Brightline receives key approval for Tampa-to-Orlando high-speed service

1, 2, 3, green light! Brightline is one step closer to connecting Tampa and Orlando. The state gave the light rail operator approval to negotiate for land to begin its anticipated Tampa-to-Orlando service, according to a report by the Miami Herald.

Brightline now has 3 months to work out an agreement with the Central Florida Expressway to build the track along I-4. An official station location in Tampa has yet to be determined.

Game changing transportation gets the green light

The high-spreed train service could prove a game changer for Tampa residents. For one, it would make it far easier, and potentially safer, to experience all that’s going on in Orlando. Have you ever made the trek from Tampa to Orlando at rush hour? Not for us.

This includes indulging in the major tourist attractions like Disney World and Universal, as well as visiting cultural hubs like the Milk District.

It works both ways. We’re sure Orlando residents would love to come down and experience Sparkman Wharf, a massive outdoor food and beer garden, or the praised Florida Aquarium and the Tampa Museum of Art.

Brightline could be a major revenue generator for Tampa Bay

The service could serve to help expand tourism, as well. Now, visitors to the Sunshine State can dip their toes in the Disney pool, and then take a train ride to Tampa for food, kayaking, concerts and journeying along the Tampa Bay beer trail.

But we digress. The Brightline is a big deal — and a project we’re eager to see come to fruition.

The Miami Herald reports that the 88-mile route, with potential stops in Lakeland and Polk before hitting Celebration and downtown Orlando, could add 1,600 permanent jobs, and 16,500 temporary jobs during its construction.

Virgin Group invests in service 

Of course, once it’s live it won’t be known as Brightline. An agreement with Virgin Group would see the train rebranded as Virgin Trains USA.

Are you excited for train service between Tampa and Orlando? Let us know in the comments!

You can learn more about the service by visiting its website.