Florida Gov. Charlie Crist officially signed legislation paving the way for SunRail, Central Florida’s first commuter rail train, on Dec. 16.

The SunRail project will connect metro Orlando from as far north as Seminole County to Osceola County, as well as include the construction of a statewide rail transit program connecting Orlando to Jacksonville, Miami and Tampa.

The SunRail project is expected to create 10,000 jobs and more than $8 billion in economic impact over the next 25 years. The statewide rail project will create up to 30,000 jobs and thousands more over the year once the system becomes operable.

“Future generations of Floridians will look on this day as a bold step toward modernizing how residents and visitors will travel in our state,” Crist said in a prepared statement.

In addition to the rail systems, the bill will:

• Create a Florida Rail Enterprise within the state Department of Transportation — much like the Florida Turnpike Enterprise — that would oversee passenger ­rail operations.

• Create a Passenger Rail Commission to oversee the design, build, operations, financing and maintenance of the fiscally ailing Tri-Rail commuter system in South Florida and other future rail systems.

• Eliminate the previously proposed $2 increase to rental car surcharges as a funding source and look to create a new, steady funding source.

“Today, Florida is embracing the opportunity to lead the nation in developing a comprehensive transportation system, thereby ensuring our competitive edge in the 21st century global economy. A comprehensive transportation system, creating opportunities and avenues to connect employers and employees, is integral to building a stronger future for Florida,” said Florida Senate President Jeff Atwater, in a statement.