Transit Team Urges Trump to Support Miami Rail Expansion

The transit team calls on Trump to intervene after Amtrak abandons Miami’s intermodal terminal project. Officials stress the station’s importance and seek federal support to ensure Amtrak honors its commitment. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Transit Team Requests Trump’s Help in Amtrak Dispute

Miami’s Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust insists Amtrak must fulfill its Miami agreement and asks for Trump’s intervention. Officials emphasize that Miami Intermodal Center enhances transit accessibility and regional connectivity for passengers.

Transportation leaders criticize Amtrak’s decision to withdraw from the Miami terminal despite state investments. The Miami Intermodal Center remains the best option, offering seamless links to rental cars, commuter rail, and bus networks.

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The trust expresses frustration over Amtrak’s reversal, citing negative impacts on Miami’s transit system. Leaders highlight airport access and multimodal connections as key advantages of Amtrak’s presence at the intermodal hub.

A formal memo urges Trump and Congress to take action, ensuring Amtrak’s prior commitments are met. Trust members argue that federal involvement is necessary to uphold Miami’s transit development goals.

Amtrak’s unexpected reversal surprised officials, considering Florida’s multimillion-dollar investment in Miami’s station. The state allocated an extra $5.6 million to modify roadways, optimizing the terminal for Amtrak’s operational needs.

Negotiations were nearly finalized when Amtrak unexpectedly ended discussions, leaving the facility vacant. Officials assert that abandoning the station contradicts previous agreements and misuses taxpayer funds allocated for transportation improvements.

Trump Urged to Address Transit Team’s Miami Concerns

Amtrak has not publicly explained its decision, but officials offer potential reasons. Transit trust chairman Robert Wolfarth suggests financial disagreements between Amtrak and Florida’s Department of Transportation as a primary issue.

Wolfarth acknowledges uncertainty about the resolution’s impact but remains optimistic. Officials believe renewed discussions could persuade Amtrak to reconsider its Miami terminal commitment with federal assistance.

The Miami Intermodal Center, planned since 1997, was designed as a major transit hub. Amtrak initially agreed to participate, integrating its operations into Miami’s transportation network before backing out unexpectedly.

Wolfarth argues that Amtrak’s absence contradicts the hub’s intended purpose. He insists that taxpayer investments were meant to enhance transportation efficiency, not redirect passengers to alternative stations.

Railway tracks were built specifically for Amtrak, adhering to its operational specifications. Miami transit leaders stress that keeping Amtrak involved aligns with the public interest and benefits regional commuters.

Amtrak operates as a federally chartered corporation structured for profit but controlled by the U.S. government. The federal administration owns all preferred stock, influencing Amtrak’s executive leadership and decision-making.

The President appoints Amtrak’s board members, with Senate confirmations required. Additionally, the Secretary of Commerce holds a seat on Amtrak’s board, reinforcing federal oversight in transportation matters.

Trust members inquire about congressional representatives with transportation committee positions who could advocate for intervention. Amtrak depends on federal funding for capital projects, making congressional support a crucial factor in decision-making.

A recent Amtrak letter informed Florida officials that Miami would no longer be part of its expansion plan. Instead, Amtrak intends to upgrade its existing Hialeah station to serve as its primary southern terminus.

This revised strategy includes a three-year plan to modernize Hialeah’s facilities. Miami transportation advocates argue that Amtrak’s decision disregards Florida’s financial investments in the Miami terminal project.

Officials insist that Amtrak’s withdrawal undermines years of planning for Miami’s transportation infrastructure. They continue pushing for Trump’s administration to intervene and ensure Amtrak honors its commitments.

Despite setbacks, the transit team remains determined to bring Amtrak back to Miami’s terminal. Advocates seek congressional and federal support, hoping to revive negotiations and secure a long-term resolution.

Source, photo: www.miamitodaynews.com

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