Tampa, Fla. (WFLA) – The proposal to expand the Brightline high speed rail from Orlando to Tampa appears to have community support.
At the public meeting, Florida Development Finance Corporation heard from residents who support approving $400 million in bonds to make it happen.
The possibility of reaching Orlando from Tampa in an hour could be a reality.
In a correspondence call Thursday, many people spoke in support of the expansion, saying they were tired of being bumper-to-bumper on the road.
“I’m seeing an increase in traffic in I-4 and Florida in general. I just wanted to say I support the project in public comments. Since its founding in 2012, I’ve supported it in the past, so I’d like to ask you if the bond issue is approved.”
If Brightline gets green light, the idea is to use many I-4 corridors to expand into Tampa, offering people more transportation options.
“It’s the perfect idea. It has all the services, and it’s very practical, you know, I’m sure I’ll use it.”
For this to become a reality, Brightline still needs $400 million in bonds to fund the project. Florida Development Finance Corporation must finalize and approve the bonds for this to move forward.
There is currently ongoing research to determine where Tampa Station is, which is expected to be completed in December.
