PSTA is committed to becoming more environmentally friendly and you can, too, by hopping on a bus and let us take you to your destination.”

The typical passenger vehicle emits 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year while each of PSTA’s electric buses reduce 135 tons of carbon emissions from the air per year.

“This solidifies PSTA’s status as the transit agency in our region most dedicated to protecting the environment,” said Nicole Roberts of Car-Free St. Pete. “There are so many economic, environmental and health benefits of taking car-free trips.”

PSTA is also sponsoring Wheels & Reels in the Park, hosted with Car-Free St. Pete on Sept. 22 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Williams Park in St. Petersburg. Those attending will be treated to a free showing of "PeeWee's Big Adventure" starting at 7:30 p.m. A bike valet will be available. Bring blankets or chairs and order dinner from a favorite restaurant around the park.

“By encouraging the community to join us in Williams Park by walking, biking, scooting or taking the bus, we hope that the community will see how fun and easy it can be to come to downtown car-free as well,” said Roberts.