WPB Magazine Fall 2016 | Page 67

AAF commissioned local West Palm Beach street artist Smog to create an outdoor mural that is displayed on the station fence by the 500 block of Clematis Street. The 24-foot long mural depicts a woman riding the train and looking out the window at a man who is eagerly awaiting her arrival as another Brightline train passes. “The artwork symbolizes the connections among people that the Brightline service will make possible”, said Julie Edwards. Some of Brightline’s features are competitive pricing, smart phone and online ticketing (wait for the new App), conveniently located stations in downtowns, connectivity to major transportation systems, power outlets at each seat, food and beverage selections, bike and luggage storage facilities, complimentary wi-fi, fully wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly. The economic impact that All aboard Florida will bring to South Florida will be meaningful, -$6.4 billion in direct economic impact to Florida’s economy over the next eight years. Over 10,000 jobs on average created per year through the rail line construction (mid-2014 through mid-2017), then over 5,000 jobs on average per year after the rail line construction is completed through 2021. Brightline is eco-friendly and will allow that up to 3 million vehicles be removed from the roads each year. There will be a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption. Leveraging the existing corridor means minimal impact to Florida’s precious natural resources. The trains will transport passengers at speeds between 79 and 125 miles per hour. Construction includes new track between Orlando and Cocoa, as well as new signal systems, upgraded crossings, double tracking and other improvements for the existing stretch between Cocoa and Miami. State-of-the-art trains and stations will feature the bestin-class innovation and technology. The line is designed to optimize passenger time and comfort with on-board amenities such as Wi-Fi, and will be just as fast as flying but easier and more convenient. The estimate is a time savings of 25-30% over existing travel options. At approximately 900’ long, the brightly painted Brightline trains are much lighter, and quicker than the freight trains that operate in the existing corridor. The four stations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and at the Orlando International Airport will have inter-modal connectivity at each station with nearby access to retail, dining, hotel and attractions in each city. There will be frequent, on time and convenient departures. In West Palm Beach there will be CitiBikes, buses and taxis available, and walking to downtown restaurants and stores is just feet away. The placement of stations will encourage riders to utilize the existing Metrorail system in Miami, the SunRail in Orange County, and the future Wave streetcar in 24 foot long mural, commissioned by Brightline, curated by Nicole Henry and created by street artist Smog on a fence of the All Aboard Florida Station construction site in West Palm Beach. 4th quarter edition - 2016 67