PSTA reveals major service changes including bus stop eliminations in Pinellas County

The City of Oldsmar Council meeting on April 1, 2025, focused on significant changes to local public transportation routes, particularly those managed by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA). The discussion highlighted the impact of funding constraints on ridership and the need for efficient service delivery.

A key point of concern was the proposed elimination of several bus stops along Saint Petersburg Drive, which were identified as having low ridership. The council member emphasized the importance of these stops for community access, particularly for vulnerable populations. The changes are part of a broader network redesign that PSTA has been developing over the past 18 months, which aims to streamline services while ensuring compliance with federal regulations regarding socioeconomic impacts.

The new plan will introduce a circulator route, designated as 78 A and 78 B, which will operate seven days a week, a notable improvement over the previous limited service. However, the council member expressed concerns about the elimination of specific stops, particularly those near community services like the library. The rationale for the changes included the proximity of some stops to others that would remain operational.

The council member noted that while there was strong support for the overall plan, the process had been largely predetermined, with significant investment already made in the consultant-led redesign. A six-month rollout period was announced, during which PSTA will actively communicate the changes to the public to minimize confusion.

In conclusion, the council plans to invite PSTA representatives to present the public input process and the data behind the changes, ensuring that community voices are heard as the new transportation plan is implemented. The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing budgetary constraints with the need for accessible public transportation in Oldsmar.