House set to vote on central Florida commuter rail bill linked to federal high-speed money

Florida House lawmakers set to vote on rail bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida House is set to vote on a bill that would clear the way for the proposed SunRail commuter system in central Florida.

The chamber Monday is expected to pass the legislation. It’ll then go to the Senate, where the outcome remains in doubt. Lawmakers there have twice before defeated similar measures.

Supporters say SunRail will create thousands of desperately needed jobs and may help Florida attract $2.6 billion in federal stimulus money to also build a high-speed rail line between Orlando and Tampa.

Opponents say its a costly boondoggle.

SunRail is expected to cost $2.66 billion over 30 years with the state, federal and local governments each contributing $700 million and the rest coming from fares.