Brightline has commenced high-speed train service from Miami to Orlando using the fastest American trains outside the Northeast Corridor, becoming the first privately owned passenger operator to connect two major U.S. metropolitan areas in decades.
The debut of the 235-mile, 3.5-hour ride completes a $6 billion private investment in Florida. It promises modern amenities and faster trip times than those available through Amtrak and represents “a big day for Florida,” according to Michael Reininger, CEO of Brightline.
“It’s a moment that marks the beginning of a new industry and a blueprint for expanding rail in America,” he added.
Brightline now plans to advance a $12 billion high-speed railway project from Las Vegas to Southern California, with a goal of putting trains traveling at 186 mph on America’s tracks by 2028.