Veterans Ride PSTA Free Nov. 11

ST. PETERSBURG – The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will once again offer free bus rides to active military and veterans in recognition of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Riders are asked to show active or retired military identification when boarding any PSTA bus or trolley to qualify for a free ride. Acceptable forms of identification include a military ID card, Veterans Affairs medical card, veteran’s designation on a driver’s license, certificate of release, or a certificate of discharge from active duty.

“We want our veterans to know that we appreciate their service and sacrifice,” said PSTA Chief Executive Officer Brad Miller. “We also want to salute the many veterans who are employed here at PSTA.”

According to a projection made by the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics, the Tampa Bay area has the largest veteran population in the state.

Pinellas and Hillsborough counties are home to a combined 179,899 veterans as of September 2015, according to the report.

PSTA proudly offers bus service to all three of the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System facilities that operate in Pinellas County.  These facilities include the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center in Bay Pines and VA outpatient clinics located in St. Petersburg and Palm Harbor.

“Transportation is extremely important to healthcare access,” said Jason Dangel, Public Affairs Officer for Bay Pines VA Healthcare System. “So we are very grateful for the role that PSTA plays.”

 The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System sees around 4,000 appointments a day— a feat Dangel says may not have been possible without PSTA.

 “We are kind of blessed here in Pinellas County because we do have great public transportation options,” said Dangel.

For information on trip planning and individual routes please visit www.PSTA.net or call the InfoLine at (727) 540-1900.

Includes any PSTA bus or trolley with proper identification.