St. Pete Beach won’t renew its contract with Freebee shuttle service on Sept. 30. Money will go elsewhere.
The City Manager released a statement explaining the choice. “While we recognize that Freebee has provided a convenient transportation option for residents and visitors, the commission determined that, given the city’s current financial position and competing priorities, it is in the best interest of the community to redirect those funds.”
Nick Jennings rides at least twice each week to reach the beach. The program’s end will cost him more money, he said.
“Lyft and Uber, to go half a mile is $10 … I do a Freebee for like $3 … I can go three or four trips going to different places for under $20 a day,” Jennings said to TampaBay28.
Patrick Stout drives for Freebee. His job disappears when the contract stops. He’ll miss it.
“It’s hard right now. I’m just taking it one day at a time, and just enjoying the last eight, nine days left,” Stout said. “It’s one big giant family.”
Tourists ride to Corey Avenue and shop at stores nearby. Mary Cunningham works at Swigwam Beach Bar. She thinks local businesses will take a hit.
“Such a shame. You know, if you’re down on the south end of the beach, a lot of people don’t have a way to get to and from the different areas,” said Cunningham. Her bar has operated there for 17 years.
Jennings said the loss creates big problems. “Unfortunately, a lot of people that are local to this area are about to suffer.”
Residents and visitors who depend on shuttles must find other options after Sept. 30. Freebee has offered rides across St. Pete Beach, helping people skip parking fees and traffic jams.