 |  | As many of you may know, our transit community had a remarkable day on January 12 when Tri-Rail embarked on its inaugural journey to the much-anticipated MiamiCentral Station. For those unfamiliar, Tri-Rail, South Florida's long-running public commuter rail system, has been serving residents and tourists for more than three decades now. To continue evolving its services, Tri-Rail took significant steps to further enhance connectivity and accessibility for everyone who lives, works, or plays in our region. This accomplishment isn't merely about the new train service; it represents our steadfast commitment to transportation advancements, underscoring how dedicated we are to providing people in our community with multiple effective and efficient commuting options around South Florida. In May 2023, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA)/Tri-Rail was awarded a $71.1 million federal grant as part of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding will allow the agencies to replace 32% of their aging railcars with new locomotives and passenger cars. The railcars will be safer, more efficient, and reliable and minimize disruptions to service. SFRTA/Tri-Rail is also looking to increase its fleet. To do this, the Broward MPO is leading our neighboring MPOs to leverage and provide federal and state funding to Tri-Rail to purchase new railcars. The funding will provide more service to the existing route and to the expanded service into the MiamiCentral Station. We are excited to be part of the continued growth and expansion of these projects, which bring broader connectivity within our region.
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The Broward MPO joins Tri-Rail in celebrating the start of this exciting new chapter. Serving as an example for transit systems nationwide, the inauguration of the MiamiCentral Station marks a pivotal milestone for developing transportation infrastructure in our area. MiamiCentral Station is expected to breathe new life into our public transportation system by serving as an interconnected hub where Tri-Rail, Brightline, Metromover, and Metrorail all come together. Beyond just easing traffic congestion and improving mobility, this will also significantly impact economic development and urbanization patterns, boosting property values in the vicinity while creating sustainable urban environments. We applaud Tri-Rail's commitment to quality and continuous innovation as they consistently strive to broaden horizons, push boundaries, and introduce a world of possibilities for mobility in South Florida. The launch at the MiamiCentral Station speaks volumes of the outstanding team at Tri-Rail, who made this milestone a reality. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in making this venture a success. This development is not just a major leap for Tri-Rail but also a moment of collective victory for all of us here in South Florida who champion transit enhancements and long for better commuting solutions. With Tri-Rail service up and running at MiamiCentral Station, the future of transit in our community seems bright. Congratulations! | |
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Broward MPO Updating Unified Planning
Work Program Budget
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The Broward MPO is updating its Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) budget again! As part of this update, we ask for feedback from our partners and the community via a “Call for Plans & Studies.” This effort allows us to create a more comprehensive planning document and seek input on areas we may have neglected during the planning process. Should you have any ideas or feedback, please don’t hesitate to contact us at emac@browardmpo.org or (954) 876-0052. We look forward to hearing from you! | |
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State of the Region Award
Honoree Spotlight: Alan Hooper
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Alan Hooper, a Fort Lauderdale native and president of Hooper Construction, has been honored with the Broward MPO's State of the Region Visionary Award. His tenure at the company's helm dates back to 1994. During this time, he has overseen the successful development and construction of various projects. These include waterfront homes, multifamily high-rises, restaurants, office buildings, and historical renovations. Hooper's firm commitment to excellence in every aspect of the job, from safety precautions to adhering to schedule, underscores his drive to provide unsurpassed quality to all his clients. Mr. Hooper's dedication extends beyond his professional obligations into active participation in the local community, evidenced by his accolades, such as Fort Lauderdale Citizen of the Year in 2006 and Downtowner of the Year in 2008. Formerly a board member and Chairman of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), Mr. Hooper is a passionate advocate for the future implementation of light rail transit in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Additionally, he continuously contributes to community organizations such as the Fort Lauderdale Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Jack and Jill Children's Center, Florida State University Seminole Boosters and Alumni Association, and St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. | |
Get Your Tickets for the 2024 Safe Streets Summit | |
The 2024 Safe Streets Summit theme is “Embracing Bicycle and Pedestrian Mobility” in Southeast Florida. Southeast Florida is being transformed into a vibrant and connected community where safe, sustainable, and accessible streets empower everyone to embrace the joy of bicycle and pedestrian mobility. We envision a future where our streets are the lifeblood of our communities, fostering health, equity, and environmental stewardship, one step or pedal stroke at a time. The 2024 Safe Streets Summit is our catalyst for change, where collaboration, innovation, and advocacy unite to create streets that belong to everyone. | |
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Listen to the Latest Episode of
Our Award-Winning Podcast
| In this episode of our Let’s Talk Transportation podcast, Representative Christine Hunschofsky joins Broward MPO Executive Director Greg Stuart for a look back at her journey from her roots in Boston to her current role as State Representative for District 95. Representative Hunschofsky shares her perspectives on everyday challenges like navigating roundabouts and parallel parking, public service, and finding common ground. Together, they remember former County Commissioner and State Representative Kristin Jacobs and reflect on how she influenced Representative Hunschofsky’s career. | Wilton Manors Transportation Master Plan Community Meetings Happening This Week | Broward MPO Hosts FHWA Employee As Part of Professional Development Program | |
The Broward MPO welcomes a new member to our professional family, Sonia Rodriguez Reyes, as part of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Professional Development Program. With her impressive background in landscape architecture and environmental management, practical experience from her role with a local engineering firm, and significant contribution working with the FHWA Puerto Rico/US Virgin Islands Division, we are excited to host Sonia as she learns about the MPO. Over the next three months, Sonia will apply her skills and passion for creating change, as well as optimizing our transportation infrastructure, to continue making Broward a wonderful place to live and work. Welcome, Sonia! For more information about the FHWA Professional Development Program, click here.
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