Brightline Inaugurates New Orlando-Miami Passenger Train Route
Brightline has made a significant announcement regarding the launch of its passenger rail service, connecting Orlando and Miami. This newly introduced route covers an impressive 235 miles, connecting the bustling cities of Miami and Orlando. Travel time on this route will vary between three to three and a half hours, depending on the stops made at South Florida stations.
Brightline originally commenced operations in South Florida back in 2018, linking Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. Last year, they expanded their network further with the addition of stations in Boca Raton and Aventura. The ambitious 170-mile extension project from West Palm Beach to Orlando, with an estimated cost of $6 billion, began construction in 2019. This substantial undertaking has brought about significant economic benefits in Florida, contributing to the creation of 10,000 jobs and generating approximately $6.4 billion in direct economic impact for the region.
Brightline stations and trains, designed by the Rockwell Group, are equipped with a range of passenger amenities. These include Starlink Wi-Fi, charging outlets at every seat, and a selection of food, beverages, and cocktails. Food and beverages are available for purchase for “Smart” travelers and complimentary for “Premium” travelers. Passengers can indulge in a variety of light bites, drinks, and cocktails throughout the day at Brightline’s signature in-station Mary Mary Bars. Additionally, travelers can pick up last-minute gifts, sundries, and refreshments at MRKT shopping retail locations.
The newly opened Brightline Orlando Station, in partnership with Orlando Health, is strategically situated at Orlando International Airport. This impressive 37,350-square-foot train station, located adjacent to the airport’s new Terminal C, stands out as the only intercity passenger rail station within a U.S. airport. It boasts a three-story design, including a spacious 72,000-square-foot platform area, making it the company’s largest train station. Moreover, the station offers convenient access to the airport’s Parking Garage C, providing more than 350 parking spaces designated for Brightline guests. Travelers can access airport Terminals A and B swiftly via the airport Terminal Link, an automated people mover, taking less than five minutes.
MiamiCentral, situated on an expansive 11-acre complex in downtown Miami, serves as Brightline’s southern flagship terminus. For travelers seeking connections, various options are available, including Brightline+, the Miami Metromover, and Metrorail, all seamlessly integrated with the station.
In 2022, Brightline introduced a concierge service known as Brightline+, designed to facilitate the transportation of guests to and from stations. This mobility service offers additional options within the booking platform, catering to travelers’ unique needs. Ground transportation and mobility services at the Orlando Station have been enhanced with the introduction of new Brightline+ products, including Mears shuttles, Uber rideshare, and car rental options through Avis. Upon booking a Brightline ticket, guests will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to add extras, such as parking, checked baggage, and Brightline+ mobility options closer to their travel date.
Furthermore, the company has unveiled an enhanced digital experience for guests, featuring a redesigned website and a native mobile app available for iOS and Android devices.
Notably, Brightline’s expansion into Orlando represents a significant milestone for the company, which has ambitious plans to revolutionize high-speed rail travel in the United States through Brightline West on the West Coast. This groundbreaking project will establish the nation’s first high-speed rail network with fully electric trains operating at top speeds of 200mph. Set to commence construction by the end of 2023, this line will connect millions of travelers between Los Angeles and Las Vegas annually.
Brightline’s commitment to the environment is evident in the significant benefits it offers, including reduced highway and city congestion and a reduction of approximately 72,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions each year. Studies have shown that the system will take more than three million cars off the roadways annually.
For more detailed information, please visit www.gobrightline.com.