Safety and SunRail highlight Orlando's latest budget

By Jim Carchidi

Orlando just completed its yearly budget sessions with the approval of additional funding for public safety items and infrastructure needs. The city is also part of a new commission taking over ownership and funding of SunRail operations.

City council approved Orlando’s 2025/26 budget of nearly $1.8 billion on September 22. Among the fiscal priorities is public safety, which received a $25 million increase. The additional funds will go toward 16 new police officer positions and a paramedic cross-training program for firefighters.

Infrastructure was another economic focus with $7.5 million earmarked for roadway pavement improvements and $4.3 million for sidewalk, bridge, and trail rehab.

Projects geared toward improving the quality of life in city neighborhoods were also approved with $4.2 million dedicated to playground renovations and upgrades to sports fields and boat docks. A $2.2 million increase in parks spending will fund improvements to community recreation areas.

SunRail operations transfer

Orlando is one of five local governments taking over operations of the SunRail line. Photo by: Jim Carchidi

The city also assumed a new fiscal responsibility this year as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) began the process of turning over operations and ownership of SunRail's 61-mile, 17-station service to the local governments in which it operates.

Orlando, along with Volusia, Seminole, Orange, and Osceola counties, make up the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission. The group began operations payments to FDOT in January, which added up to $63.5 million for 2025. FDOT will continue to operate the line for the commission until the transition is fully complete in 2027. 

The operations cost per region is based on ridership, leaving Orlando with the largest payment of $18.7 million. The rest of the 2025 breakdown was as follows:

• Orange County: $14.5 million
• Osceola County: $12 million
• Seminole County: $11.6 million
• Volusia County: $6.7 million

Once SunRail operations are fully transferred, FDOT will assist the commission in securing state and federal grants to aid funding. The commission meets bimonthly and will work to increase ridership, create partnerships for expansion studies, and add service to Orlando International Airport, Orange County Convention Center, and International Drive in what’s called the Sunshine Corridor.

The next round of city budget sessions will begin in July of 2026. Click here for information on accessing Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission meetings. 

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