Amtrak Mardi Gras service tops early ridership forecast

Amtrak Mardi Gras service has seen stronger-than-expected demand in its first seven months. As reported by WWL Louisiana, the route carries more than 10,000 passengers a month. It runs between New Orleans and Mobile. Also, passengers told the outlet the onboard experience has been positive.

Amtrak Mardi Gras service outpaces projections

Barbra Nelson was among the passengers arriving from Mobile on Tuesday morning. “The train ride was wonderful, and I would do it over and over and over again,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Gulf Coast route returned in August after a 20-year absence, as previously covered by Railway Supply. At the same time, the service had once been part of the Sunset Limited. That route stretched from Mobile to Los Angeles.

Ridership has moved well past Amtrak’s early forecast. “They were projecting 71,000 the first year– 71,000 riders. In 6 months, we’ve already had 80,000,” said Nikki Moon, a Bay Saint Louis tourism advocate who works closely with the Southern Rail Commission.

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Still, Moon said restoring Gulf Coast train service has been worth the effort. “It has been a great, great boon for all of us along the coast,” she said.

Gulf Coast route demand stays above 10,000 a month

The most recent Amtrak reports show a slight monthly decline. This followed the initial excitement. In addition, Amtrak ridership above projections has continued, with no month falling below 10,000 passengers. That equals more than 300 a day on average.

Moon said the trains are selling out regularly. For example, Amtrak added a car during Carnival season. It did so to handle Carnival season train demand.

New Orleans to Mobile train brings back memories

For some people, the New Orleans to Mobile train also revived travel memories. They were getting off in New Orleans on Tuesday. “I hadn’t had a train ride from Mobile since back in the late 60’s, since I rode from Mobile to New York,” said Nancy Richardson.

Separately, other riders also spoke warmly about the trip. “I enjoyed that ride, oh my god, I can’t wait to come back, and I’m gonna bring my church family,” said Sheila Hale.

There are two departures a day from New Orleans. One is at 7:35 a.m. The other is at 5:35 p.m.

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