Counties Along All-Aboard Route Want More Information About Train
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
By: Ernest Duffoo

July 8, 2014 | WMFE, Orlando - Counties along the route of an Orlando to Miami passenger rail service say they want more information about the how the train will impact their communities.

[Map of the private passenger train's railroad lines courtesy of All-Aboard Florida.]

All-Aboard Florida unveiled plans for its $30 million Fort Lauderdale station Tuesday.

The company aims to begin the rail service in 2016.

Some residents along the proposed route have expressed concern about the effect of the rail service- with 16 round trips scheduled per day

Chris Mora, the public works director for Indian River County, says he wants to ensure a minimal negative impact to his community.

 “What they’re trying to do though is give the communities a chance to chime in and speak up about these changes and see what actions may need to be done to ensure that the crossings remain safe and that they don’t negatively impact the public,” Mora said.

Plans call for the private passenger train to connect with Orlando International Airport, and FDOT is setting aside funding for a new multi-modal terminal at the airport.

All Aboard Florida says it will start building the Southern phase of the line this summer.

The commuter train has stirred up some controversy.

Brevard County resident Martin Adams says even though the train is privately funded, he’s worried about the cost.

"The topic is controversial in Brevard County. And part of the argument from those who are opposed is that there is no benefit to the county, at least no perceived benefit, and there is a fear of cost to taxpayers,” Adams said.

The Florida Department of Transportation says while it is funding Orlando International Airport's multi modal terminal, it would be doing that regardless of whether All Aboard Florida goes ahead, and there are no state subsidies for the rail-line itself.

Work on the section from West Palm Beach to Orlando is set to begin after an Environmental Impact Survey which is being carried out by The Federal Railroad Administration.