TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — The Tarpon Springs City Council has signaled consensus approval to explore creating a shuttle service that would connect several key areas of the city, including downtown and the Sponge Docks.

What You Need To Know

Tarpon Springs City Council is exploring the purchase of shuttles to help showcase different parts of the city

City leaders want to help boost tourism using shuttles

Officials are looking at the possibility of purchasing at least two shuttles, estimating the cost could be under $100,000

The city council will decide in December 

The potential service comes as the city continues efforts to rebrand its image and attract more visitors.

Tarpon Springs is considering a shuttle that would link its busiest areas with locations that don’t currently see as much foot traffic.

Susan Swenson, owner of Sunshine Eco-Finds Resale Boutique on Pinellas Avenue, said the service would be a welcome addition.

“People do not want to walk, so they can come to my shop. I can extend my hours. They can go to the Sponge City Brewery and all these other places that are now developing,” she said.

Swenson believes more visitors would help fuel economic growth and encourage further investment.

“So to improve our economic vitality — people wanting to invest, our safety and the list goes on and on — I think it’s very important,” she said.

City leaders are looking at the possibility of purchasing at least two shuttles, estimating the cost could be under $100,000.

“You know, they use it in New Port Richey. It’s a way that you can get on and off wherever you really need to…it’s just an all-around plus,” one city official said, noting the shuttles could be resold if the program doesn’t work out.

Vice Mayor Mike Eisner called the idea a “no-brainer.”

“If you’re handicapped, you could park in a parking lot and get on. This will be ADA approved,” he said. “Truthfully, I love the idea so much, I want to be the first driver… I’ve already had three people come up and want to be a driver as well.”

Swenson said the service would address a major concern for visitors.

“People aren’t comfortable walking here. If they can’t find a parking space, they don’t want to go,” she said. “If we can improve the ability to be mobile — park your car once and go up and down, go to the beautiful restaurants at the Sponge Docks, the shops, and Tarpon Avenue — I think that would be great.”

City officials and local business owners agree the shuttle could help visitors explore more parts of the city.

The next step is determining the exact cost, and a final decision could come as soon as December.