Train Race

Big-time bidders are already lining up to provide the engines and cars for Florida's proposed high-speed rail line between Tampa and Orlando. However, the project's most crucial crossing could come soon after the Nov. 2 general election, in which support is running on opposite tracks.

German-based Siemens Industry Inc. is positioning itself as the front-runner for Florida, launching radio spots shortly after President Barack Obama pledged $1.25 billion to the 84-mile route Jan. 28. Obama and Vice President Joe Biden appeared at the University of Tampa, built by 19th-century railroad magnate Henry Plant, to announce the funding commitment.

Even at that event, protests against the need for high-speed rail were evident. But those for and against the project, which will require an extra $1.12 billion in federal funds, were allowed to get a first-hand look at what the train may look and feel like during a four-day exhibit Oct. 7-10 at Tampa's Museum of Science and Industry.

Siemens is sponsoring the exhibit, which will make its way to other Florida cities, including a mockup of its Velaro electric engine that already runs in Germany, Spain, Russia and China. The company won't disclose how much it has spent on such marketing so far this year, including radio spots and full-page color newspaper ads.

“It's cheaper than flying everybody over to Europe to ride the rails,” says Becky Johnson, director of corporate communications for Siemens' North American mobility division in Sacramento, Calif. She will be escorting the engine mockup, which allows visitors to take a simulated ride through Florida orange groves on a quick, smooth train trip.

The main purpose of the “Future of Florida High-Speed Rail Tour” is to educate and impress upon state residents the benefits of the new rail line in terms of creating jobs and preserving the environment. The train, which can carry up to 450 riders, can reach speeds up to 200 mph.

“Once it's actually up and running, we're looking at billions of dollars in potential economic development and tens of thousands of jobs beyond the actual construction project,” Johnson says. Once the project's bid process opens next month, Siemens plans to submit its proposal sometime next year, with a contract to be awarded in late 2011 and trains starting to roll in 2015, she says.

Siemens won't be the only one bidding. Canadian-based Bombardier Inc., which has domestic high-speed rail experience in the Northeast, is expected to be in the running along with 36 other companies registered in Florida, according to a report by German newspaper Der Spiegel.

With 5,000 employees and operations already in Florida, Siemens considers itself well ahead of potential competitors, Johnson says: “We're confident that we're the best provider for Florida.”

Besides, the whole thing could be easily rendered moot depending on the outcome of the governor's race next month. Democrat Alex Sink of Thonotosassa strongly supports high-speed rail, while Republican Rick Scott of Naples does not.

“He is opposed to investing in projects that have little or no return on investment to the state,” Scott spokeswoman Bettina Inclan says. “We have seen no reports that suggest the bullet train would be self-sufficient.”

Johnson, a Florida native, says Siemens won't speculate on the outcome of political races here or in other states where proposed high-speed rail lines face GOP opposition.

“We just hope those elected to office see high-speed rail as a long-term investment in our infrastructure,” she says. “You need an integrated transportation system to be able to remain competitive in the global marketplace.”