SunRunner Remains Fare-Free Through November: PSTA

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The SunRunner, a 10.3-mile bus rapid transit service that travels between downtown St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach, will continue to offer fare-free rides through November, according to a Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority news release.

The service launched Oct. 21 and was initially promoted to be fare-free through April 30, after six months.

“The first three months of SunRunner service has been successful in attracting new riders and increasing community sentiment for public transportation,” PSTA said. “Ridership has exceeded 260,000 passengers, with each month showing a growth in ridership.”

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• PSTA Considers SunRunner Bus Expansion: Report
• SunRunner Attracts More Than 10,000 Riders During 1st Weekend

The PSTA will introduce a contactless fare payment system for the SunRunner this summer. This system will accept VISA, Mastercard, and other tappable credit and debit card options.

It will also recognize discounted fares for senior citizens and people with disabilities. This will enable the SunRunner to charge all fare levels when the system begins accepting fares later this year.

“We have seen an amazing response from the community regarding the SunRunner, it now has the highest ridership in our system,” Brad Miller, CEO of PSTA, said. “Riders have been using the service to get to work, medical appointments and to our award-winning beaches. To continue to offer the SunRunner free, we will be able to attract even more passengers to enjoy our easy and convenient service.”

Because the service was completed under budget, the PSTA is left with $5.3 million in federal funds and officials are considering using the money to add a new stop near the St. Pete Pier, the Tampa Bay Times recently reported.