MS SC581

Welcomes Amtrak officials to the Mississippi Gulf Coast on February 18, 2016, for an "Inspection Train Tour" to evaluate railway infrastructure between New Orleans and Jacksonville, Florida, for potential passenger rail service restoration.

Identifies Pascagoula as the only scheduled Jackson County stop, with additional stops planned in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, and Biloxi to discuss economic development opportunities.

Notes that Gulf Coast passenger rail service was discontinued shortly before Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, and that an Amtrak study projects 153,900 annual riders if service extends from New Orleans to Orlando, Florida.

Recognizes the historical significance of train travel in American culture and its connection to Blues music development, highlighting a May 10, 2016, National Train Day performance by Muddy Waters' sons and Bobby Rush.

Directs transmission of the resolution to Amtrak President Joe Boardman, the Governor, Mississippi Department of Transportation, Mississippi Development Authority, and congressional delegation members.