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A Florida TaxWatch Economic Report
The rise of commuter rails in Florida
Passenger Trains Offer Potential Benefits and Drawbacks
There are several advantages that the commuter trains could bring to Floridians and visitors. In addition to the jobs created during rail line construction and for their operations, these new transportation systems have the potential to enhance the tourism experience for visitors, and to increase the travel opportunities of Florida residents.
However, the projects do have potential drawbacks. Many people have expressed concern about the negative impact of a new commuter rail on corridor communities. Residents are concerned about falling property values, which would reduce local government revenues and restrict economic growth during the post-Great Recession recovery period.
Additionally, the railroad tracks along the corridor bisect many cities along the eastern coast, which impacts the ability for residents to navigate through the city and causing additional traffic congestion. This could severely impact residents' access to emergency medical care, as access to hospitals can be delayed by passing trains.
Finally, though South Florida's newest rail line is privately funded, public money will still be needed for a variety of related projects, including local governments bearing the cost of rail crossing upgrades, and the current state budget includes $10 million to establish quiet zones at certain crossings. Essentially, unfunded mandates require cities and counties to pay for the upgrades needed at approximately 320 grade crossings between Miami-Dade and Brevard counties due to higher safety standards resulting from the increased rail traffic.9
Conclusion
The current commuter train projects in Florida have generated some economic activity and job growth in Central and South Florida, though major concerns exist for residents living and working near the rail lines and many taxpayers around the state. Commuter rail is one option for Florida to invest in to enhance transportation infrastructure in anticipation of the state's rapidly growing population; however, the costs should be weighed against the benefits and other options should be explored to ensure the smartest and most beneficial solution to Florida's long-term transportation needs.
9 Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. "Memorandum; Southeast Florida Passenger Rail Update." Sept. 20, 2013
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