Bay Runner Trolley

February 25, 2022

NBC 8 article and video:  Sarasota to launch ‘Bay Runner’ trolley next week, aims to alleviate traffic

February 27, 2022

Observer article and photos:  The Bay Runner trolley service covering downtown Sarasota and the barrier islands will be available March 2

March 2, 2022

Herald-Tribune Article:  Want to take a trolley from downtown to Lido Beach? Now you can

March 5, 2022

Email to City from Lido Key resident:

The Bay Runner Trolleys are really cute but on my first ride, I witnessed first hand a serious issue which must be addressed.

There were 5 homeless people who were riding the trolley without an intended destination. 3 of which were belligerent and harassing the other passengers. At our stop, the driver who had clearly had enough, instructed the unruly passengers to get off. They would not and we witnessed a 5 minute yelling match between these passengers and our driver. Our driver finally gave up when it was clear they were not going to comply. We were allowed to board (wish we had not) because within minutes they were loud and disruptive which we had to tolerate until we got off at our destination. This time it was only verbal but what happens when it becomes violent? 3 of this group of 5 homeless clearly have mental illness issues and/or substance abuse issues.

This is a real problem which I believe will only become worse as the Sarasota homeless population continues to grow.

Perhaps charging to ride will help. Both New Orleans and San Francisco charge riders.

Realistically, I question the benefits versus the liability. While currently cute and brand new, I believe the Trolleys will become a financial drain on our tax dollars over time. (Salaries, fuel, maintenance and liability/lawsuits)

I am requesting that you please revisit this program/initiative proactively addressing all issues providing this service may cause.

Thank you for your consideration of these concerns.

June 13, 2022

City of Sarasota Press Release:  Trolley, scooter programs recognized with international mobility award

July 18, 2022

Observer Article:  Ringling Bridge to be re-striped for a shared bus/bike shoulder lane

October 31, 2022

Observer Article:  Ringling Bridge shared bus-bike lanes activate Tuesday

October-November 2022

March 1, 2023

City of Sarasota Press Release:  Award-winning Bay Runner turns one March 2

March 6, 2023

Observer Article:  Bay Runner marks first anniversary as city looks to expand

May 25, 2023

City of Sarasota Press Release:  Bay Runner hours to change June 1 (New hours offer riders an opportunity to get to work prior to 8 a.m.)

September 26, 2023

City of Sarasota bulletin:  Bay Runner ridership tops 250,000 passengers

November 9, 2023

Observer Article:  Two stops added to Bay Runner trolley route

April 5, 2024

City email about Bay Runner trolley ridership numbers.

May 1, 2024

City email with resident complaint about homeless ridership on trolley.

May 8, 2024

City email about Bay Runner trolley ridership numbers.

June 5, 2024

City email about ridership being down due to colder weather this past winter.

August 8, 2024

City email with Bay Runner trolley ridership numbers.