The SunRail Commuter Rail was created by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to offer critical connections and improve mobility within Central Florida. This important project required a team with a specific combination of environmental, funding, and transit skills to create inviting, publicly supported, and financially feasible commuter rail service.
As part of the team, VHB supported the fast-track environmental clearance documentation, Federal Transit Administration (FTA) New Starts funding efforts, rail infrastructure design, evaluation of 144 grade crossings, and an assessment of the existing signal system on the 61-mile route of the CSX A Line between Deland and Kissimmee. VHB led the development of the service plans and operation and maintenance costs for the service, as well as an evaluation of capital infrastructure and equipment costs. We also performed biological surveys of the corridor/station sites; a Wetland Evaluation Report; and an Endangered Species Biological Assessment Report. VHB then led stormwater design and permitting of 10 stations, hydraulic design and permitting of three bridges, and stormwater design and permitting of approximately 17 miles of the corridor.
To assess the existing signal system, VHB conducted a field inspection using an electronic survey database to confirm the accuracy of the vital signal plans. This included photographing each location to verify and benchmark the signal equipment; noting the type, quantity, age, and condition of the signal system; reviewing test reports for SunRail and industry standards compliance; assessing the currency of plans provided by CSX Transportation; noting security of the location; and suggesting improvements or upgrades.
The result of the team’s detailed and coordinated work is a safe, reliable commuter rail system that moves an average of more than 6,000 riders daily through 17 stations in Central Florida.
