From WFLX:
Copyright: Getty Images/AP
Note: We now know the train that derailed in Washington was going 80 mph in a 30mph zone.
It’s too early to tell if speed was a factor in the Amtrak train derailment in Washington, but speed and safety is an important reason why people in Martin County oppose Brightline’s phase two.
Starting next year, some Stuart business owners and locals will see Brightline’s construction headed their way.
“I can’t even believe it got this far,” said Trina Langston, owner of Simple Pleasures Bath and Body in Downtown Stuart.
The Brightline passenger rail project received the final approval it needed to start its expansion to Orlando. The 110 mile-per-hour passenger train would stop in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and then zip through Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River Counties with no stops to its final destination, Orlando.
“Have you watched the news the past 6 months? How many times have you seen derailment? It happens at least weekly, we see it on the news,” said Langston.
The derailment of an Amtrak train launching on its inaugural run from Seattle to Portland and has Langston worried.
“Think if the train derailed here this can affect everything,” said Langston.
The train tracks run right through Downtown Stuart’s most well known intersection, confusion corner.
Although some are worried about what could go wrong being so close to a high speed train, it doesn’t cross Steven Navarro’s mind.
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