– Wes Edens, Brightline’s co-founder: “This moment also marks the beginning of a new industry and outlines a blueprint for expanding high-speed rail in America.”
In a grand celebration today, Brightline officially launched its passenger rail service between Orlando and Miami. The first train, named Bright Pink, arrived in Orlando to a warm welcome from over 500 elected officials, business leaders, community partners, and company leaders from across the state. This marks the culmination of a decade-long effort and promises to reinvent train travel in America.
The ambitious $6 billion project, considered the boldest private infrastructure endeavor in the nation, aims to connect city pairs that are too short to fly but too far to drive. With stations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Aventura already in operation, the addition of the Orlando route completes the 235-mile journey. Depending on South Florida station stops, the travel time between Miami and Orlando will range from 3 to 3.5 hours.
The start of service was celebrated at the Brightline Orlando Station, where the Founder of Brightline, Wes Edens, along with CEO Mike Reininger and President Patrick Goddard, were joined by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. Mayor Dyer presented the Key to the City to Edens and other Brightline representatives, marking the significance of this milestone.
One notable aspect of Brightline’s success is its commitment to providing a top-notch guest experience. The stations, designed by The Rockwell Group and adorned in Brightline’s signature yellow, offer spacious lounges, charging outlets at every seat, and amenities such as Starlink Wifi. Travelers can indulge in food, beverages, and cocktails available for purchase, with light bites and drinks offered complimentary for premium passengers. The stations also feature in-station bars and MRKT shopping locations.
The new Brightline Orlando Station, located at MCO’s state-of-the-art Train Station adjacent to Terminal C, stands tall at three stories and is the only intercity passenger rail station of its kind situated within a U.S. airport. Its connection to the airport’s other terminals via the Terminal Link automated people mover ensures seamless intermodal travel for passengers.
Brightline trainsets, manufactured in partnership with Siemens Mobility, offer luxurious and comfortable travel. They feature special ergonomic seating, enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, wide aisles, wheelchair storage, and fully accessible restrooms, surpassing ADA requirements.
The economic and environmental impact of Brightline’s expansion is noteworthy. The project has generated over 10,000 jobs during its construction phase and is projected to create around 2,000 permanent jobs. Independent studies suggest that the system will bring over $6.4 billion in direct economic impact to the region. Furthermore, by reducing highway and city congestion, as well as CO2 emissions by an estimated 72,000 metric tons yearly, Brightline’s service will have a positive environmental effect.
To enhance its passengers’ experience, Brightline has introduced innovative technology and mobility options. Brightline+ concierge service, conveniently powered by the Brightline app, facilitates seamless connections to and from stations. The Orlando Station now offers additional Brightline+ products such as MEARS shuttles, Uber rideshare, and car rental options through Avis.
As part of their commitment to delivering a cutting-edge digital journey, Brightline recently unveiled a redesigned website and native mobile app for iOS and Android devices. The revamped platform simplifies the booking process, making it fast, dependable, and frictionless for passengers.
With today’s launch, Brightline has not only fulfilled Henry Flagler’s original vision for the Florida East Coast Railway but has also set a new standard for high-speed rail in America. The success of this project serves as a blueprint for future private infrastructure initiatives and highlights the potential for innovation and transportation in the United States.