High-Speed Rail Between Orlando and West Palm Beach Slated To Open in 2022
In what is sure to be revolutionary news for Florida residents and visitors, it is full steam ahead for Virgin Railway’s plans to add high-speed rail that will connect Orlando and Miami.
According to a recent post on clickorlando.com, construction is already underway for the route that will connect Orlando and West Palm Beach. Once up and running, the trains will hit speeds of up to 125 offering speedy connections between South and Central Florida.
The project is expected to cost $2.5 billion which included a $70 million maintenance facility slated to be located just south of Orlando International Airport.
Patrick Goddard, CEO of Virgin Trains USA had this to say of the project, “With 1,000 people moving into the state daily and 126 million visitors last year, we cannot depend on the car. We need alternative mobility solutions and we think this is a phenomenal option to what’s out there.”
However, this is quite the undertaking and will consist of over 170 miles of track and 55 new bridges. The project will also require road adjustments most noticeably on State Road 528 (aka the Beachline Expressway.)
At the moment, the Orlando International Airport is the only station stop planned for Central Florida however, Virgin has already highlighted plans for expansion with stops on the Space Coast, near Walt Disney World and Orange County Convention Center.
As of going to print, the Orlando to West Palm Beach route is expected to open in 2022 and will create 10,000 construction jobs.
This is a story that we’ll be watching closely so keep following along with MickeyBlog for the latest news and updates!
Thinking about a visit to Disney? Getting started is easy! Simply fill out our form below to get your FREE, no-obligation quote from MickeyTravels!
Why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I can help you get the best discounts for your Disney World vacation package, assist with making dining and Fastpass reservations and can even help you plan an itinerary filled with extra special touches. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Contact me at 1.800.801.4025 via email at mroden@mickeytravels.com or on Facebook and let’s get planning!