CAR-FREE CONVERSATIONS: Dom & Saumitra with Nathan Bruemmer

Hosts Domenico and Saumitra sit down with Nathan Bruemmer, the City of St. Pete’s newly appointed LGBTQ+ Coordinator, for a wide-ranging conversation about inclusion, community connection, and how thoughtful city planning supports a car-free lifestyle. Nathan explains how his role bridges internal city policy and public-facing programs, helping ensure St. Pete’s 3,000+ employees and residents experience a city that’s welcoming, equitable, and accessible to all.

They talk about initiatives focused on youth and families, economic empowerment, housing affordability, healthcare access, and the year-round work behind major events like Winter Pride and St. Pete Pride—one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Southeast with a major cultural and economic impact on the city.

The episode also explores the story behind the now-viral rainbow bike racks at 25th Street & Central Avenue in the heart of the Grand Central District. Installed at no extra cost, the racks replace the former Pride mural with colorful, functional public art that celebrates LGBTQ+ history while encouraging biking and walkability. Saumitra shares his personal connection as one of the original mural artists, making the moment especially meaningful.

Throughout the conversation, the group reflects on how visibility, public space, and transportation choices all shape a sense of belonging—and how small, creative changes can make St. Pete easier to navigate without a car and more joyful for everyone.

Links & Contact
City of St. Petersburg: https://www.stpete.org
Connect Pinellas: https://www.connectpinellas.org
Nathan Bruemmer: nathan.bruemmer@stpete.org

Hashtags
#CarFreeStPete #StPetePride #BikeStPete #LGBTQCommunity