The Southern Rail Commission has awarded Biloxi with a grant of more than $250,000 for improvements for passenger rail service on the Gulf Coast.
The announcement was made on Monday by the SRC which awarded more than $1 million to four coastal cities: Biloxi, Gulfport, Bay St. Louis and Pascagoula.
“This is a big step forward,” Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich said. “Amtrak passenger rail service is something that Biloxi, the cities on the Gulf Coast and the Southern Rail Commission has advocated for years and this award will help us to achieve this great economic and tourism development.”
The grant covers about half the cost of building a new platform to serve the new Amtrak passenger rail service, that could start in 2019.
Said Gilich: “Our Biloxi Coast Transit Center in downtown has a waiting area, ticket windows, parking space, cab service, and thousands of hotel rooms and family entertainment a short drive or walk away. Now all we need is a good platform.”
See the funding flyer
See images from the Amtrak stop in Biloxi
News and notes
Marathoners thank the mayor: In support of the Gulf Coast Marathon, organizers presented Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich with a signed and numbered print. To see images of the presentation that took place Tuesday afternoon, click here.
Christmas tree safety: Biloxi firefighters demonstrated the potential dangers of neglecting a decorated Christmas tree. To see images from the early morning demonstration, click here.
Business owner recognized: Council member Kenny Glavan presented a proclamation to Arbor Place in recognition as Ward 6 business of the month. To see images from the Tuesday afternoon presentation, click here.
