The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has committed up to $389.5 million for the Northeast Corridor Rapid Transit Project. This funding moves the project into the next stage of the FTA's Capital Investment Grant program. According to Miami-Dade County, the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) is now working on a revised financial plan to get Congress's approval before finalizing the funding agreement.
“We are grateful to the Biden-Harris administration and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg for continuing to support this critical project and our SMART Program to offer more affordable transportation options to our community. The Northeast Corridor and its local commuter rail service will help reduce traffic and give many residents, especially in underserved areas, more options to access jobs, education and opportunities. This service will be a gamechanger for those who need it most as we continue building the future of transit in Miami-Dade,” Mayor Daniella Levine Cava told Miami-Dade County's news release.
The Northeast Corridor project, spanning 13.5 miles, aims to improve movement throughout the county by adding new stops in areas like Wynwood and Little Haiti. Commissioner Eileen Higgins highlighted the federal funding as a reflection of the community's vision, noting its importance in reducing traffic, improving air quality, and expanding access to jobs and education. She expressed pride in advocating for this vital project alongside partners.
The total cost of the project is estimated at around $927.3 million, with the federal grant covering about 42%. The state's transportation department has committed another $200 million, roughly 22%, and the remainder will come from the People's Transportation Plan (PTP). Commissioner Marleine Bastien emphasized that the project is not just a transit development but a commitment to democratize mobility for all residents, particularly enhancing transport options for underserved communities. It is also a crucial step toward reducing traffic congestion.
The DTPW will work closely with local and state agencies, including FDOT Districts 6 and 4, Brightline, and Broward County, to manage engineering design and begin procurement and pre-construction activities. The DTPW Director and CEO, Eulois Cleckley, highlighted this as a key step toward rapid transit goals for Northeast Miami-Dade residents and businesses. For updates, Miami-Dade County encourages public transit enthusiasts to follow DTPW on social media and subscribe to Mobility 305, the monthly newsletter.
