Staff Writer
After years of public demand for weekend SunRail service in Central Florida, a new report reveals the significant financial investment it would take to make that a reality. According to data presented during a recent meeting of the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission (CFCRC), operating SunRail on weekends could cost up to $26.3 million annually, in addition to a one-time infrastructure investment of $61.8 million.
This is the first time the CFCRC has received a detailed cost analysis for potential Saturday and Sunday train operations, marking a major step forward in the ongoing discussions about expanding SunRail beyond weekday service.
Cost Breakdown for Weekend SunRail Operations
The operational costs vary depending on the extent of service:
Saturday-only service is estimated at $22.7 million per year
Full weekend service (Saturday and Sunday) would cost approximately $26.2 million annually
In addition, the commission would need to either purchase or lease additional trains, with capital expenses estimated at $61.8 million to acquire the necessary locomotives and cab cars.
Rising Ridership, But Demand Questions Remain
While weekday ridership has seen consistent growth — averaging 5,184 daily riders in spring 2025, a 13% increase over last year — it remains unclear whether weekend usage would warrant the hefty investment. Projections suggest between 4,600 and 9,500 riders could use the service on weekends.
June ridership rose 16% year-over-year, signaling strong momentum. Some officials believe actual weekend usage could surpass projections, with additional demand driven by tourists and service workers traveling to and from popular destinations and events.
Tied to the Bigger Picture: The Sunshine Corridor
The discussion around weekend service is closely linked to the broader Sunshine Corridor project, a proposed expansion of SunRail that would connect Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Convention Center, and the region’s theme parks. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings noted that weekend rail service could be a step toward easing traffic congestion and enhancing regional mobility — two long-standing goals for the corridor.
The Sunshine Corridor, still in early planning stages, would likely require near-continuous service to support its tourism-heavy route — making weekend operations an essential part of that vision.
What’s Next?
CFCRC board members expressed cautious optimism but agreed that more analysis is needed. A workshop is scheduled in the coming weeks to further evaluate potential funding models, ridership forecasts, and long-term benefits before any final decisions are made.
While no timeline has been set, the release of the cost estimates marks a pivotal moment in the conversation about expanding Central Florida’s rail infrastructure.
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