Virgin Trains U.S.A. has shut down its Brightline trains as a measure aimed at stopping the spread of the coronavirus.
The rail line, which runs between Miami and West Palm Beach, announced that its final northbound train left Miami at 5:50 p.m. Wednesday.
According to reports, the company is laying off 250 workers.
Brightline President Patrick Goddard says that suspended the service is in the best interest of South Florida and will help flatten the curve of COVID-19.
Tri-Rail, which runs throughout South Florida, is still running its trains while monitoring the pandemic, according to a note on its website.
Brightline Statement:
“Like all businesses, we are operating in a period of uncertainty which may last several months. Although a difficult decision, we have decided to temporarily suspend Brightline service in the best interest of the entire South Florida community as we all seek to flatten the curve. We are taking proactive measures with our Phase two construction teams in order to keep people employed and continue construction between Orlando and West Palm Beach. As we look ahead toward the economic recovery of Florida, projects like Brightline will help create jobs and a transportation network that will be more important than ever.”
Photo: Getty Images