Press Releases
Statement by Sens. Constantine and Gardiner
Legislation to Create Jobs and Encourage Economic Development Passes Out of Key Senate Committee
Tallahassee, Fla. – Legislation was today presented in the Senate Transportation and Economic Development Committee that moves the Central Florida SunRail project one step closer to being heard on the Senate floor. Senate Bill 1212, a vital component of the SunRail project, was presented by Senator Lee Constantine (R-Altamonte Springs) and establishes the overall framework for future development of commuter rail in Florida.
“Florida is in critical need of alternative forms of transportation in our state,” said Senator Constantine. “The SunRail project is the product of many years of hard work and local support from many diverse groups. The I-4 corridor is home to flagship universities, bio-tech institutions and world-renown tourism attractions. It is vital that we move forward with SunRail in order to continue growing Florida’s economic center.”
The Federal Transit Administration will pay 50 percent of the project’s cost, equaling $308 million, while local governments and the state will split the remaining difference. Florida’s funding is through transportation dollars allocated for infrastructure projects. The goal of SunRail is to provide mobility options to commuters, seniors, disabled citizens, students and visitors.
“The key to Florida’s economy is moving people and moving goods efficiently throughout our state,” said Senator Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando), a co-sponsor of the legislation and a member of the Committee on Transportation and Economic Development. “The long-term benefit of SunRail will ultimately lead to rapid job growth and economic development in Central Florida, which will positively impact the rest of the state. Additionally, SunRail lays the groundwork for commuter rail lines in other critical areas throughout Florida.”
Experts believe SunRail will create an estimated $8.5 billion in long-term stimulus and will increase local property values by over $150 million. From development related to construction at transit centers, 113,000 job are expected to be created and close to 140,000 permanent jobs will be created to support new commercial centers and for the operation and maintenance of the rail system.
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