SunRail rolling in central Florida
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
Central Florida’s new SunRail regional/commuter rail service has been in operation since May 1 along a 32-mile route comprised of 12 stations between DeBary and Sand Lake Road, near Orlando International Airport. The new service marks completion of the first phase of the $1 billion Central Florida Commuter Rail Transit (CFCRT) project.
RailWorks Track Systems and joint-venture partner Archer Western began construction in 2011 on the $168 million design-build project, which is managed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The joint-venture team was responsible for the complete design and construction of the initial 32-mile operating segment, with RailWorks leading track and signal construction.
The initial operating segment utilizes a busy CSX Transportation main line, also shared with Amtrak trains, that runs through four Florida counties. The joint-venture team performed construction work under rail traffic. During the construction period, RailWorks maintained all track and signals on the entire corridor, which is 61.5 miles long.
RailWorks Track Systems constructed 19 miles of double-track, installed 49 turnouts, rebuilt 42 crossings, constructed track for three yards as well as the Operations Control Center and the vehicle storage and maintenance facility, and installed a new signal and communications system. The joint-venture team was responsible for earthwork, cast-in-place and precast reinforced concrete, station construction, and railroad bridge rehabilitation.
SunRail will connect DeLand in Volusia County to Poinciana in Osceola County when ifully completed in 2016. Phase 2, which will begin construction in late 2015, will extend the line north to DeLand and south into Poinciana. http://corporate.sunrail.com/welcome/page/aboutsunrail#sthash.ojwd6ENG.dpuf
