New Florida Brightline train launches first phase in 2018

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Gaby Chacon

Brightline train pulls into the Ft. Lauderdale station

Brightline’s express train will have stations connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. It began test riding with passengers on Jan. 8. The Miami station will open later this year, and Orlando’s is estimated to open by 2019.

Onboard, Brightline trains offer free WiFi, food and drink, spacious seating and sizable bathrooms. The stations include food kiosks and souvenir stands as well as self-served coffee that you will be able to pay for through the mobile Brightline application. Booking rides and viewing the schedule will also be available on the app. Beautifully painted maps of South Florida’s attractions in each city are on the station walls.

“We believe the comfort and convenience of our travel experience paired with premium hospitality will set a new standard for passenger rail service,” Patrick Goddard, Brightline’s president and chief operating officer said.

This smart alternative transportation will cut the stress of traffic, gas money and parking. The trains are also a pet-friendly service. Ticket prices have recently been announced as $10 for a one-way ride under the Brightline Smart Coach package and $15 for the more luxurious Select Coach package, according to the Miami Herald. A 10 percent discount is offered to seniors, active military and veterans; children 12 and under will receive a 50 percent discount.

Train service will be running from as early as 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. with 10 daily roundtrips during weekdays and nine on weekends. Travel time will be 35 mins. from West Palm Beach to Ft. Lauderdale and 60 mins. to Miami.

This all-American built train partnered with Florida Power Light to run on clean, diesel-electric engines to reduce emissions. Each train set is made up of four cars and will hold 240 people. The anticipation for the official opening of the train service is high and the company has received positive feedback based on the trial runs.

Due to recent accidental deaths caused by pedestrians being hit by the train, safety precautions have been enforced. Electronic signs have been placed at multiple crossings between the West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale stations. Safety features will continue to be added to ensure the well-being and security of the public.