Pros and Cons
Here you'll find a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of bringing Amtrak back to Mobile and the Gulf Coast.
Pros
Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana will all receive a part of the $178 million CRISI infrastructure grant, including $69 million toward track and improvements in Mobile County and $3.5 million for the Port of Mobile, which will result in a positive economic impact on our region.
It will bring $20 million in wages, 450 jobs, $10 million in overall tourism impact, and $1.7 million in total lodging tax revenue.
The Port of Mobile, CSC, and affected freight companies support Amtrak's return.
More people taking the train will mean fewer accidents and traffic on I-10 between Mobile and New Orleans.
This will connect residents with the entire nationwide network of Amtrak.
The ability to travel across the country via passenger rail.
It will help attract and retain residents.
Improve accessibility for the more than 2 million residents in the proposed service area between New Orleans and Mobile, including a growing senior population.
Expanding the US rail system is key to reducing carbon emissions from cars, trucks, and planes. Traveling on an Amtrak train is 46% more energy efficient than driving and 34% more efficient than flying. More modern, electrified rail routes have even less environmental impact.
The Alabama Governor's office supports the return of Amtrak.
This will add to our growing infrastructure in Mobile alongside the upcoming Downtown International Airport and the cruise terminal.
Provide a critical evacuation route for Gulf Coast cities.
Serve the workforce of growing industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, aerospace, shipping, and the military.
It will help increase the quality of life of residents along the route.
Cons
It is a one-time investment of up to $2 million, with the potential for less given the state's willingness and if ridership exceeds expectations.
A no vote will cause our region to lose out on millions of dollars and added tax revenue, in addition to harming our reputation with our neighbors and others across the country who are depending on us.