Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service: Gulf Coast Rail Revival

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Introduction

An Amtrak train commenced service from Mobile, Alabama, this morning, marking the first time in 20 years the railroad has served the Gulf Coast region. This inaugural run of the Mardi Gras Service between New Orleans and Mobile followed celebratory events held on August 16 in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Service Launch and Schedule

The new service offers morning and evening departures from both Mobile and New Orleans.

Background

The Mardi Gras route represents Amtrak’s return to passenger service along the Gulf Coast since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Amtrak began accepting bookings for the service last month.

Advocacy and Demand

“This is a really big deal. It took years of patient advocacy — by the Rail Passengers Association, our allies and countless local constituents — to make it happen,” said Rail Passengers Association President and CEO Jim Mathews in an email to RPA members on August 15. The first week of service on the route was sold out even before the service launch date.

Conclusion

Amtrak has launched its Mardi Gras Service, providing twice-daily passenger rail service between Mobile and New Orleans after a 20-year absence, with bookings beginning last month.

Company Summary

Amtrak: A passenger railroad service.

Rail Passengers Association: An organization advocating for rail passengers.

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