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The Central Florida commuter rail project known as SunRail will generate countless benefits for the Orlando region. Governor Scott put the project on hold pending review shortly after entering office. He is expected to make a decision soon, and unless we vocalize our support, many fear the project may go the way of high speed rail.
As a transit advocate in Tampa Bay, you may be rooting for SunRail, but without the kind of enthusiasm you might put behind a project in our region. What you may not realize is that the fate of SunRail will have significant direct and indirect effects on Tampa Bay.
Losing SunRail may mean no new rail projects in Florida for a decade or more. Under the current system, passenger rail projects require significant federal investment. Florida has already reneged on a deal with the feds once. Quickly following that high-profile decision with another will impair our ability to compete with other states and regions for these limited dollars. When Tampa Bay asks for federal funding for roads or rails, we will be at a disadvantage relative to other states who have demonstrated a desire to work with federal officials… and don't change their minds after agreeing to. This will prohibit any local projects from moving forward for at least the next three years, and waiting that long to initiate another project will mean ten or more years before even a starter line can begin operation.
If SunRail is approved, the benefits flow far beyond Central Florida. The jobs created and economic impact will cross the entire Super Region. The re-investment of $432 million by CSX into Florida's freight infrastructure will benefit our entire economy, our ports, and make the state more nationally and globally competitive.
Show Governor Scott that Tampa Bay Supports SunRail!
Connect with SaveSunRail on Facebook and Twitter
Email the Governor here or at rick.scott@eog.myflorida.com
Send a formal letter to The Honorable Rick Scott, Governor of Florida, The Capitol, 400 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001
Call the Governor's office at 850-488-7146
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