Brightline continues high-speed testing on Orlando line

A southbound Brightline train struck and killed a pedestrian crossing the tracks this morning.

David C. Lester

Brightline is continuing high-speed testing on its new line to Orlando. Here are some details from their press release.

Brightline will continue critical work on its Orlando extension with train testing in northern Brevard County that will see trains travel up to 79 mph over the next week and increase to 110 mph in
early 2023. The work, known as a signal and track cutover, will integrate a new second railroad track into the existing corridor and will take place along a 13-mile section of track, spanning 18 railroad crossings from Sharpes through Cocoa and Rockledge.

Flaggers will be present at all crossings continuously from 6 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 29 through 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 5 while the new rail signal system is commissioned and train testing up to 79 mph can be expected along the corridor. Work is expected to bring additional wait times at ALL railroad crossings. Stay off the tracks and never go around crossing gates.

Residents should be alert, follow the law around active railroad tracks and railroad crossings and be aware that once the second track is commissioned, rail traffic could run on BOTH tracks. Failure to follow the law could result in fines, points on your license or loss of life.

“Safety around railroad tracks starts with the way in which people interact with the railroad” said Katie Mitzner, director of public affairs, Brightline. “We are reminding the public – pedestrians, motorists and cyclists – to be vigilant about rail safety. Never drive around crossing gates, don’t try to beat a train, always stay off the tracks and only cross at a designated crossing. The safety message is simple: look, listen, live.”

For additional local information about rail safety, please visit Brightline’s website.

Read more articles about passenger rail.

For brief news updates and commentary, please follow me on Twitter @davidclesterRTS.