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Commuter Rail: “It’s not over ’til it’s over.”

Posted by Bob Gernert on May 1, 2008 at 12:46 pm

The Florida Senate this morning again brought to the floor transportation legislation that includes amendments relevant to Central Florida Commuter Rail. Senators discussed the merits of stripping all amendments from the legislation and sending it back to the House or hearing the full bill — amendments and all. After discussion the legislation was tabled until possibly later today.

For a perspective on the current scenerio read this Orlando Sentinel report.

Plans for developing an intermodal rail terminal in Winter Haven grew out of the negotiations to bring commuter rail to a four county Central Florida area. Long term goals of area leaders would bring the commuter service on from Poinciana through Polk and into the Tampa Bay area. Creation of the first 61-mile section of commuter rail are seen by many as key to future expansion of the service.

Those monitoring the proceedings feel the final decision will come Friday in the closing deliberations of the session.

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