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Rail System Plan Development - 2009
BACKGROUND
The Florida Rail System Plan looks at both passenger and freight rail issues. It is updated every two years as required by 341.302(3) Florida Statutes.
The Plan must be developed based on statewide needs and consistent with the Florida Transportation Plan. It must include an identification of priorities, programs and funding levels needed to meet statewide needs. It must also work to assure the maximum use of existing facilities and integration/coordination with other modes of transportation.
Historic plans focused on describing the rail system and identifying rehabilitation needs. However, with the advent of the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) and the additional funding provided by 2005 Growth Management legislation, the rail plan became a tool to identify the capital improvements and priorities for funding needed to ensure the efficient movement of people and goods by rail.
As automobile and truck fuel prices have increased, so has public interest in opportunities for expansion of passenger and freight services by rail.
Consequently, the Rail System Plan development in 2008-9 has expanded its focus to look at how the rail system can balance passenger and freight issues and identify how rail can best interact with other modes and local transportation systems.
This expanded focus includes an expanded stakeholder involvement process led by a Rail Stakeholder Advisory Committee made up of representatives from various groups who have an interest in making sure the rail system works best for Florida's citizens.
We encourage anyone with an interest in the future of rail in Florida to participate by attending meetings and/or providing written comments. Together we can make rail work for all of us.
