The Interstate 4 Passenger Rail Study led by the Polk Transportation Planning Organization has begun. The study explores the feasibility and benefits of adding a potential high-speed passenger rail station along I-4 in Polk County, Florida. The study will help identify potential station locations and amenities most important to potential riders.
To support the study, Polk TPO has created a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) comprised of county officials, technical experts and community representatives to provide technical insight and local knowledge to help identify potential station locations and evaluate the opportunities and challenges associated with each site. The group will also consider station amenities, connections to other forms of transportation and surrounding development that could help maximize community benefits.
Public input will additionally help shape the study. Polk TPO is inviting Polk County residents and visitors to complete an online survey available in English and Spanish. Responses will help the study team understand travel needs, interest in passenger rail service and priorities for a potential station along I-4. The survey is available at https://www.research.net/r/
“Passenger rail service is developing across the state of Florida. Brightline is currently operating between Orlando International Airport and Miami and there are talks on expansion westward. Hillsborough County has already conducted their study and identified potential rail station locations, and we want to ensure Polk County is prepared if a possible station is considered for our region.” said Polk TPO Executive Director Ryan Kordek.
Kordek emphasized that public participation is essential to demonstrating community interest and accessing the demand for high‑speed passenger rail service in Polk County.
“The study will position Polk County to be ready if a passenger rail line is developed along the I-4 corridor. Completing this research now will allow the TPO to present data‑driven information to potential passenger rail providers as planning discussions advance,” said Kordek.
The first phase of the study will identify potential station locations. The next phase will evaluate environmental and land development considerations, along with technical guidance and public feedback, to develop a shortlist of recommended station sites for Polk TPO. The study is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
More information on the I-4 Passenger Rail Station Study is available at https://polktpo.com/plans-and-