News Release: Peninsula Transit Pilot Program Expands Access Between Key Peninsula and Gig Harbor

 

Running Monday through Saturday from December 2025 through August 2026, the 8- month pilot is a collaboration between Pierce County, Around the Sound Transportation, and the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce. To kick off the program, Peninsula Transit will partner with the Key Peninsula / Gig Harbor Holiday Shuttle to offer seven-day-a-week service from Black Friday, November 28th through December 26, 2025, giving residents expanded access during the busiest shopping and event season of the year.

 

 “For many Key Peninsula residents, this means more than just a ride. It’s access to opportunity, connection, and community,” said Rosalyn Rochac-Finnegan, Tourism Director for Visit Gig Harbor and supporter of the program. “This service helps families, students, seniors, and workers travel safely to jobs, healthcare, shopping and local events while also strengthening ties between the Key Peninsula and Gig Harbor.”

 

 Local businesses are also welcoming the boost. “The addition of the shuttle will benefit all businesses by making it easier for residents and visitors to reach local shops and restaurants, increasing foot traffic and exposure. We’re pleased to have the Uptown Shopping Center as one of the stops,” said Paula Zenobio , Tenant Coordinator of Uptown Gig Harbor.

 

 “Transportation is a huge need on the Key Peninsula,” said Robyn Denson, Pierce County Councilmember (District 7). “Throughout my time serving the community, I’ve heard people from all walks of life, all ages and all income-levels, express a need for transportation. I’m thrilled that we are able to provide this extended pilot program to show   the region that Key Peninsula people are ready to ride! The new Peninsula Transit service will connect the Key Peninsula with Gig Harbor and with the larger transportation systems of Pierce Transit and Sound Transit. By providing this connection, our residents can better access jobs, health care, after-school activities, shopping, recreation, community events and can better connect with friends and family. Peninsula Transit is about making sure everyone can share in the opportunities and experiences that make this region so special.”

 

Peninsula Transit — Pilot Program Snapshot

Service Dates: December 2025 –August 2026
Special Holiday Service: Black Friday November 28th – December 26, 2025 (7 days a week in partnership with the Holiday Shuttle)
Operating Days after Dec 26: Monday – Saturday
Cost: Free

Stops Include:
– Longbranch Improvement Club (start point)
– Red Barn (optional mid-stop)
– Purdy/Park and Ride (mid-stop)
– St. Anthony Hospital (optional mid-stop)
– Downtown Gig Harbor/ Skansie Brothers Park (Harborview & Rosedale)
– Uptown Gig Harbor shopping district

Partners: Pierce County • Around the Sound Transportation • Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce  

Program Goals:
– Expand access for families, seniors, and workers
– Reduce transportation barriers between Key Peninsula & Gig Harbor
– Support local business and tourism growth
– Evaluate long-term community transit options

View Maps and Full Schedule

Media Interviews Available:
Paula Zenobio -Tenant Coordinator Uptown Gig Harbor
Miriam Battson – CEO & President, Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Gig Harbor
Robyn Denson - Council Member- Pierce County, District 7