The TECO Line Streetcar has routinely broken ridership records since FDOT awarded HART a $2.7 million Innovation Grant in 2018 allowing the streetcar to go fare-free and expand service — increased frequency and service hours.
The funding is the largest amount ever awarded for rail safety and rail supply chain upgrades through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program.
Metro’s monthly bus and rail ridership is now at 79% of its 2019 pre-pandemic level. Average weekend ridership is now at 75% of pre-pandemic (August 2019) levels and 79.5% for average weekdays.
The railroad, working with the City of Jefferson, advanced a series of accessibility improvements in accordance with the ADA that include a new platform, ramps, signage, lighting, and guardrails.
Reps. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Colin Allred (D-TX), and Dina Titus (D-NV) encouraged Buttigieg to provide robust funding from the Infrastructure IIJA to support high-speed rail projects underway in their states.