What It Is Used For
Since CRT uses rail lines, it cannot mix with commuter or
bus traffic. Because of this, commuter rail is usually used
to connect outlying regions to centralized cities over longer
distances (typical travel times can be 45 minutes or longer).
Riders need to follow a schedule because CRT provides long-haul,
limited-hour service. That is, it primarily operates during
“peak” commuter times – i.e. morning and
evening rush hours – to shuttle folks to a downtown
or employment center area and then back home.
Local Picture
A current commuter rail study is underway – the Central
Florida Commuter Rail – that proposes using existing
railroad tracks as its main artery. This route would consist
of 61 miles of service to DeLand, Orlando and Kissimmee.
Phase 1 is 31-miles and will connect DeBary/Saxon Boulevard
to Orlando Amtrak/Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC).
The corridor would provide a higher speed transportation
option for commuters traveling from as far as Daytona Beach
on the northern end and from Polk County on the southern
end. The train would provide at least five trips during
“peak” morning (5:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m.) and afternoon
(3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.) rush hours. It would operate on a
30-minute frequency during those peak hours and a two-hour
frequency during non-peak hours.
