Tri-Rail vs. Brightline: Which is the Better
Option for Students?

Can the Pricey Brightline Beat the Value of the Tri-Rail?

By Kevin King, Staff Writer

There are currently two trains that can take students to and from different cities in Florida, including West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. While both methods are great for saving the environment and even beating rush hour traffic, their prices and experiences can be much different.

“I enjoy the Tri-Rail because of the price point.” said Nolan Vouri. “A one-way ticket from Boca to Miami is only $6.25. You can’t beat that.”

For catching flights home and watching sports games, trains seem to be the way to go. Students can forgo driving and parking and instead ride the train with friends. The Tri-Rail also has their Fort Lauderdale Airport station, which includes a shuttle that brings people directly to the airport. Along with FTL, Tri-Rail’s final stop is at the Miami Airport station, making it much easier than driving or catching an Uber.

“Both the Brightline and Tri-Rail are good for these things,” said Joey Lewis. “Trains are always on time; you will never have to stress about traffic, or when your Uber driver will arrive.”

To get from Boca Raton to Miami will cost $6.25 on the Tri-Rail, compared to the starting $19.50 it will cost people on the Brightline. However, the Brightline does have comfier seats, better Wi-Fi, and even food and beverage service. Brightline also only stops at a few stations, compared to the thirteen it takes Tri-Rail to get to Miami from the Boca Raton station off of Yamato Road. This means with a steeper price, the Brightline will get people to their destination quicker.

“It’s very lucky having a rail system in your area,” said Daniel Harder.

Since 2021, Harder has been advocating for the East-West Rail to build a network that would connect Albany, N.Y., with Springfield, Worcester, and Boston, Massachusetts.

“To be able to hop on a clean, modern train and leave your vehicle at home is a necessity most Americans have been missing out on,” said Harder.

Overall, for the student with a little extra time or those going to airports, the Tri-Rail makes more sense, especially considering its low price point. For those who want to have more of an experience and get to their destination faster, such as a sporting game, the Brightline is an optimal option. In the end, either choice is better for the environment and one’s bank account.