St. Petersburg Welcomes New City Council Leadership and SunRunner Station

News Summary

St. Petersburg is undergoing significant changes with the introduction of new City Council leadership and the launch of a new SunRunner transportation station. Copley Gerdes and Lisset Hanewicz take charge as chair and vice chair of the council, aiming to energize governance. Additionally, the new SunRunner station, providing increased connectivity in downtown, allows for improved public transport services, including an initiative to enhance nightlife mobility. These developments promise a vibrant future for the city and its community.

Exciting Changes in St. Petersburg: New City Council Leadership and SunRunner Station!

St. Petersburg is buzzing with fresh energy as the City Council welcomes new leadership and celebrates the launch of an innovative transportation station. On January 2, 2025, Copley Gerdes from District 1 officially took the reins as council chair, accompanied by Lisset Hanewicz from District 4, who stepped into the role of vice chair. This new duo promises to bring a lively and focused approach to governance, adding a spark to the city’s progress.

Gerdes, who doubles as a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual, has a heart for the community. He also leads an organization called Love McKinley, dedicated to supporting families impacted by pediatric cancer. Hanewicz brings her own impressive background; as a former assistant state attorney raised by Cuban exiles, she brings a unique perspective that will surely enrich the council’s discussions. Both members were elected to the City Council in 2021, and their fresh leadership is already creating a buzz in the community.

Year-Round Fresh Finds at Gulfport Fresh Market

In other exciting local news, the Gulfport Fresh Market, a beloved institution that started in 2006, has announced it will now operate year-round every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. What began with just a few vendors has transformed into a vibrant market sprawled across four city blocks. Residents and visitors can look forward to a delightful experience with fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts filling the air with wonderful aromas and charming vibes.

Launching the New SunRunner Station

The project came in an impressive $5 million under budget, which has enabled the addition of the new station along with three new buses to the fleet. This enhancement will provide a bus service every 15 minutes, which is sure to make traveling through downtown a breeze.

Introducing “SunRunner After Dark” Initiative

In a bid to improve nightlife mobility, a new initiative called “SunRunner After Dark” is launching, which offers enhanced bus services on Friday and Saturday nights. Now, visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife with pickups every 15 minutes from 6 a.m. to midnight, making it easier than ever to explore all that St. Petersburg has to offer after hours.

The inaugural SunRunner route was completed in 2022 using a fleet of 100% electric buses, setting the stage for sustainability and eco-friendly transport. To add a cherry on top, local representatives and transportation authorities have noted a drop in accidents along the SunRunner corridors, attributed to the improved service and community awareness.

A Commitment to Accessibility and Safety

The new SunRunner station is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring elevated platforms, improved crosswalks, and real-time signage to keep everyone informed. This thoughtful design aims to enhance safety and convenience for all, ensuring that public transportation is a viable option for everyone in the area.

Future Growth for the SunRunner Line

Looking ahead, it’s exciting to note that PSTA has received a significant boost in funding. In 2024, they secured $27.8 million in federal dollars to continue the expansion of the SunRunner line, promising even more connectivity and options for the growing population of St. Petersburg.

With an energized City Council, a flourishing Gulfport Fresh Market, and a rapidly developing public transportation system, St. Petersburg is certainly on a trajectory towards an even brighter future. The city’s residents can expect to see positive changes that enhance their daily lives and promote greater community interaction. It’s a wonderful time to be a part of this vibrant city!