The state of Florida is expected to receive federal funding for a high-speed commuter train that is planned to run between Orlando,Orange County and Tampa, Hillsborough County. The commuter train will enable residents’ quick and affordable transportation from Tampa to Orlando and vice-versa for work opportunities or a day at one of the many theme parks in both areas.
State lawmakers have tried to secure $2.5 billion in federal stimulus funds for the high speed corridor, which is expected to be only the first stage of the Tampa-Orlando-Miami train route. According to US Senator George LeMieux, “This will be a transformative project for Florida,” LeMieux followed in a statement of his own. “It will connect Tampa and Orlando making it a mega region, making travel between the two cities much easier. I’ve got my fingers crossed that the President’s going to award Florida the full $2.5 billion."
If all goes well, construction on the new high-speed railroad will commence late in 2014, with the next segment scheduled to start late in 2017!
