Miami-Dade Boosts Regional Mobility with Longest All-Electric BRT in U.S.

With the launch of its new Metro Express BRT service, Miami-Dade County has ushered in a new era of high-capacity, sustainable mobility for South Florida. The 20-mile all-electric line—now the longest of its kind in the U.S.—represents a bold step toward cleaner, faster, and more connected public transportation.

Unveiled Oct. 27, Metro Express marks the first completed corridor of the county’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program—its most ambitious transportation investment in more than a decade. The service connects Florida City and Dadeland South, offering South Dade residents a reliable new option designed to match the speed and convenience of rail.

“Metro Express represents the future of transit in Miami-Dade,” said Stacy L. Miller, P.E., director and CEO of the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW). “Every element—from our all-electric fleet to the thoughtfully designed stations—reflects our focus on delivering reliable, comfortable, and sustainable service. This is not just a new way to travel; it’s a new standard for public transportation in our community.”

The corridor serves a growing population of more than 200,000 residents and 11,500 businesses within a one-mile radius. By improving access to jobs, schools, and services, the project is expected to strengthen economic vitality and spur transit-oriented development—including new affordable and workforce housing options near key hubs.

The $300 million project was realized through a strong public-sector partnership among Miami-Dade County, Florida DOT, and FTA, each contributing roughly one-third of the total funding. This three-way collaboration not only reflects shared investment in regional mobility but also demonstrates the growing federal and state support for electrification in public transit.

Built along the South Dade TransitWay, Metro Express features dedicated lanes, signal priority, and rail-style gate arms that speed service and improve safety. Fourteen architecturally distinct stations dot the corridor, each designed with passenger comfort in mind—off-board fare collection, level boarding, Wi-Fi, shaded seating, and air-conditioned waiting areas.

At the heart of the system is its fully electric fleet, advancing Miami-Dade’s sustainability goals while reducing noise, emissions, and operating costs. By investing in zero-emission vehicles and charging infrastructure, the county is signaling a long-term commitment to cleaner air and climate resilience.

“With Metro Express, we welcome a new era of transportation in Miami-Dade County,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “The one-of-a-kind Metro Express promises to move more people to more places with greater reliability and comfort than ever before. This project is a game-changer for South Dade as it delivers on our promise to bring faster, more efficient, and convenient transit options to our residents—while protecting our air quality and our environment.”