Brevard County Officials Confident About Funding for Brightline Station in Cocoa

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Brevard County Officials Confident About Funding for Brightline Station in Cocoa

Officials in Brevard County are expressing renewed optimism regarding the funding for a Brightline passenger rail station in Cocoa. After facing a setback last year when a $47.46 million grant was denied by the Federal Railroad Administration, recent discussions suggest a more favorable outcome for this new funding cycle.

Brevard County Commission Optimism

During a Brevard County Commission meeting on October 14, Commissioner Thad Altman shared promising updates from the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization (SCTPO). He indicated that conversations with SCTPO staff have led to optimism about the project’s eligibility for federal funding, despite last year’s grant cycle yielding no approvals.

“We really got some fantastic news… the staff of the TPO have never felt more positive,” Altman remarked. “This could be a game changer for Brevard County and all of east Central Florida.”

Funding Opportunities and Project Status

Currently, approximately $5 billion is available in federal funds for rail projects nationwide. Although the exact amount for Cocoa’s Brightline station remains uncertain, it could be close to the previously sought $47.46 million. Grant applications must be submitted by January 2026, with decisions expected in the spring.

Abby Hemenway, spokeswoman for the SCTPO, emphasized the organization’s commitment. “We remain dedicated to working alongside Cocoa and our regional partners to make the Cocoa Station a reality,” she stated. “We’re optimistic about our upcoming opportunities, particularly regarding the National Railroad Partnership Program grant.”

Cocoa’s Preparedness for Funding

Cocoa spokeswoman Samantha Senger expressed hope for success in the upcoming funding cycle. She noted that since last year, the project has made significant progress. Preliminary design work is underway, and environmental assessments have been completed.

“We’ve received positive feedback regarding our chances of funding. We’re now further along in the project,” Senger added. The planned station site is near Clearlake Road, closely positioned to State Roads 524 and 528.

Collaborative Efforts for Brightline Station

With a novel memorandum of understanding between Cocoa and Brightline, there is a clear commitment to advancing the station project. Support from local legislators and officials further strengthens the initiative.

Diverse Funding Sources

The federal grant represents a significant aspect of the project’s budget but will not cover all expenses. Funding contributions include:

$15.5 million from the SCTPO for design and construction work.
$5 million approved by Brevard County commissioners.
$5 million pledged by the city of Cocoa.
$2 million in federal appropriations.
$6.25 million value of land donated by Brightline.

Additionally, Brightline will cover about $3 million annually for the station’s operations and maintenance.

With the groundwork in place and collaborative support, Brevard County is poised for a new frontier in transportation, bringing the Brightline station in Cocoa one step closer to reality.