(The following editorial appeared on the Orlando Sentinel website on May 6, 2011.)
ORLANDO, Fla. — With Gov. Rick Scott now less than two months from making his decision on SunRail, those looking to influence him on the commuter train for Central Florida have adopted two distinct styles.
The pro-SunRail side: Determined. Confident.
The anti-SunRail force: Complaining. Desperate.
That should tell you, at least at this early-May checkpoint, how the project’s faring.
Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer have spoken with Scott to address the governor’s concerns about the transit system’s return on investment. About ridership. And about local support for the 61-mile line and its 17 stations.
They and leaders of several of the major regional businesses supporting SunRail, including Disney, Orlando Health, Florida Hospital, the Orlando Magic and Tupperware, have made certain the governor’s aware of detailed studies produced by experts, who note how commuter systems spawn development.
The governor’s listening, asking pointed questions, and very engaged, say many who’ve met with him.
The business backers are carefully compiling surveys on ridership and amassing strategies on how best to promote SunRail.
Full story: Orlando Sentinel