Mobile City leaders delay support for Amtrak

The Mobile City Council is delaying a proposal that endorses the return of passenger rail service to the Gulf Coast through Mobile. This follows action by Governor Kay Ivey, to delay any investment from the state to restore Amtrak service following damage from Hurricane Katrina. Ivey says she needs more information before the state commits funding. Mobile city officials recently delayed a resolution that would have asked the Governor to commit state funds necessary to return Amtrak service to the region. In Mobile, council members say they want more time to consider information about fares, ridership and logistical issues. Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson expressed concern about passenger trains potentially blocking access to the city's cruise-ship terminal. The overall costs to restore the service are estimated at nearly $66 million dollars. Alabama’s share would be close to $3 million.