Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) is very literally the group that keeps us moving. Living near Downtown, the SunRunner is a weekly part of my schedule and is the beginning and end point for catching sunset happy hour on the beach.
With the recent launch of PSTA’s new route servicing Tampa International Airport, we took a step back to look at the full scope of what the county-wide agency actually does. Turns out, if you’ve only been using it for rides around downtown on the SunRunner (guilty!), there’s much more to take advantage of, and it’s all cost-effective, if not downright free in many cases.
With the weather having turned to a perfect Florida Fall, now is the time to get out and explore. Here are eight things you may not know that PSTA does, all of which help us get out and about around St. Pete, Pinellas County, and even beyond to TPA.
These are the hidden gems in our public transportation system, and the things PSTA does to make our community stronger.
PSTA Partners and the UPASS Program
In kind partnerships fuel mutual growth by allowing PSTA and local organizations to support one another through shared resources and creative co promotion—strengthening our connection with the community, riders and visitors. For more info, visit: psta.net/partners
Meanwhile, PSTA’s UPASS Program began way back in 2014. From students and teachers to hospital and hotel employees, PSTA’s UPASS program provides free rides on board PSTA services. For more info and to see if you qualify, visit: psta.net/upass.
PSTA keeps people moving
Transit shouldn’t have barriers, and at PSTA, anything is possible. Whether you can’t independently ride a bus or are unable to afford the fare, PSTA has a handful of assistance programs ready for you, whenever you are.
PSTA’s TD Program offers low fares for those whose household income does not exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty level, helping those in need get where they need to be.
Meanwhile, PSTA’s Paratransit Program provides pre-scheduled, shared rides with door-to-door service to help passengers with all types of disabilities get safely and comfortably to their destinations. There is also an option for unshared, curb-to-curb rides through partners like Uber, Lyft, zTrip, and wheelchair service; most MOD drivers aren’t required to provide assistance to or from your door, so it’s something to consider when booking your ride.
To and from TPA and PIE
The new TPA route got the headlines, but PSTA has two airport services now. The 727 Airport Express runs to/from Tampa International Airport, starting and ending in Downtown St. Pete. More info and the full schedule is available at psta.net/727.
Meanwhile, the Grouper Airport Express takes travelers to/from St Pete-Clearwater International Airport. This on-demand service can take you or pick you up ANYWHERE on Clearwater Beach and is available seven days a week. Fares range depending on need: $10 (Single Rider), $30 (up 4 people), $40 (5-8 people). Find more info and schedule a ride at psta.net/grouper.
It’s time to get on the apps again
Everything (almost) is easier through an app, and public transit is no exception. The official Transit App is your go-to, PSTA approved app that transforms your rider experience into an immersive game. Use Transit App to plan your trip, track your bus, and choose your own avatar to compete against other riders to become each route’s #1 top rider! You can get the app at psta.net/transitapp.
Taking care of those in need
Did you know: PSTA has an e-receptacle! In an effort to equip underserved Pinellas County riders with a smart phone, PSTA has teamed up with E-Smart Recycling. With this partnership, they’ve installed an e-receptacle at PSTA’s Administrative building, and they hope to continue to provide phones to riders who need them.
Explore Clearwater, Tarpon Springs and more
It’s time to explore and get out of St. Pete. With trolleys, ferries and on-demand services, PSTA is your key to northern Pinellas County. There are several great options to choose from here.
Jolley Trolley – Enjoy the coastal breeze on the beach or the Greek vibes in Tarpon Springs on board PSTA’s Jolley Trolley services! These open-air trolleys transport you back in time while relishing in the timeless gems that northern Pinellas County has to offer. For more info, visit: https://www.clearwaterjolleytrolley.com/
Clearwater Ferry – PSTA’s premier waterborne service takes you from Downtown Clearwater to Clearwater Beach and/or Downtown Dunedin! On Thursdays-Sundays, skip the road traffic and set sail on PSTA’s Clearwater Ferry Blue and Red Lines. For more info, visit psta.net/clearwaterferry
Snapper On-Demand – Snapper is an on-demand transportation option serving parts of Clearwater. The service is designed to help you connect to PSTA bus service, either as the first leg of your trip or the final leg of your trip between PSTA transfer centers at Park Street Terminal and Countryside Mall.
Skyway Marina District, Eckerd College – next stop, South St. Pete
While the name on everybody’s lips is SunRunner, don’t forget about PSTA’s newest premium express service, the Spark. This service provides express rides from Grand Central Station to the Skyway Marina District and was built with commuters in mind, with stops in front of St. Pete College, Sprouts, Vintage Marche and Eckerd College. Whether you’re a student, thrift store queen or just going to buy some groceries, the Spark connects you where you need to go in a flash. You can find the full route at psta.net/spark.
Free rides around Downtown St. Pete
As long as we’re out and about, you can explore downtown St. Pete for FREE on board select PSTA services.
Downtown Looper – From world-class museums to buzzing breweries, waterfront parks to cutting-edge galleries, this cultural hub has more to explore than you can probably fit in one day. Learn more at psta.net/downtown-looper.
Central Avenue Trolley – Running between the iconic St. Pete Pier and bustling Grand Central Station, this service gives you a front-row seat to Pinellas County’s most-traveled corridor. With service every 20 minutes, it’s designed for residents running errands and visitors soaking up the city—no fare required, thanks to our partnership with the City of St. Petersburg. For more info, visit psta.net/central-avenue-trolley.
And don’t forget, the new Tampa Bay Ferry service is launching soon, connecting Downtown St. Pete to Downtown Tampa.