Abstract
In this article, the author outlines Florida's historic constitutional amendment endorsed by voters and the subsequent legislative and implementation actions that are moving forward the strategic planning of a high-speed rail network linking the state's five largest cities. Integrating the request for proposals into environmental impact study procedures and developing a new method to validate ridership estimates for investors, the Florida High-Speed Rail Authority is proceeding toward selection of a contractor to design, build, operate, maintain, and finance the first segment, from Tampa to Orlando.