Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials are evaluating the expansion of Sunrail to key destinations in Central Florida, including Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Convention Center/International Drive, and Disney Springs. This expansion, known as the "Sunshine Corridor," would involve new commuter lines and more frequent services.
In a recent presentation, FDOT’s regional secretary, John Tyler, discussed the early stages of planning, focusing on potential ridership and cost implications. Tyler indicated strong ridership to the airport and International Drive, with varying projections based on train frequency and other factors. Current plans suggest 15-minute intervals for trains to the airport from Disney, and 15 to 30 minutes from other cities depending on the time.
Travel time estimates include 21 minutes from Kissimmee to the airport, 25 minutes from Disney Springs, and 28 minutes from Lynx Central Station. However, the project's cost, estimated at over $2 billion, raises concerns. This cost encompasses track laying, modifying the airport’s train station, building elevated lines, signaling work, and buying trains.
A significant cost variable is whether to build a new station for line transfers or use existing ones at Lynx Central, Kissimmee, or the airport. The involvement of private investment is another consideration. Universal has proposed donating land for the I-Drive station, and Brightline might share some costs, although negotiations are ongoing.
State lawmakers are also considering using Tourism Development Tax revenue to fund the Sunshine Corridor, potentially reducing the financial burden on local taxpayers. Tyler expressed optimism about the project but acknowledged the lengthy process ahead.
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