FDOT press release

TALLAHASSEE – Today the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) completed the purchase of the 61-mile SunRail commuter rail corridor owned by CSX. The purchase means work will soon start on the construction of the first phase of the commuter rail system.

Secretary Prasad said:

"Today's purchase is another important step in the process to bring SunRail commuter rail to Central Florida. All along the way, the Department has worked closely with federal, state, local and private partners to help achieve the vision to deliver the most effective and efficient commuter rail system in the country.

Our partnership with CSX, and today’s announcement of their increased infrastructure investment in Florida to $500 million over the next 8 years, will improve the movement of freight and commuters throughout the state, will increase the capacity and efficiency of Florida’s ports, and will make Florida the best place to live, work, and visit.”

With the purchase of the corridor, the State’s contractors will begin to manage and maintain the 61-mile corridor including signal and track maintenance. Today’s closing will also enable contractors to begin construction on Phase I of SunRail which will include the double-tracking, signal improvements, stations and operations control center. Construction will start this year.

The 31-mile first phase of SunRail will serve 12 stations, linking DeBary to Orlando. Phase II will serve 5 additional stations, north to DeLand and south to Poinciana. Service for Phase I is expected to begin in early 2014.