Front view of the Capitol

Congressman Carter Celebrates $21 Million to Restart New Orleans to Mobile Amtrak Passenger Rail Service

January 13, 2025
Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) announced up to $21,117,115 for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to restore intercity passenger rail service along the Gulf Coast from New Orleans, LA to Mobile, AL. This funding was made possible by the FRA Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program, funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Congressman Carter proudly helped craft and voted for.

 

“Today marks a historic step forward for our Gulf Coast communities. This funding is not just restoring a rail line, it is reigniting economic opportunity, expanding access to transportation, and reconnecting families and businesses across the region,” said Rep. Carter. “Thanks to the transformative Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this investment demonstrates our commitment to rebuilding stronger and more connected communities. The New Orleans to Mobile Amtrak line is more than a route; it’s a bridge to growth and prosperity for generations to come. All aboard!”

 

This funding combined with previous federal awards—including a $176 million grant from the FRA in 2023 for infrastructure improvements—will help re-establish two daily roundtrip passenger rail services to communities along the route and connect the area to Amtrak’s national rail network. Today’s award will cover operating costs of the line during the first three years of service. Importantly, the project will also offer potential economic development advantages to nearby rural and disadvantaged communities.

 

Background

 

Passenger rail service between New Orleans and Mobile has been suspended since Hurricane Katrina struck the area and destroyed critical rail infrastructure in 2005. Congressman Carter has long advocated for restoring passenger rail for the New Orleans region and entire Gulf Coast, including re-establishing this line, as well as connecting New Orleans to Baton Rouge.

 

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