Pinellas County Commissioner Ronnie Duncan has urged Tampa Bay lawmakers this week to support the disputed $641-million plan to bring commuter rail to the Orlando area. And the Tampa Bay Partnership -- which promotes business investment -- has begun supporting the project that critics say benefits CSX too much.

"While I am certainly aware of the revenue shortfalls of state government, I believe that investing in this initiative will produce significant returns in the future," Duncan wrote to lawmakers Monday. Duncan is vice chairman of the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority.

Supporters hope Duncan and the partnership can help provide momentum as lawmakers decide whether to approve a crucial insurance-related piece of the deal in the waning days of the legislative session.

The state wants to pay Jacksonville-based CSX for $150-million for its rail
line, and the rest of the money will help improve freight rail lines.
The plan would also hold CSX harmless for any damages it causes to
commuter trains, if lawmakers approve. Advocates say it will ease congestion and help Florida's economy.

Duncan, a board member of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, is an advocate for more rail in Florida. He told Times staff write Will Van Sant that rail eases road congestion, eliminates pollution and creates opportunities for economic development.

He wants CSX to allow their existing lines around Tampa Bay to be used for commuter trains. If the Orlando deal spoils, he fears similar proposals for Tampa Bay won't take off.

"Their interest level is obviously going to wane if they can't strike a deal there," Duncan said of CSX. "I would hate to see them have a bad taste in their mouth if this thing falls apart."