Pascagoula to Move Train Tracks Out of Downtown

Pascagoula will soon be moving the railroad tracks that run through the heart of downtown. This week, the Port of Pascagoula commissioners approved an agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation for a $14 million grant. The port will be matching $4 million to complete a major project involving a wood pellet facility, modifications of the wharf, and the relocation of the rail interchange.

Mark McAndrews, the Port Director for the Port of Pascagoula, says, “Rerouting the Mississippi export railroad line from where it crosses the Escawtapa River, down an existing lead, and moving the interchange from downtown Pascagoula to east of Highway 63. It results in a net closure of 16 closings of downtown Moss Point and Pascagoula.”

Rerouting the rail lines will mean less congestion in the downtown areas. Many trains throughout Mississippi will be speeding up next week. Kansas City Southern Railroad Company says that in various locations in south Mississippi, once the train has crossed the boundary line, trains will go from 25 mph to 49 mph. The railroad company hopes this speed increase will enhance economic development opportunities in the area.