Orlando SunRail expansion faces delay

SunRail regional ("commuter") train service expansions south of the current system into Florida's Osceola County, and north to DeLand, face potential delays of at least six months, Florida's Department of Transportation says.

Delays in securing $126 million in federal funding assistance is the key cause for the potential delay, FDOT’s administrator in charge of SunRail told local media.

Federal officials say SunRail has not provided sufficient information on expansion plans, leading to SunRail being omitted from any mention within President Obama’s proposed fiscal year 2016 budget.

SunRail says needs $91 million to extend service to Osceola and $35 million to reach DeLand. The two extensions would nearly double the length of the system to 61 miles.

SunRail began initial operations on May 1, 2014, serving 12 stations along 32 miles stretching from DeBary, Fla., to Sand Lake Road, near Orlando International Airport. The initial line cost $168 million.