So one day in early June we were talking to a Seminole County business owner who
remarked: “I don’t know about this SunRail thing. I don’t think it’s going to
be successful.”
I wish that naysayer could have been with
us on June 25, 2014 when we boarded the Party Train.
The Party Train is the second passenger
coach of northbound SunRail train departing Sand Lake Road at 6:45 a.m.
While there’s no disco ball hanging from
the ceiling, it’s definitely a party. The eclectic group of passengers who ride
in that coach every work day are lots of fun and laughs.
In a little less than 2 months of riding
together, the Party Train passengers, have formed their own community. There
are about 20 of them. Most board at Sand Lake Road, but a few get on a little
further up the line at Church Street and Lynx Central Station.
They know each other by name, and look out
to see who’s missing and who is running to get aboard. But it’s much more than
that.
They laugh and joke with each other and their
favorite SunRail conductor. One recent morning the subject was the U.S. victory
over Ghana in the World Cup. About half the riders explained the soccer rules
and team standings to the other half who were still learning about the game.
On another morning they discussed ideas
for one rider’s upcoming wedding – color of the dress, cake design and music.
And they’re even planning an onboard baby shower for another rider.
Sometimes the discussions are just
among seatmates. One rider confided that he is in recovery and sometimes
discusses that issue with another rider who is facing similar challenges.
The folks on the party train are much more
than a group of strangers. They’re close friends, almost family. What a way to
start the work day!
It just goes to show you that SunRail
is much more than a means of transportation. It’s become a way of life.
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