WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today released the following statement on the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) decision to proceed with Amtrak’s application to reinstate Gulf Coast passenger rail service. 

“After years of in-depth planning, it is time for Amtrak services on the Gulf Coast to restart,” said Wicker. “I thank the STB for recognizing the importance of this issue by moving to consider Amtrak’s case. Implementing twice-daily service between New Orleans and Mobile will increase access to jobs, boost tourism, provide a safe alternative to highway travel, and reduce roadway congestion. It will also continue to grow the coastal economy as it emerges from the pandemic, improving the overall quality of life in Mississippi.”