NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - A nearly sold-out train returned to Mobile, Alabama, on the Mardi Gras line Friday evening (Sept. 12), carrying travelers like Rene Mead, leaving New Orleans after letting the good times roll.
“Oh it’s been wonderful. We went to the WWII Museum and the Titanic Immersive. (We) ate good food and heard good music,” she said.
The Southern Rail Commission said the Mardi Gras line has exceeded projected demand since launching last month, with riders traveling between New Orleans, the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Mobile.
The highest demand so far has come from people visiting for New Orleans Saints home games. In response, Amtrak added about 170 extra seats every Friday, Saturday and Sunday for each home game weekend to accommodate the Who Dat Nation.
“We just started to find that these trains are selling out,” Southern Rail Commission Chairman Knox Ross said. “It was over double what we anticipated what we would do.”
Travelers like Patrick Mead were impressed with how easy it was to reach New Orleans and start enjoying the city’s attractions.
“I think that it’s just blossoming. I think we are on to something. I think this is a great future,” he said.
With hundreds of passengers opting to travel by rail, the local hospitality industry is already seeing the benefits.
“This project brings the Gulf Coast together and brings the neighboring community together,” said Jonathan Rogers, complex director of sales and marketing for the Westin New Orleans.
Rogers said his property has seen an increase in tourists following the launch of the Mardi Gras line.
With the Southern Rail Commission considering additional rail cars for holidays, the Sugar Bowl and Jazz Fest, Rogers expects tourism will continue to rise.
“It’s just such a walkable destination. You don’t need a car so to be able to leave that at home, check into your hotel, grab a cocktail and walk around the French Quarter. It’s a perfect mode of transportation,” Rogers said.
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