The intersection of infrastructure and industry takes center stage in South Florida as the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) grapples with a decade-long challenge: how to accommodate increased rail traffic while protecting the region's vital marine economy. As Phil Purcell, president and CEO of MIASF, explains, this isn't just about boats versus trains—it's about finding workable solutions in America's sixth-largest metropolitan area.

South Florida's marine industry generates an astounding $18.5 billion economic impact, with $9.8 billion concentrated in Broward County alone. Supporting over 120,000 jobs just in Broward, this industry isn't merely about lifestyle; it's a powerful economic engine that attracts entrepreneurs, creates employment, and drives innovation. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show alone delivers $1.8 billion in economic benefit to the state and generates over $800 million in direct sales during its five-day run. With numbers like these, finding infrastructure solutions that support rather than hinder this industry is paramount.

The heart of the debate centers on the Florida East Coast (FEC) railway bridge crossing the New River. Built decades ago when train traffic was minimal, this bridge now struggles to accommodate both increased rail schedules from Brightline passenger service and the growing marine traffic on the river. The bridge's current operation creates unpredictable openings and closings, posing safety risks for vessels navigating the waterway and causing significant delays for marine businesses upstream.

Various solutions have been proposed over the years. Some advocate for a tunnel, which would completely eliminate the river crossing issue but comes with an extremely high price tag and potential complications for freight trains carrying hazardous materials. Others suggest an elevated bridge at various heights—from 26 feet to 80 feet—each with different impacts on the surrounding cityscape and marine traffic. After years of discussion, a 40-foot bridge has emerged as a promising compromise that would allow approximately 80% of river traffic to pass underneath without requiring a bridge opening.

The infrastructure challenge extends beyond just the river crossing. As Purcell notes, the east-west corridors like Broward Boulevard, Sunrise Boulevard, Commercial Boulevard, and others need grade separation from the train tracks to prevent traffic gridlock. He points to PGA Boulevard in Palm Beach County, which already has a flyover allowing traffic to flow unimpeded by train crossings. "Why would us, as a major metropolitan area in Palm Beach and other places, not have the same thing?" Purcell asks.

What makes this issue particularly complex is balancing multiple competing interests: marine businesses that need reliable river access, commuters who need efficient east-west travel corridors, passenger rail operators seeking to provide timely service, and freight companies that must move goods to and from the ports. The solution must accommodate all these stakeholders while remaining economically viable.

According to Purcell, doing nothing is simply not an option. The marine industry needs predictable bridge openings that allow businesses to schedule vessel movements reliably. "Everyone works on schedules," he notes. Fort Lauderdale's identity and economic vitality are intertwined with its reputation as the "Yachting Capital of the World." This isn't just about protecting an industry—it's about preserving the character and economic foundation of an entire region.

As Broward County moves forward with Planning, Design, and Engineering (PD&E) studies, the community must stay engaged. The MIASF continues advocating for workable solutions that protect jobs while acknowledging the need for improved transportation infrastructure. Whatever solution ultimately prevails—bridge or tunnel—it must serve both the immediate needs of businesses and residents while positioning South Florida for sustainable growth in the decades ahead.

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We encourage you to take an active role in the topics mentioned or to seek out additional information. You can easily do so by following the links provided below.

Florida Department of Transportation: FDOT.gov

Marine Industries Association of South Florida: miasf.org

Broward County News: https://webapps6.broward.org/newsrelease/View.aspx?intMessageId=14737

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