New Baton Rouge Train Launches After Amtrak Cuts
BATON ROUGE, La. — Pelican Rail will launch its new daily passenger train service connecting New Orleans and Baton Rouge this week, officials announced Monday. The new route provides the first direct rail link to the state capital in decades, with introductory fares starting at $40.
This launch follows Amtrak’s recent decision to halt plans for two daily round trips on the same corridor. Those trips were suspended indefinitely last month after negotiations for state and local funding stalled.
The new service, operated by the private rail line Pelican Rail, will begin limited service on Friday, Oct. 31. The company plans to offer three daily round trips, with a targeted journey time of under 90 minutes.
“We see a clear and immediate demand for reliable service between Louisiana’s largest city and its state capital,” said Pelican Rail spokesperson Amanda Shaw. “We are stepping in to fill that gap with a fast, modern, and competitive option for travelers and commuters.”
Amtrak’s proposed service was part of a broader federal Gulf Coast rail expansion. The “two trips” that were axed—a planned morning and evening service—were considered critical for creating a commuter-friendly schedule.
Why This New Route Matters
The introduction of a private rail line on this corridor is significant for U.S. transportation. It represents a major test of whether private operators can successfully fill service gaps left by Amtrak, particularly on dense, sub-200-mile routes dominated by auto traffic.
For travelers, the new line provides a much-anticipated alternative to the heavily congested I-10 corridor. The $40 starting fare is priced to compete directly with the cost of driving and parking.
What’s Next for the Route
Tickets for the new service are available for booking online starting today. Pelican Rail officials stated that schedules will be monitored closely in the first few weeks, with the potential to add more trips based on passenger demand.
The company is operating from a temporary station in Baton Rouge, with plans for a permanent downtown terminal pending city approval.
Yes, a new private company named Pelican Rail is launching daily passenger train service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, beginning the last week of October 2025.
Introductory fares for the new Pelican Rail service start at $40 one-way.
Amtrak suspended its plans for two daily round trips to Baton Rouge after required state and local funding agreements were not finalized.