Miami, Florida – On February 10, Miami-Dade County will witness the temporary closure of all three loops of its Metromover system. This disruption, attributed to a helicopter flyover for building improvements at the Miami Tower, requires the shutdown for safety reasons, affecting the entire network of Metromover stations.
Alternative Transportation Offered
To mitigate the impact on commuters, Miami-Dade County is offering a complimentary bus shuttle service to bridge the gap between stations until they reopen. The county has assured Metromover users that they will be kept informed about the reopening of the stations through various channels, including service alerts, social media updates, and the GO Miami-Dade Transit app.
This closure is an isolated event, with no other temporary shutdowns of the Metromover system anticipated in the near future. Importantly, there are currently no plans for a long-term Inner Loop closure.
Upgrades in Progress
The Metromover, a staple of downtown Miami’s public transit for over three decades, is undergoing significant upgrades to enhance its service and extend its operational lifespan. These improvements are part of a broader Metromover Upgrade Project aimed at modernizing the system to continue its free service in the downtown, Omni, and Brickell areas efficiently.
The Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) is spearheading this ambitious initiative, which started in July 2022. With a focus on addressing the wear and tear of 30-year-old subsystems, the department is undertaking extensive construction work. This includes overhauling the operating and guideway electrical systems, updating the central control center, and upgrading track switches.
Future Enhancements and Funding
The $150 million project promises to deliver significant benefits upon completion:
- Enhanced reliability to minimize service interruptions.
- Increased vehicle frequency, reducing wait times for passengers.
- Prolonged system lifespan, ensuring another 30 years of service through track rehabilitation.
The Metromover Upgrade Project receives financial backing from the People’s Transportation Plan (PTP) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), showcasing a committed investment in the future of Miami-Dade’s public transportation infrastructure.
