Gov. Charlie Crist sent U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood a letter formally requesting federal stimulus bucks for a bullet train from Orlando to Tampa.
In the letter, Crist touts the overwhelming passage of the SunRail/TriRail/High speed rail bill on Tuesday.
"The transportation bill passed this week resoundingly demonstrates Florida’s support for passenger rail transportation," Crist writes. "As a result, the Sunshine State will reduce congestion on our roadways and create more efficient travel options for our residents and visitors."
Read the full letter below
Secretary Ray LaHood
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, D.C. 20590
Dear Secretary LaHood:
I am pleased to inform you that the Florida Legislature, with the
support of 111 state legislators, passed House Bill 1B on Tuesday,
securing Florida’s transportation future. This legislation will
modernize the state’s transportation system. I look forward to signing
this legislation into law before December 24, 2009.
The transportation bill passed this week resoundingly demonstrates
Florida’s support for passenger rail transportation. As a result, the
Sunshine State will reduce congestion on our roadways and create more
efficient travel options for our residents and visitors. In addition,
we look forward to the increased economic opportunities for local
businesses and the subsequent job creation.
I am tremendously proud of the Florida Legislature for recognizing the
importance of transit rail. It will not only modernize transportation
in our most highly populated areas, but will also create jobs at a time
when our state’s unemployment rate tops 11 percent.
Florida has shown continued commitment to expanding rail service
throughout our state, including developing high speed rail. Florida’s
Track 2 Application for the Tampa-Orlando-Miami High Speed Rail Program
offers the best opportunity to deliver results as quickly as possible.
Following Florida’s pledge to further diversify our transportation
system, I believe that high speed rail will be a critical component to
strengthening our portfolio of alternative transportation. As you know,
acceptance of Florida’s Track 2 Application this year will ensure that
implementation of the Tampa-Orlando segment can begin in 2010.
Therefore, I formally request your approval of Florida’s application to
develop high speed rail.
Thank you for your careful and prompt consideration.
Sincerely,
Charlie Crist
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