Amtrak Is Proving Highly Popular

 Popularity of the twice-daily Amtrak train route between Mobile and New Orleans has far exceeded expectations, with more than 46,000 riders since its August 18 launch and trains filling up along the Gulf Coast, AL.com reports. Amtrak said that, In its first 108 days, it is averaging more than 420 customers a day on round trips. The service had been expected to draw 71,000 riders in 12 months, but “we are well on-track to double the original estimate,” said Amtrak Board Chairman Anthony “Tony” Coscia. Ridership has grown each month, and 96% of riders report they were “extremely satisfied” with their trips. The line added an extra car to handle crowds traveling for New Orleans Saints games at the Caesars Superdome in September. The Superdome is within walking distance of Union Passenger Terminal.