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Orlando seeking federal funding to link SunRail commuter train to Brightline

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Updated  April 21, 2023 7:14pm EDT
Orange County
FOX 35 Orlando

Orlando seeks SunRail link to Brightline

Florida's higher-speed rail service, Brightline, officially unveiled its new Orlando Station on Thursday. Orlando Mayor Dyer said he wants to see Brightline's station at the Orlando International Airport connect with the SunRail commuter line.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Florida's higher-speed rail service, Brightline, officially unveiled its new Orlando Station on Thursday.

Earlier this year, Brightline made history as having the fastest train in the Southeast, reaching speeds of 130 mph.  Brightline currently serves Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach. Brightline hopes to open the Orlando station before July of this year.  

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer attended the unveiling and said he wants to see Brightline's station at the Orlando International Airport connect with the SunRail commuter line, so residents have a direct way to travel.

"Imagine that," he said, "being able to get on anywhere in the 61 miles and travel to the airport and then connect to Brightline and go to West Palm or Fort Lauderdale. That’s going to be great for any travel."

RELATED: What to know about Brightline's service from Orlando to South Florida

SunRail will eventually operate a commuter rail line from DeLand, in Volusia County, to Poinciana, in Osceola County. Mayor Dyer said the city is in the process of applying for federal funding for the Brightline connection. 

Brightline Orlando Station unveiling

The construction of Brightline's train station in Orlando is finally complete. Brightline officials unveiled the new station, which is located at the Orlando International Airport (MCO), on Thursday morning, giving future travelers a first look inside.

Mayor Dyer hopes to see it happen in the next couple of years, once funding is approved. 

As we wait for an exact launch date sometime later this year, Brightline said tickets for trips on the extended line will go on sale beginning in May. Family rates will also be available.