What is the purpose of the program?

The Legislature created the Florida Rail Enterprise within the Department of Transportation to oversee all state-owned passenger rail systems. The law that created the enterprise addresses liability risks associated with state-owned passenger rail corridors and requires the department to work with communities affected by increased freight rail traffic resulting from routing modifications.

What does the program do?

The Florida Rail Enterprise has the authority to plan, construct, maintain, repair, and operate a high-speed rail system, to acquire rail corridors, and to coordinate development and operation of publicly funded passenger rail systems in the state.

Is there dedicated funding or spending restrictions?

By law, the Florida Rail Enterprise is to receive $60 million annually from the state's excise tax on documents. These funds can be spent on

• up to 50% of the nonfederal share of the costs from eligible passenger rail capital improvements;
• up to 100% of the planning and development costs related to the creation of a passenger rail system;
• the high-speed rail system; and
• projects necessary to identify or address anticipated impacts of increased freight rail traffic resulting from the implementation of passenger rail systems.

How is the program funded?

Where can I get more information?

Other Reports
The Department of Transportation's Office of the Inspector General reports are available on its website.
Websites of Interest
Florida Transportation Commission
U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration
Performance
Performance measures and standards for the department may be found in its Long Range Program Plan.

What are the applicable statutes?

Chapters 311, 320, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 341, 343, 351, and 427, Florida Statutes.

Whom do I contact for help?

Freight Logistics and Passenger Operations Office, 850-414-4500

Website