Crist to sign rail bill in Tampa, 3 other cities

Associated Press file photo (2003

The bill could help the state win a $2.5 billion federal grant to link Tampa and Orlando with a high-speed rail line.

By TBO.COM | Staff
Published: December 14, 2009

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TAMPA --

Gov. Charlie Crist is scheduled to sign Florida's rail legislation bill that won legislative approval last week at multiple events Wednesday in Tampa, Tallahassee, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

The Tampa signing is scheduled at 11:15 a.m. at the Marion Street Transit station across from the proposed High Speed Rail station.

The bill provides funding to support South Florida's Tri-Rail commuter service and Orlando's proposed SunRail commuter system, sets up a state passenger rail authority and demonstrates to federal officials the state's willingness to support rail initiatives.

That is believed to be a necessary selling point for Florida's request for $2.6 billion in High Speed Rail stimulus funds.

Reporter Ted Jackovics can be reached at (813) 259-7817.