NEW ORLEANS and MOBILE, AL — Amtrak will launch a new line between New Orleans and Mobile, AL, on August 18, restoring passenger rail service along the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. The new Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will offer morning and afternoon departures from both cities, with stops in Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay Saint Louis in Mississippi. One-way adult coach fares start at $15, with lower prices for shorter trips.
“The return of passenger rail gives both visitors and locals a new way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Louisiana special,” Glenn Ledet, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, said. “Re-starting the Amtrak line is a significant step toward establishing self-sufficient passenger rail service in the Gulf Coast Region.”
Trains along on the route will offer coach and business classes in addition to cafe services. Pets will be allowed on the train in carriers, and golf bags will be accepted as along as space is reserved beforehand.
“This is a win for Louisiana and the entire gulf Coast region. The Amtrak Mardi Gras Service reconnects our communities, supports local businesses, and opens the doors to new jobs and tourism. It’s proof of what we can accomplish with sustained investment in regional transportation,” Rep. Troy Carter, S. (D-La) said.
The new service will hit the rails just 11 days before the 20 year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) said reopening rail service along the coast has been hard, but rewarding work. “It has been almost 20 years since Hurricane Katrina interrupted this service, and its reopening has been a lot of hard work. The Mardi Gras Rail will expand travel options and allow more Americans to experience the beauty and economic benefits of the Gulf Coast,” Senator Wicker said.
A complete one-way trip expected to take 3 hours 43 minutes. Tickets are on sale now.
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