What does this picture from the Sun Rail signing tell you about the future of Orlando?

On Wednesday this week, I walked from our downtown office over to witness Sun Rail signing on Church Street. Our Governor, Charlie Crist was there as well as Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty and many other Senators and Representatives.

To me, this picture says so much about Orlando's and Central Florida's future! This is why:

1. "Jobs, Jobs, Jobs" Gov. Crist is predicting 8,000 new jobs to build SunRail. I look at this picture and see 50,000 jobs being created in future years! Mass transit WILL allow companies to expand and relocate in Central Florida. Just the areas around the stations will give you a glimpse of the room Central Florida will have for business expansion.

2. Mass Transit. You want a great city? This is the first step. The next one will be putting rail between the airport, medical city, innovation way, UCF and the convention center, I-Drive and the attraction. This should link to SunRail.

3. Look at the picture. In the background, you see the new arena being built. This entire area will be rebuilt and new businesses and jobs come with it. The new arena will be a major landmark in our great city and will promote Central Florida in way we never imagined.

4. Church Street Station. One word comes to mind...GOLDMINE! Sure, it has had its problems that last few years but with SunRail, the new Arena and the Performing Arts Center all within a couple blocks...I don't think it takes to much to realize that this place will prosper! Again, businesses and jobs will be created and employees will be able to get there without driving!

5. Excitement for the future. Central Florida is putting in place the infrastructure to not only handle future growth but to attract it! 9/11 and the current recession has proved that we need more diverse industries other than tourism and hospitality to help weather these storms. I look at this picture and see the center of Central Florida glowing with endless possibilities of a great future...and for you...JOBS!

Some other pictures from Wednesday's SunRail signing at Church Street Station in Orlando, Florida. (December 16, 2009)