South Dade Transitway Delayed Again: New Opening Set for Late Summer!

Dade City, Florida, USA - Miami-Dade County is bracing itself for the anticipated opening of the improved South Dade Transitway, now expected to roll out by late summer 2025. This 20-mile route is set to transform public transport in the region, running from Kendall to Florida City on a dedicated right-of-way known as the South Corridor. Despite multiple delays announced by the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), construction that began in 2021 aims to provide service comparable to Metrorail, complete with prepaid fares and level boarding at 14 modern stations for 60-foot battery electric buses, as Florida Politics reports.

However, challenges persist as the county tackles the rollout. Currently, testing of fare collection boxes and gate-enforced intersection crossings are slowing down progress. As of March, only 17 of the 100 electric buses approved for purchase in January 2023 had been received. Miami-Dade Commissioners approved the South Corridor renovation back in August 2018, with an initial cost estimate of $243 million. Yet, the project has faced significant hurdles, including pandemic-related delays and rising costs, now exceeding $100 million. On the brighter side, consistent support from the community is evident; a nonbinding query on the August 20 Primary ballot revealed that 78.5% of voters are in favor of expanding Metrorail and other public transit services.

What’s Inside the Transitway?

The South Dade Transitway represents a significant leap forward in public transportation, featuring Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)—a high-quality bus system designed to enhance travel experiences. As detailed by Miami-Dade County, BRT includes key components like dedicated lanes, traffic signal preemption, and off-board fare collection, ensuring faster, more efficient journeys. Once operational, the system will link Dadeland South Metrorail station to SW 344 Street Park & Ride Transit Terminal, boasting the title of the longest battery electric BRT system in the United States.

With a planned service schedule that will see buses running every 7.5 minutes during peak hours and 15 minutes during off-peak times, riders can expect improved frequency and reduced travel durations. The fleet’s all-electric vehicles promise to connect communities to vital job centers, schools, and shopping areas. Moreover, enhanced features such as air-conditioned waiting areas and improved security measures, including 24-hour surveillance, are set to make this transport line more user-friendly and secure. Gate arms will be installed at 46 intersections, ensuring safety while allowing for longer green lights for buses on major routes like US-1, though minor delays for cross traffic may occur.

Taking a Step Back

Looking at the bigger picture, the South Dade Transitway aligns with the broader SMART Plan, which aims to enhance transportation services for 1.7 million residents within two miles of its six rapid transit corridors. This plan, adopted in April 2016, underscores the county’s efforts to modernize its infrastructure and offer a viable alternative to traditional Metrorail expansion, which has faced budget constraints since its completion in the 1980s. As Aileen Bouclé, Executive Director of the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), points out, the decisions made today will profoundly impact future transit access.

While the South Dade Transitway is a cornerstone of improved public transport, other routes like the Beach Corridor and Kendall Corridor are also slated for enhancements. Miami-Dade’s proposal for additional services reflects a commitment to tackling longstanding infrastructural challenges in the area. As Vice Mayor James McDonald has noted, securing federal funding will be critical for the realization of these ambitious transportation upgrades. If recent voter support in cities like Houston and Maine for transportation funding is any indication, community backing for public transit revitalization remains strong.

In summation, while the delays surrounding the South Dade Transitway may feel frustrating, the underlying vision for better public transport in Miami-Dade is clearer than ever. With continued community support and a focus on future investments, the region may indeed be on the right track towards a more efficient transit system.