More than 46,000 passengers have utilized Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service along the Mobile to New Orleans route in just 108 days since its launch on August 18, 2023. The service has exceeded projections, averaging over 420 riders daily on round trips between the two cities. This surge in ridership represents a significant increase, with officials now estimating that the service could attract double the original forecast of 71,000 riders within its first year.
Anthony “Tony” Coscia, Chairman of the Amtrak Board, highlighted the robust demand for the service, stating, “We are well on track to double the original estimate. Demand is very high across our network.” The positive feedback from passengers has also been noteworthy, with 96% reporting they were “extremely satisfied” with their travel experiences.
Strong Performance and Community Support
The figures were shared during an Amtrak Board of Directors meeting in New Orleans and come just ahead of a Southern Rail Commission (SRC) meeting in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, one of the four stops along the route. Notably, the service has achieved an impressive on-time performance rate of over 86%, attributed to reliable operations over the CSX, Norfolk Southern, and New Orleans Public Belt railroads. Even with occasional delays, nearly 90% of customers expressed satisfaction.
Ross, a representative from a local advocacy group, remarked, “It puts to bed the notion that no one wants to come to Mobile.” He has been instrumental in lobbying for the service’s return, emphasizing the positive impact it has had on local tourism and transportation infrastructure. The consistent growth in ridership each month has reaffirmed the community’s support for this service.
The Mardi Gras season, which attracts hundreds of thousands to Mobile and over a million to New Orleans, is anticipated to further bolster ridership. Mobile’s parades commence in late January, while festivities in New Orleans kick off as early as January 6, continuing through Fat Tuesday on February 17, 2024.
Investment and Future Prospects
The service’s success is backed by significant financial commitments from local governments. The City Council of Mobile has committed more than $3 million over three years to support operations through 2027. They have also encouraged the SRC to seek additional funding from the State of Alabama if necessary to ensure the service’s sustainability beyond the initial period.
Jennifer Mitchell, Amtrak’s Executive Vice President, expressed pride in the collaboration with local partners, stating, “Credit goes to the communities along the route, who have embraced this service faster than anyone could have predicted.” The partnership between Amtrak, Louisiana, Mississippi, and local authorities highlights the importance of regional cooperation in enhancing transportation options.
As Amtrak prepares for the busy Carnival season, there are currently no plans to adjust the twice-daily service schedule. This strategic decision is expected to yield positive results, particularly during a time when ridership typically declines across other routes.
The revival of the Mobile to New Orleans rail service marks a significant achievement for Amtrak and the surrounding communities, showcasing how effective partnerships and community support can lead to successful transportation initiatives.
