The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will launch a $1.7 million study in December assessing viable transit options to expand the reach of the new SunRail commuter rail system set to debut in 2014 in Orlando. FDOT expects the study to be completed in April 2014.
Officials are especially concerned about connecting SunRail to Orlando International Airport, Lake Nona, International Drive and northern Osceola County. Any new transit system would also have to connect with the existing Lynx bus service and I-Ride trolley system on International Drive.
A similar study was conducted in 2005, recommending a 14-mile OIA Connector Light Rail Transit system, with a projected cost of $617 million. FDOT officials believe those recommendations are no longer viable due to the influx of programs like SunRail and other transportation prjoects.
The study will not cover roadway improvements but may broach the subject of dedicated bus lanes.
