In a significant move towards improving public transit, Miami-Dade County has officially received nearly $100 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the South Corridor Rapid Transit Project. This development marks a major step forward for the county’s public transportation plans, with the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) formalizing the acceptance of the funds during a recent meeting.
The funding, part of the FTA’s Capital Investment Grant (CIG) Program, was announced in May 2020 by President Donald Trump as part of a larger allocation for transportation projects across the nation. The South Corridor project in Miami-Dade is set to benefit from this $99.9 million investment, which aims to enhance the area’s rapid transit capabilities.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez expressed his gratitude for the federal partnership, particularly recognizing U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart’s efforts in securing the transit funding. He also acknowledged the support of U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and Deputy Administrator Jane Williams, both of whom have played pivotal roles in advancing the project.
The Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), under the leadership of Director Alice N. Bravo, P.E., applied for the federal Small Starts grant in August 2019. Thanks to the swift approval process, funding for the South Corridor Rapid Transit Project was secured in record time. With the total project cost estimated at $299.9 million, the federal contribution of $99.9 million through the FTA’s CIG Program will be instrumental in making this project a reality.
Alice Bravo, known for her commitment to enhancing public transportation in Miami, stated, “We are beyond thrilled to be receiving this substantial Capital Investment Grant from the Federal Transit Administration. Public transportation is a lifeline for many, and this investment will help us improve rapid transit solutions and bring much-needed relief to Southern Miami-Dade County.” Bravo emphasized the importance of public transit in connecting people to essential services such as jobs, schools, and healthcare, and expressed her vision for creating a more efficient and accessible transit system.
The South Dade Corridor Bus Rapid Transit Project, which will cover 20 miles from the Dadeland South Metrorail Station to SW 344th Street in Florida City, is expected to significantly transform the existing Busway. This transformation is set to provide faster, more reliable transit services, improving connectivity for residents from Florida City and Homestead to Dadeland and Miami’s Central Business District.
This grant represents Miami-Dade County’s first major federal investment in transit infrastructure since the 1993 Metromover extension and the 1999 South Miami-Dade Busway project. In collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), which will contribute up to $100 million as a local match, this federal grant will help realize the South Corridor’s role within the broader SMART Plan.
For more information on DTPW services, visit miamidade.gov/transit or download the GO Miami-Dade Transit app. Stay informed by following DTPW on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or by subscribing to Mobility 305 for regular updates.