In a recent development poised to facilitate transit for St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport patrons, a proposal emerged during a Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority board meeting signaling plans to potentially connect travelers straight to Clearwater Beach's sandy shores by bus. According to a FOX 13 News report, Darden Rice, PSTA's chief planning officer, underlined the strong public demand for new direct service, stating, "We have heard loud and clear from many people - the desire for us to look into providing new service between Clearwater Beach and [the] airport."

As budgets for 2025 take shape, PSTA has decided not to cut transit services, unlike last year's measures, opting rather to expand them. Explained by the Tampa Bay Times, the fare structure remains unchanged, maintaining the base rate of $2.25 per ride alongside a $5 daily fare cap. In a bid to tap previously unclaimed state money, the mobility budget expects an increment in the monthly fare cap, rising from $70 to $85. Targeted at aiding the agency’s Transportation Disadvantaged program, the move directly benefits those low-income individuals who depend on its $11 monthly rides.

Furthermore, PSTA has drafted a budget that would bolster its treasury with an estimated additional $1 million in revenue. With an eye on these funds, they are contemplating the engagement of a third-party operator to steward the proposed new beach transit service. This prospective transportation avenue was detailed in a third article found on WFLA News, which noted that the provision of better airport-to-beach connectivity is set to become a concrete plan after further deliberations by the county next month.