St. Petersburg City Council Approves Free Public Transit for Low-Income Riders

October 13, 2023 - The City of St. Petersburg is pleased to announce that, effective November 1, 2023, all persons living in St. Petersburg who are enrolled in the Transportation Disadvantaged fare reduction program through the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will now have the remainder of their monthly bus fare fully covered. Anyone who qualifies will have equal access to all PSTA routes and services, including all services in Pinellas County and service to Tampa.

This initiative is a result of the City's Fiscal Year 2024 recommended budget proposed by Mayor Welch, which was approved by St. Petersburg City Council on September 28, and is now in effect.

"Transportation access to healthy food, one's job, school, vocational training, and medical appointments is a basic necessity, that when fulfilled, leads to overall, better outcomes for the entire community," said St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “This opportunity was made possible because of our strong partnership with PSTA. I'm also grateful to City Council for their unanimous support for this new program which helps our neighbors in the most need have access to reliable transportation.”

This positive step forward ensures everyone has equitable access to the City's wide network of public transportation. The City works diligently with PSTA and other partners to continue growing support and assistance for the community, and is proud to be able to provide transportation on a larger scale.

More information about PSTA's services, routes, and the Transportation Disadvantaged program can be found at www.psta.net.