Congresswoman Brown Announces Proposal for SunRail Connector to Orlando International Airport

Congresswoman Corrine Brown is pleased to announce a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) proposal to construct a 5.5-mile east-west commuter rail project, which would connect the north-south running SunRail system with the Orlando International Airport (OIA). The project's estimated capital cost is $175 - $225 million, and FDOT is considering applying for up to $74.99 million from the Federal Transit Administration's Small Starts program. If funding is obtained, the project would provide direct commuter rail service between OIA, downtown Orlando, and points to the north and south of Orlando for the 20,000 employees who work at OIA and adjacent properties and the 100,000 air passengers who board daily at OIA.

"This is great news for SunRail, Orlando's International Airport, and the entire Central Florida area" exclaimed Congresswoman Brown. "Indeed, this project, once completed, will serve as another critical piece in the creation of a multi modal transportation system for Central Florida that will benefit the entire state," she continued.

"SunRail is a perfect example of a project that has materialized because of the tremendous local support and cooperation from all of the stakeholders involved -- local, state, and federal. It has been great to see the Florida state government working in partnership with the local and federal government to improve our state's transportation system. Beyond a doubt, Sun Rail is a crucial component in providing well-paying jobs to the hard working people of Florida. And as it continues to expand, it will also go a long way towards decreasing the terrible congestion that afflicts the entire Central Florida region. Moreover, SunRail will serve as a critical hub for the state of Florida's future High Speed Rail system, which I am certain, will come to fruition in the very near future.

Not since the construction of I-4 has there been a transportation project of this magnitude in Central Florida. And as more people and cars crowd our quickly growing region, commuter rail will provide area commuters with a cost-effective mass transit alternative to high gas prices and a congested and gridlocked I-4. In addition, economic development around the rail lines is poised to help many of the surrounding communities flourish, creating numerous ancillary jobs.

I have worked with all of the stakeholders in Central Florida, as well as the state and federal government for many years to provide financial and logistical support for commuter rail. Already, Sun Rail is allowing Florida residents to enjoy the benefits of reduced highway congestion, improved air quality, and an alternative way to travel."

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