A crowd of several hundred officials, local leaders and Bay St. Louis citizens greeted an Amtrak inspection train at the town's historic depot on Tuesday morning to show support for resumption of rail passenger service along the Gulf Coast.
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The train had departed New Orleans earlier in the day, embarking on a two-day tour across the coast that will end in Jacksonville, Florida. Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant met the train in Bay St. Louis, joining those already aboard, including officials from Amtrak, members of the Southern Rail Commission, and leaders from communities hoping to see Amtrak service restored in the future.
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The Big Buzz
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Many decision-makers aboard the train took photos and videos of the cheering Bay St. Louis crowds, some of whom came dressed in costume to add to the festivities. The marching band from Bay High added to the celebratory mood.
Bay St. Louis mayor Les Fillingame greeted the officials and the governor and mayors from other coastal cities during the train's short stopover in the Bay. Hancock Tourism officials presented those aboard with gift bags filled with items from local artists and merchants.
Mayor Fillingame later thanked Bay St. Louis citizens who rallied to welcome the train.
"The overwhelming reception from such a huge turnout in Bay St Louis was the defining moment of the tour," said Fillingame. "It made the exact statement decision-makers needed to witness. If there is an ultimate, positive outcome, everyone who was there can take great pride in having been a significant part of the inspiration."
Mayor Les Fillingame toasts Mississippi Governor Phi Bryant during the town's show of support for restoration of passenger rail service
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