ORLANDO, Fla. – The city of Orlando is casting a crucial vote Monday to help fund a $6 million study for the expansion of SunRail.
The Sunshine Corridor is a project that aims to connect SunRail to the Orlando International Airport, International Drive and Disney Springs.
The project is seen as a potential game-changer for Central Florida transportation but requires financial backing to move forward.
A project development and environmental study is needed before the federal government and state of Florida can provide any funding.
Last year, the Florida Department of Transportation pledged $2 million toward the study, as long as local governments and other entities covered the remaining $4 million.
In January, Seminole County committed $500,000 and Orlando is expected to match the contribution.
Michelle Morisson, a regular SunRail rider, expressed her support for the plan.
“I already use it to commute to work. It’s a commuter train, but it would allow us to do more than just commute to work,” she said.
Transportation officials believe the Sunshine Corridor could significantly boost ridership.
“A lot of tourists come in and maybe they wouldn’t rent a car. Maybe they’d take transit somewhere,” Morisson added.
While Orange County has shown support for the feasibility study, Osceola County leaders have been hesitant to contribute financially. However, many riders hope more stakeholders will back the plan, recognizing its potential benefits for the community.
“I think that’s literally how you improve it. Just create more stops so people can actually stop and go where they want to go,” Jonathan Zervos said. “I feel like down here we’re expanding. That’s actually a really good idea.”
The vote for funding is during the Orlando City Council’s meeting on Monday at 2 p.m.
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