The newly opened SunRunner station welcomes commuters in the bustling downtown area.
St. Petersburg inaugurates a new SunRunner station at 150 1st Avenue North, enhancing connectivity to the Pier District and local businesses. The station is part of an evolving public transport system, offering over 30 stops along a 10.3-mile route. Completed under budget, it aims to boost foot traffic and support local commerce, while the upcoming ‘SunRunner After Dark’ service promises more convenience for night riders.
St. Petersburg is buzzing with excitement as a brand-new SunRunner station has officially opened its doors in the heart of downtown at 150 1st Avenue North. This eagerly awaited addition is designed to offer even better connectivity to the vibrant St. Pete Pier District and the trendy local businesses lining Beach Drive. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together various dignitaries and local leaders who celebrated this latest step in enhancing public transport.
The creation of the station, which took a mere six months to complete, is seen as a significant achievement in the evolution of public transportation in the area. The new stop is perfectly positioned near fan-favorite local eateries and watering holes like Who’s on First, Tequila Daisy, and Social Roost, making it a prime spot for both commuters and visitors alike.
For those who may not be aware, the SunRunner service began its journey in October 2022 and boasts over 30 stops along its impressive 10.3-mile bus rapid transit route. This route effectively links the bustling downtown St. Petersburg to the relaxing shores of St. Pete Beach, utilizing dedicated lanes on 1st Avenue North and South. The SunRunner has proven to be a hit, serving a staggering 2 million riders since its inception.
Much of the success behind the SunRunner project is attributed to decades of planning and collaboration among various levels of government and local agencies. The project was completed at a total cost of $44 million, coming in $5 million under budget. This surplus allowed for the incorporation of the new station, showcasing smart spending and planning.
The new station has gained praise from local business owners, emphasizing its positive impact on employee commutes and customer accessibility. The infusion of foot traffic thanks to the SunRunner will undoubtedly benefit local shops and restaurants.
Innovative solutions like the SunRunner are noted for their potential to reduce living costs, strengthen community ties, and contribute positively to the environment. As a testament to its effective design, the dedicated bus lanes have led to a noticeable decline in vehicular accidents along the SunRunner corridor, enhancing safety for everyone.
The station’s design pays homage to the local arts scene, featuring stunning artwork created by renowned St. Pete-based glass artist Catherine Woods. This artistic flair adds a unique and community-centric atmosphere to the station, making it not just a functional space but also a cultural gem.
Exciting news for night owls is the upcoming introduction of “SunRunner After Dark” service. This new late-night offering will double the number of buses running on Friday and Saturday nights for a smooth and safe experience. Riders can anticipate pickups every 15 minutes from 6 a.m. until midnight—a significant upgrade to the previous schedule, which had pickups every 30 minutes from 8 p.m. to midnight.
The city is investing in this new expanded late-night service using funds initially set aside to make the SunRunner fare-free. These changes are a step toward enriching the public transport experience for residents and visitors alike, making traveling through St. Petersburg more convenient and enjoyable than ever.
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