A fleet of automated shuttles, known as “people movers,” will soon transport South Florida travelers via elevated tracks near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, offering a convenient new transit method. Another similar project will serve Port Everglades, providing quick transit from hotels to cruises and other destinations.
Renderings: Broward County
Renderings obtained by the South Florida Sun Sentinel showcase these upcoming transit projects. While such systems are common in other communities, Broward County officials promise their versions will be more modern. “We’re a little late getting it,” said County Commissioner Beam Furr. “Most other airports of our size have people movers. The good thing is we get to learn from them, and ours gets to be the most modern."
The People Mover
The Automated People Mover will operate 60 to 65 feet above ground, shuttling travelers around Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and connecting to the future Intermodal Center, which will house a parking garage, bus and taxi spots, and potentially a Brightline stop. Pending regulatory and funding approvals, construction is expected to start within two to four years and be completed by 2030. The people mover will cover a 2.1-mile loop, initially serving various terminals, car rental facilities, and the airport's parking garage. Future plans include a pedestrian bridge connecting the people mover to the airport’s upcoming Terminal 5.
Renderings: Broward County
The Light Rail
The light rail transit project will connect the Broward County Convention Center and Port Everglades to the airport’s Intermodal Center, with potential future expansion west to Sawgrass Mills. This 3.5-mile stretch is expected to serve over 130,000 riders annually and could be completed by 2028. The light rail, also elevated, promises to provide efficient and futuristic transportation for tourists and locals alike.
Anticipated Benefits
“These projects are long overdue,” said Mayor Nan Rich. Commissioner Michael Udine added that the plans are “very futuristic, convenient and cost-effective,” highlighting the advantage of tourists getting transportation without having to step outside. He emphasized that these developments will “pay dividends well into the future.”
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