Amtrak’s Mardi Gras train along the Gulf Coast has posted a far stronger first year than expected, surpassing its first-year projections months ago and finishing the year with nearly four times the anticipated ridership.
According to reports, the train — decorated with Mardi Gras themes and festivities — drew 150,000 riders in its first year, compared with a projection of 38,000, and generated more than $5 million in revenue.
“What can you say?” said Todd Stennis, director of government affairs with Amtrak, before boarding the service in downtown Mobile. “It’s exciting. Everyone who uses the service is excited about it. It speaks volumes for the Gulf Coast communities from Mobile to New Orleans and their support for this service and for those who ride it.”
Boarding facilities lag behind demand
Despite the train’s popularity, the boarding facilities — especially on the Mobile side — are noticeably lacking. The downtown stop in the Port City is uncovered except for a pop-up tent, which causes problems for riders in both rain and heat.
There has been talk of building a permanent facility, discussion that has likely been accelerated by the popularity of the Mobile-to-New Orleans trip, though no plans have been announced.
“We get that feedback from customers that they want to see something more permanent like they see from the other stops,” said Ashley Rains, a spokesperson for Visit Mobile. “The conversations are always open. Everyone wants this to be as comfortable as possible…We continue to hear of people coming in for day trips and finding the train platform serving as a gateway into our downtown entertainment district.”