Transportation in South Florida may be about to get much easier. The All Aboard Florida passenger project is a proposed high-speed rail service that would connect Miami to Orlando. With so much travel done between the two locales, the project makes a lot of sense to the average South Floridian. However, there has been a certain level of opposition facing the new transportation line. In an era where being environmentally friendly is almost as important as being cost friendly, there has been much speculation regarding the potential impact on the environment.
Well, the project recently received good news. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) released an Environmental Impact Statement claiming that the proposed rail line would have very little impact on the air quality, water resources, wetlands and protected species of the area. The report states that the line could even have a positive impact on the environment by reducing highway traffic between Miami and Orlando.
This approval serves as more than just a step in the right direction for the project. This ok from the FRA is a needed document in securing the $1.6 billion of funding the project requires from the federal government. Conservative estimates show annual ridership at 3.5 million by 2019, with the number climbing over 4 million by 2030. This future easy of travel between two major business hubs could be beneficial for the Miami real estate market, particularly properties suited for businessmen who may spend multiple days a week in Miami on business. The potential high-speed line could help spur demand for Miami condominiums or townhomes. If you have any questions about popular locations, or Miami real estate in general, feel free to contact a RE/MAX agent today!