Groundbreaking for new SunRunner station in downtown St. Pete: PSTA

The Bus Rapid Transit service connects St. Pete Beach with downtown.

The new station is located near the Sundial parking garage at 150 1st Ave. N.

“The SunRunner has been a game changer for our region, providing high-performance transportation options that benefit everyone,” said Florida Senator Darryl Rouson. “The PSTA’s commitment to connectivity is evident in its efforts to get new people to try public transit and the positive impact it has on our community. It is a testament to what can be accomplished when we invest in our transportation infrastructure.”

The SunRunner was launched in October 2022 with the goal of “attracting new riders to public transit, improving the lives of residents, businesses and visitors, and contributing to a safer, cleaner community,” the press release said.

The SunRunner surpassed 1 million riders in its first year and remains one of PSTA’s top-performing lines, according to the PSTA. It recently recorded its highest ridership ever on June 22.

The transit line has a limited number of stops and takes passengers from the beach to downtown in about 40 minutes.

Thanks to frequent services every 15 minutes during peak times, passengers do not have to wait long. The new downtown station, together with three new SunRunner buses, will maintain the promised 15-minute frequency.

“It’s an incredible win for our community,” said Gina Driscoll, PSTA board chair and St. Pete City Council member. “The SunRunner is helping St. Petersburg become an even safer and cleaner community. The hybrid electric vehicles reduce the number of cars on the road and lower carbon dioxide emissions. Traffic accidents have also dropped significantly since the corridor opened.”

According to officials, $9 billion worth of construction projects have been started along the corridor since the SunRunner began operating.

The line serves more than 50,000 jobs and 40,000 residents within a half-mile radius.

“The new SunRunner station will bring great benefits to tourists visiting our area and staying at hotels like Hyatt Place,” said Stephen Nunez, general manager of Hyatt Place St. Petersburg Downtown. “The service makes life more convenient for both residents and businesses by providing workers with easy access to their jobs, strengthening our local economy and ensuring our city remains a top destination for visitors.”