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Amtrak adds 60 seats to meet strong demand on its Mardi Gras Service .

Nearly 19,000 passengers have used the route since its August launch.

Gulf Coast cities report increased tourism and business from travelers.

The Southern Rail Commission says success could drive future rail expansion.

Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras Service between New Orleans and Mobile is off to a strong start, with trains selling out for major events and prompting the addition of more seats to meet rising demand.

Since launching in August, the route has carried nearly 19,000 passengers through September, averaging more than 105 customers per train, according to Amtrak. To accommodate growing ridership, the company recently added an extra train car, increasing capacity by 60 seats on trips to New

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