Locally owned businesses react to Amtrak launch nearing

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV) — The Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will soon roll through the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

With the intercity service set to roll out in just two weeks, taking passengers from Mobile to New Orleans, and making multiple stops along the way. Local businesses are looking ahead to the future and hoping the passenger train will bring plenty of new faces to the coast.

Local businesses in the Downtown Gulfport area are excited about the return of the the passenger train, as its expected to bring an influx of visitors to Mississippi’s coastal cities.

Locally owned shops like Tavi’s, Pop Brothers, and Coast Roast sit right off the train tracks and loading platform. They are hoping those getting off the train are looking for some local places to catch a bite to eat, grab a coffee, or a sweet treat.

The Mardi Gras Service will offer one morning and one evening departure each day from Mobile and New Orleans. It will make its first trip through the Mississippi Gulf Coast on August 18.