If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping off a plane at Orlando International Airport and hopping straight onto a train that takes you to Disney Springs, that dream might be a step closer to reality. The Brightline train to Disney Springs line is back in the spotlight—this time with support from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD). And yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.
Here’s What’s Actually Happening
On March 28, 2025, the CFTOD Board of Supervisors is scheduled to meet. One major item on their agenda: approving $500,000 to help fund a study for the Sunshine Corridor train project. This corridor would link Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Disney Springs, with a stop near Universal’s Epic Universe.
Let’s break this down in simple terms.
The Train Line Basics
This isn’t just any train. This is Brightline, the high-speed rail company that already runs service between Miami and Orlando. The goal now? Expand the route across Central Florida with stops that matter to both locals and tourists—starting with the airport, Epic Universe, and Disney Springs.
This route is being referred to as the Sunshine Corridor. The plan includes:
• A stop at Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• A station near Universal’s Epic Universe (opening in 2025)
• A station near Disney Springs
Where the $6 Million Study Comes In
Before any tracks are laid or stations are built, a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study needs to happen. This is the step that gets things moving with state or federal funding.
The study alone is expected to cost $6 million, and the money is nearly raised:
• Universal Orlando committed $2 million
• Florida Department of Transportation matched with another $2 million
• Seminole County chipped in $500,000
• City of Orlando added $500,000
• Now, CFTOD is looking to add $500,000
That brings the total to about $5.5 million. If the CFTOD votes yes on March 28, the funding goal is nearly complete.
Why This Matters for Disney Fans (and Everyone Else)
While the CFTOD is technically separate from Walt Disney World, it’s funded by taxes that Disney pays to the district. So yeah, Disney money is indirectly helping push this thing forward. If the Brightline train to Disney Springs line becomes real, here’s what you could expect down the line:
• A car-free, traffic-free option to get from MCO to Disney Springs
• Easy access for tourists traveling to Disney, Universal, or both
• A modern transportation system that connects the most-visited areas of Central Florida
What’s Next?
If the funding is approved, the PD&E study could take up to 2 years. And the actual construction? That’s another 4 to 5 years, assuming all goes according to plan.
So while you won’t be riding the train next year, this is the step that starts the clock.
Real Talk: Why You Should Care
Here’s the deal. Central Florida is growing fast. Between Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, and the expanding airport, transportation is becoming a real issue. The Brightline train to Disney Springs line would change that. And for families, travelers, and locals? That’s huge. No rental car. No rideshare surge pricing. No I-4 traffic stress. Just fly in. Grab your bags. Ride the train. Enjoy Disney Springs.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just another project getting tossed around. The money is almost fully committed. The district vote on March 28 is a big step toward real progress.
If you’re planning a trip in the next year or two, nothing changes right now. But if you’re a fan of forward-thinking travel options—or just want fewer headaches getting to your Disney resort—keep your eyes on the Brightline train to Disney Springs line.
It’s not here yet. But it’s closer than ever.