All Aboard Amtrak

It was a big day for South Mississippi as a passenger rail service rolled through the Coast for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. The train carried Governor Phil Bryant, Amtrak officials, local politicians and News 25’s Kristen Durand all along the Coast.
From New Orleans to Jacksonville, Florida and of course, the hot spot in between: our Gulf Coast. “Amtrak will help bring those people to the Bay and to the Gulf Coast. Let’s get on the train today.  God bless you. Thank you.,” said Governor Phil Bryant.
And with that, Amtrak began its journey through South Mississippi, a test run as part of a comprehensive study to see what it takes to bring the rail service back to the Coast which is something the area hasn’t seen since Hurricane Katrina ripped apart South Mississippi. Vice chairman of the Southern Railroad Commission John Spain said, “Obviously, it will take time to have it implemented but it’s not that big a deal. Once we get all the answers we can start working with the political leaders across the Gulf Coast. Hopefully to make it happen in the next few years.”
A goal which many Coast residents are on board with, its first stop was in Bay St. Louis. Resident Ann Madden said, “All the people that it will bring in, all the places that we can go on the train.”
Then a quick stop in the Port City. Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes said, “Let’s have Amtrak become a regular stop along this route.”
And rolling through Biloxi. Biloxi Mayor Andrew ‘FoFo’ Gilich said, “It’s just another way to get to what we feel is a special place on Earth.”
And the Flagship City of Pascagoula gives the train a green light.
Not only does the rail provide an extra mode of transportation but also more economic development opportunities and easier access to all the downtown areas our Coast has to offer. Mississippi Delegate for the National Association of Railroad Passengers Paul Nelson said, “I like what the train does for our communities. It can highlight our great downtowns, our great cultures, our authentic charm and it means jobs and business.”
If the test run gives any indication of what’s to come, getting Amtrak back on the Coast will make for one exciting ride.