After many years, I am pleased that through substantial work and a cooperative effort, Commuter Rail will become a reality in Central Florida.  Successful negotiations have resulted in an historic agreement with CSX for the State to purchase the right of way and relocate freight rail from the congested I-4 corridor.  This is a new era in transportation not only for Central Florida but for our entire state.  Commuter rail will be the most significant transportation initiative since it was decided to run the Interstate through Central Florida.

        Volusia, Orange, Seminole and Osceola Counties have each committed support to this much needed alternative to commuter traffic congestion on I-4.  Under the management of the Florida Department of Transportation, preliminary engineering will soon proceed and will finalize plans and costs.  While it may be several years before commuter rail service begins, it will eventually run 61 miles from DeLand to Poinciana.  I am committed to working with both the State of Florida and the Federal Transit Administration to secure final approvals and funding for the commuter rail project.