FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – All Aboard Florida began construction on its first station to be built in South Florida on Wednesday.
"Today marks the start of progress on what will be one of the most transformative, history-making endeavors for Fort Lauderdale and the state of Florida," said Michael Reininger, president and chief development officer of All Aboard Florida. "Now that construction has begun, Broward County is one step closer to becoming a more mobile, connected region that will realize the economic and environmental benefits from the creation of thousands of jobs during construction, expanded business opportunities and an enhanced quality of life."
The passenger train service from South Florida to Orlando released photos of what the new Fort Lauderdale station will look like a few months ago, and Wednesday officials were finally able to break ground.
"For years, Broward County has wanted a train station to stop here in Fort Lauderdale, and so the fact that this is happening today, it's a realization that we thought might never happen," said Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief.
Local leaders aren't just excited about this new form of transportation but are also thrilled about its location, off Northwest Second Avenue between Broward Boulevard and Fourth Street. City officials call the area underutilized and claim the station will help bring growth to Fort Lauderdale.
"After this is built, it's going to bring a tremendous amount of economic energy, which the city needs," said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler.
The All Aboard train will connect Miami to Orlando, with stations in Fort Lauderdale, Miami and West Palm Beach.
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