Miami-Dade County has officially inaugurated its groundbreaking Electric BRT System, marking a significant leap forward in public transportation for the region. Launched on October 27, 2025, this 20-mile corridor is now recognized as the longest all-electric BRT line in the United States. The Metro Express connects Florida City to Dadeland South, promising a faster, greener, and more efficient commute for thousands of residents as part of the Electric BRT System‘s operational network.
A New Era of Transit in South Florida with the Electric BRT System
The Metro Express is a cornerstone of Miami-Dade County’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program, an ambitious initiative aimed at expanding and enhancing the county’s mass transit infrastructure. The project represents one of the most substantial transit investments in South Florida transportation in over a decade, signaling a new era for public transportation in the county. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, stated, “With Metro Express, we welcome a new era of transportation in Miami-Dade County. This project is a game-changer for South Dade as it delivers on our promise to bring faster, more efficient, convenient transit options to our residents that will help us reduce congestion and connect people to jobs and opportunity – while at the same time protecting our air quality and our environment.” The implementation of this Electric BRT System is a testament to forward-thinking urban planning.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure and Technology for the Electric BRT System
The 20-mile South Dade TransitWay, now home to the Metro Express BRT, features dedicated lanes designed for speed and reliability, along with rail-style crossing gates and signal priority to minimize disruptions for the Electric BRT System. The system boasts 14 new signature stations equipped with amenities such as level boarding, off-board fare payment, air-conditioned waiting areas, free Wi-Fi, shaded seating, bike storage, and charging stations. These modern stations are designed to offer a comfortable and convenient experience for all passengers utilizing the Electric BRT System.
At the heart of the Metro Express are 60-foot articulated battery-electric buses, provided by New Flyer. This all-electric fleet aligns with Miami-Dade’s climate action strategy to reduce emissions and build a more sustainable community. The county is also expanding its electric bus fleet, with plans for 100 new battery-electric buses, supported by the development of a new South Dade Transit Operations Center designed to service and maintain these zero-emission vehicles, further enhancing the Electric BRT System‘s capabilities.
Funding and Collaboration for the Electric BRT System
The substantial $300 million initiative was a collaborative effort, jointly funded by Miami-Dade County, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Each of these entities contributed approximately $100 million towards the project, underscoring the shared vision for advancing this crucial Electric BRT System. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart highlighted his role in securing significant federal funding, including $109.4 million for planning and construction, emphasizing collaboration with local leaders and federal agencies to advance Miami-Dade’s transportation priorities and the success of the Electric BRT System.
Economic and Environmental Impact of the Electric BRT System
The Metro Express is expected to significantly strengthen the South Dade corridor, an area home to over 200,000 residents and 11,500 businesses. By providing faster, more reliable, and environmentally friendly transit options through the Electric BRT System, the system aims to reduce congestion, connect residents to jobs and opportunities, and promote transit-oriented development. The all-electric nature of the buses will contribute to improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions, aligning with broader sustainability goals for the region and making the Electric BRT System a model for future initiatives.
A Milestone for Public Transit: The Electric BRT System
The launch of Metro Express positions Miami-Dade County as a leader in adopting innovative and sustainable public transportation solutions. It represents a critical step in the county’s long-term vision for a connected, efficient, and environmentally conscious transit network, offering a viable and modern alternative to private vehicle use for thousands of commuters via the Electric BRT System. The project also serves as a potential stepping stone for future transit expansions, with stations designed to be adaptable for potential rail integration should ridership and funding allow. This news is trending as a significant development in the world of public transportation and urban mobility, with the Electric BRT System at its forefront.
