SunRail to launch new service May 1 with free rides

SunRail will provide free rides for its first two weeks of service when the new commuter-rail system debuts in central Florida on May 1.

The free service will run through May 16, with regular revenue service for paying riders scheduled to begin on May 19. The free service is being offered to give passengers the chance to get used to SunRail's schedules, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials said in a press release.

The system's first phase will serve 12 stations from Debary in Volusia County through downtown Orlando and end at Sand Lake Road in Orange County.

FDOT officials will mark the service's launch on April 30 with an opening ceremony and celebration at the Sand Lake Road Station.