On September 2nd, the Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County’s economic development agency, hosted its monthly “Access Breakfast” to address the county’s transportation concerns.
Former county manager George Burgess, CEO, Becker & Poliakoff, moderated the meeting attended by county officials and key transportation agency directors, representing FDOT, Tri-Rail and the County.
Addressing transportation concerns and making commitments to improve transit options, plans are based on areas of highest demand, infrastructure and funding schemes. As an example, extending Metrorail costs $200million a mile; other options are utilizing the existing CSX line to the MIC hub. FDOT’s priority corridors are 27 Avenue, Kendall and Flagler Street. New technologies were discussed as well as involving public-private partnerships to fund options.
However, as County Commissioner Bovo noted: “If you expect policy makers to unite on an overall plan, you’ll grow old in your car. Business leaders need to drive this.”
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- Commissioner Bovo detailing plans for transit expansion options.
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- Panelists participating in the Access Breakfast event. Harold Desdunes, FDOT, District 6; Jack Stephens, Exec Dtr., South Florida Regional Transportation Authority /Tri-Rail; Beacon Council President & CEO, Larry K. Williams; Alice Bravo, Director, Miami Dade Transportation; County Commissioner Esteban Bovo, Donna Abood, Beacon Council Chair; and moderator George Burgess.
