Brightline trains aren’t on the right track in South Florida. Ticket hikes are one reason why
Brightline trains brought convenience to South Florida commuters since 2018, as an inter-county service linking Palm Beachers with Fort Lauderdale and Miami. That is, until the trainline opened service from Miami to Orlando this past September and limited seats for local riders because it wasn't making as much money off them. So now, though Brightline peppers customers with special deals for this trip or that, neither pricing nor availability make Brightline a viable option for daily use by commuters.
Here are five reasons why Brightline's local customers might feel cast aside.
1. Brightline is increasing its ticket prices
Brightline has replaced its rate on the popular $10-per-ride monthly pass program to $35-per-ride, resulting in a $70 daily commute for locals, rather than the original $20.
Brightline ending $10-per-ride South Florida pass program to make room for Orlando riders
2. Brightline has limited seats available for local commuters
After making ticket prices outlandish to the average person, the train line has also limited seat availability for short trips between Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties to accommodate passengers making longer, more profitable trips to Orlando.
I rode Brightline in South Florida for years and I'm finally done. Here's why.
3. The Brightline app has issues
A few Brightline app users have explained on Reddit that they are running into issues using the service and wish the company's app was more useful. There've been complaints about connection errors, or of not being informed of delays, or given updates on the estimated times of arrival.
South Florida rail connections need a boost as Brightline steps back
4. Brightline is starting fixed rate 10-ride packs soon
Currently, commuters between Miami and West Palm Beach pay $399 for a pack of 40 one-way tickets. However, on June 1, Brightline will only sell 10-ride packs with stops between Miami and West Palm Beach — for a minimum of $350.
Brightline is still losing money, but Orlando extension has significantly boosted ridership
5. Brightline is adding trains, but not for locals
Brightline plans to buy more trains to meet demand, but mainly for long-distance riders. And the reinstatement of $10-per-ride monthly pass for commuters is highly unlikely.
There may well be some light at the end of this tunnel. Tri-rail officials are scheduled to vote this week to consider express service on its tracks (a few miles west of Brightline's) to Miami. Its trains are less luxurious and the ride a little slower — 1 hour and 40 minutes rather than 1 hour and 10 minutes — but the price is right: about $17.50 roundtrip.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Brightline trains fail South Florida with price increases, app issues
