ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – St. Augustine’s new Star Circulator bus service drew more than 16,000 riders during this year’s Nights of Lights festival, prompting city officials to consider expanding the free transit program beyond the popular holiday event.
Reuben Franklin, assistant city manager of St. Augustine, presented results from the Star Circulator bus program to the St. Augustine Beach City Commission on Monday, highlighting strong ridership numbers from the city’s annual Nights of Lights event that brings tens of thousands to the area.
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This past year marked the first time the Star Circulator operated during the event. Two buses ran daily from 5 p.m. to midnight, providing free rides to the public at a cost of $40,000, funded through state grants.
Ridership also exceeded expectations. In downtown St. Augustine alone, 6,841 people boarded the Star Circulator, according to Franklin. Combined with St. Augustine Beach, the buses transported more than 16,000 riders throughout the event.
Franklin said there was high demand for the service, noting that officials hoped to expand the routes year-round — starting with weekends and potentially growing into full weekly service. He added the expanded service could benefit residents, workers and college students.
Mayor Beth Sweeney said she received positive feedback about the program. Commissioner Undine George said the ride was smooth and easy.
Commissioner Donald Samora said the buses helped keep cars off the road during the event.
Franklin said the city is looking forward to bringing the Star Circulator back for the upcoming Nights of Lights season.