Plans for a new rapid bus system to expand public transit as a low-cost alternative to Metrorail in the area prompted the Miami Herald to ask local CEOs there thoughts on which mode is more desirable.
Miami-Dade County rendering of proposed BRT corridor.
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Miami-Dade County rendering of proposed BRT corridor.
MIAMI — Miami-Dade County leaders have unveiled a new rapid bus system to expand public transit as a low-cost alternative to Metrorail. The Miami Herald asked local CEOs there thoughts on whether they think buses are the way to go, or if rail is more desirable for frequent commuters.
Some of the responses included:
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- I’m a strong proponent of rail. Light Rail is really the direction that I think most cities are moving to. [Brian Brackeen, CEO, Kairos]
- Alleviating our traffic problems is going to require a multi-pronged solution. Rapid buses are part of the answer, but we also need to invest in rail and technology that helps people plan their commutes. There is no single-track solution. [Ramon Abadin, president, The Florida Bar, and partner, Sedgewick Law Firm]. For the full story, click here.
The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.
The service is a flexible, reservation-based transit service designed to close the first- and last-mile gaps and connect riders to employment for just $5 per day.
The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.
The agreement provides competitive wages and reflects strong labor-management collaboration, positive working relationships, and a shared commitment to building a world-class transit system for the community, said RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins.
The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.