NewsWUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)August 20, 2026Hillsborough
Pinellas transit officials warn Amendment 3 could eliminate 25 bus routes and 120 jobs
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) officials report that if voters approve Amendment 3 this November, the agency faces a potential $34 million budget shortfall that could force the elimination of 25 bus routes and 120 staff positions. The proposed constitutional amendment would increase homestead property tax exemptions, significantly reducing the tax revenue that funds local transit services.
Read the full story at WUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)Why It Matters
If passed, the amendment could lead to the cancellation of the new 727 Airport Express, the end of the Jolly Trolley, and the loss of transit access for residents in cities like Safety Harbor, Treasure Island, and Gulfport.
Key Facts
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Who's Mentioned
personMike Twitty“Provided the revenue loss estimates used by PSTA.”locationClearwater“City funding ferry and Jolly Trolley services.”organizationPinellas Suncoast Transit Authority“The transit agency facing potential service cuts.”personDebbie Leous“Presented the $34 million budget shortfall projection.”personDarden Rice“Warned of the potential for 'dramatically insufficient' transit service.”locationTampa International Airport“Destination for the proposed 727 Airport Express bus route.”locationSt. Petersburg“City funding the ferry and bus services.”