Cocoa’s request for a $47.46M grant to build a Brightline rail station was denied, prompting city officials to explore new funding options. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Brightline rail station
Photo, source: www.floridatoday.com

Cocoa’s Vision for a Brightline Rail Station Faces Funding Challenges

Cocoa’s $47.46M federal grant application for a Brightline rail station was denied. This funding would have supported four miles of double-tracking and station construction, making it a crucial component of the $83.21M project.

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The proposed Brightline rail station, planned for an undeveloped site near Clearlake Road and State Roads 524 and 528, would serve the Orlando-to-Miami route. Cocoa City Manager Stockton Whitten expressed determination to reapply for the grant in December, remaining optimistic about the project’s prospects.

Next Steps After Federal Grant Denial for Cocoa’s Brightline Rail Station

Despite the Federal Railroad Administration’s rejection, Cocoa intends to rework its proposal to improve its chances for funding in the next grant cycle. Whitten noted that Brightline remains committed to the station, bolstering the city’s confidence.

Federal grants for intercity rail projects are allocated annually to improve U.S. metro connectivity. This year, $2.4B in grants was awarded, with projects in 41 states and Washington, D.C., focusing on safety, resilience, and efficiency in transportation infrastructure.

However, Cocoa’s project was excluded from these grants, sparking disappointment among local officials. Brevard County Commission Chair Jason Steele, part of the delegation that advocated for the grant, expressed hope for future funding. Steele sees the Brightline rail station as a critical tourism booster for Brevard County, contributing to the local economy.

As Steele’s term nears its end, he hopes to continue supporting Cocoa’s project through volunteer efforts, pending lobbying regulations. Florida Rep. Tyler Sirois also expressed frustration with the decision, especially following the $2.4B rail funding announcement by the Biden administration.

Sirois remains optimistic about securing funding in January under new federal leadership, believing the Brightline rail station would ease traffic on State Road 528 and bring economic benefits to Cocoa. He is also exploring potential state partnerships to support infrastructure around the proposed station.

Local Support and Financial Commitments for Brightline Rail Station

Space Florida has been an enthusiastic supporter of the Brightline station, with its vice president, Mike Miller, emphasizing that enhanced connectivity benefits both the workforce and local communities. Space Florida will continue advocating for Cocoa’s project and regional infrastructure improvements.

In addition to federal grant prospects, the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization earmarked $15.5M for future station design and construction. Brevard County and the city of Cocoa have each pledged $5M, with Brevard’s contribution funded by the county’s 5% tourism tax.

Brightline, contributing land valued at $6.25M for the station, has also committed to covering the station’s $3M annual operating costs. Current Brightline routes run between Orlando, Miami, and West Palm Beach, providing residents with efficient hourly service options.

Advocates believe a Brightline rail station in Cocoa would support local tourism, generate jobs, and reduce vehicle emissions, benefiting both the community and environment. A study conducted by the Space Coast Transportation Organization identified Cocoa as the ideal station site due to land availability, access to highways, and potential for future expansion.

In his announcement of the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements grants, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized that these grants reflect a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and strengthening communities.

While Cocoa’s project was not approved, five other Florida projects received funding, including $7.31M for improvements to track infrastructure used by Florida Central and Florida Midland railroads.

Photo, source: www.floridatoday.com

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