Green Works Government

Transportation

SunRail – Orlando and Central Florida were successful in receiving state and federal funding for the 61-mile rail line. Construction will begin early 2011 and finish by 2013.

High Speed Rail (HSR) – Florida received funding to construct the first phase of HSR between Tampa and Orlando. Work has already begun and the line should open by 2015. The second phase will connect Orlando to Miami.

Electric Vehicles (EV) – The City intends to become the EV leader in the Southeast

February 2010 – The City became a pilot city for the all-electric Nissan Leaf.
March 2010 – Orlando, Orange County, OUC and Progress Energy created “Get Ready Central Florida” to prepare Metro Orlando for EVs.
June 2010 – Orlando was selected as a “ChargePoint America” community, facilitating the installation of 300 Coulomb electric vehicle charging stations. The first station was installed in front of City Hall.
August 2010 – The City placed orders for 5 Nissan Leafs.

Lymmo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Expansion – Orlando completed one of the first BRT systems in the U.S., over 10 years ago. The city is undergoing studies to expand Lymmo between Florida and Orlando Regional Hospitals, and between Thornton Park and the Citrus Bowl.

Biking – In 2010, the City installed 6.7 miles of bike lanes. In total, the City has 202 miles of bike lanes. The bike to work event drew a record 150 participants.

Green City Fleet – The City fleet now has 268 flex-fuel vehicles capable of running on E85. The City hopes to begin making its own ethanol in the near future. The City also used 18,800 gallons of biodiesel.

LED Traffic Lights – The City has converted most of its traffic signals to LED lights, resulting in annual energy savings of $350,000 per year. The City and OUC are piloting LED street lights to potentially yield greater energy and cost savings.

Car-Sharing and Bike-Sharing – The City is exploring opportunities for additional transportation options in the downtown area. Car- and bike-sharing reduce the need to own a vehicle. Instead people can use a pool of conveniently-located vehicles and bikes.