March 11--The company planning to build a train between South Florida and Orlando International Airport said Monday it has hired a former Walt Disney World executive to run the $1.5 billion system.
Donald Robinson, who lists himself as semi-retired on his LinkedIn account, is now the president and chief operating officer of All Aboard Florida owned by Florida East Coast Industries, a Coral Gables real estate company.
Robinson spent 16 years with Disney, including one stretch running all the hotels at Disney World. He left Disney in 2006 to develop a resort in the Bahamas and stepped down from that job last year.
All Aboard Florida also promoted Michael Reininger to chief development officer. He was hired by the company last year.
"We've now solidified the executive management team for All Aboard Florida," said FECI President and CEO Vincent Signorello in a news release. "Both Don and Mike have successfully developed consumer brands and introduced unique customer experiences to the travel industry. Their partnership will ensure that our intercity passenger rail project sets the new world standard for travel and hospitality."
With stops expected in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, All Aboard Florida hopes to start running by 2015. Company officials have spent months negotiating an agreement with the Orlando airport, but have not yet signed a deal.
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