PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — On Wednesday, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority unveiled new zero-emission electric buses and a program that ensures everyone can enjoy the new transportation fleet, regardless of income.
The new buses were funded by a Volkswagon settlement after the company was found cheating in emissions testing. Not only will cleaner buses be on our roads, but a new program will offer free rides to qualifying residents.
Tom Sullivan is a 70-year-old disabled veteran. He said PSTA transportation is why he's able to live an independent and fulfilled life.
"I use it every day, several times a day," Sullivan said. "Going to Walmart from my grocery shopping, taking it to Grand Central Station to get the bus to Bay Pines for some of my VA care."
Right now, Sullivan pays $11 a month for unlimited rides. Now, as a St. Pete resident, that cost is about to be completely covered.
"When you're on limited means it's you know, we have to watch every dollar and I'm grateful that with this card, transportation is not taking a major part of my budget," Sullivan shared.
Starting Nov. 1, the city of St. Pete is covering the monthly cost Sullivan and other Sunshine City residents pay to be a part of the PSTA Transportation Disadvantaged Program. In order to qualify for the program, you have to live in Pinellas County, make less than 200% of the federal poverty guideline, and use it for basic needs like getting to work, getting to the doctor's office or going to school.
Along with a new fleet of zero-emission buses, more accessibility means more possibilities for Pinellas and St. Pete residents.
"That program is helping so many people in St. Petersburg get access to transportation, which gives them access to jobs or to go to school, or whatever," PSTA CEO Brad Miller said.
Miller said the zero-emission buses are a few of dozens more to come.
"And we have just received the first of what ultimately would be 62," Miller said. "More of these babies, 62 zero-emission buses"
For the riders, having transportation to get where they need to be is everything.
"I really don't think that I would be able to live as independently and vibrantly as I am now," Sullivan said.
To learn more about the Transportation Disadvantaged Program, click here.
Malique Rankin is a general assignment reporter with 10 Tampa Bay. You can email her story ideas at mrankin@10tampabay.com and follow her Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.