The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has broken ground on the region’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, the SunRunner, which will connect Pinellas County’s beaches with the Sunshine City.
“This is a historic day and a long time coming,” said Brad Miller, PSTA CEO. “Ultimately, we hope this will be the first piece of a larger BRT puzzle that connects all of our communities, reduces congestion and improves our lives.”
U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist (D-FL-13) delivered a $21.8 million-dollar check from the Federal Transit Administration for the project. In May, the president announced PSTA would be awarded the money for the SunRunner.
“As a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, I’ve been proud to provide funding to support PSTA as they work to connect our growing beach communities and St. Pete’s exciting Central Avenue districts,” said Crist. “I look forward to the completion of the SunRunner and the opportunities it will bring to support our local businesses, drive tourism, and propel sustainable development for generations to come.”
“The 10.3-mile line will improve mobility and access to jobs, health care, educational opportunities and other critical community services in the region,” said FTA Deputy Administrator K. Jane Williams
The SunRunner’s 40-foot buses, which feature artwork by Chad Mize and include a Mr. Sun image, are expected to arrive in 2021. The SunRunner line is expected to be completed in early 2022.
“Projects like the SunRunner are critical to our region’s success. We must keep investing in infrastructure that connects our unique neighborhoods to jobs, education, and recreation and PSTA is showing it can be done here in Tampa Bay,” said PSTA Board Chair Joe Barkley.
The SunRunner will feature semi-dedicated lanes, limited stops and safety enhancements for riders including level boarding platforms and crosswalks. The 10.3-mile line will include 16 stops with buses running every 15 minutes.
