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PSTA’s 'Connected Community Bus' unveiled; Forward Pinellas hears implementation plan and outreach schedule
Summary
PSTA staff presented the connected community bus network approved by the PSTA board March 26 — a cost‑neutral reconfiguration that expands seven‑day service, improves frequency on core corridors and increases job access on evenings and weekends; Forward Pinellas discussed coordination and outreach.
PSTA officials presented their newly adopted Connected Community Bus Network to the Forward Pinellas board on April 9, describing a cost‑neutral reconfiguration intended to deliver clearer, more consistent and better‑connected bus service across Pinellas County.
Jacob Lobutka, planning manager at PSTA, said the plan — approved by the PSTA board March 26 — reorganizes routes to provide more frequent service on core corridors, extend spans to operate seven days a week on most routes, improve timed transfers at major terminals and introduce limited‑stop premium service in parts of South County. PSTA characterized the rework as achievable within the existing fleet and operating budget.
PSTA presented modeling that shows improved access to jobs across the county with the plan, particularly in the evenings and on weekends; for an average resident, PSTA staff reported a roughly 6% increase in one‑hour job access during a weekday mid‑day, and larger percentage increases for transit‑dependent populations. Staff said outreach included public hearings, on‑bus surveys, events and stakeholder meetings; survey responses were more favorable than typical for system redesigns.
Next steps: PSTA will finalize schedules, coordinate operations and begin a public information campaign ahead of an implementation target this fall. PSTA staff asked Forward Pinellas members to help host outreach in their communities and offered further briefings for local elected officials.
Why it matters: The plan aims to shift limited operating resources to increase frequency and seven‑day coverage where demand is strongest, reduce transfer wait times and improve job access for transit‑dependent residents. PSTA said the changes are intended to be implemented together to maximize network effects.
Board reaction: Forward Pinellas members praised the outreach and asked staff to coordinate closely on timing, terminal work and any local impacts.
