This is something that’s been talked about for a long time. Once Katrina happened, there was added urgency to the matter because of the possibility of doing good things for economic development.

It’s important that we are participating voluntarily with state and federal officials. The line along the Coast meets our needs and our customers’ needs. That line has been back in operation since Jan. 31.

We’re hopeful this property transaction will take place Monday. This is the first step in a lengthy process.

We rebuilt that line across the Gulf Coast as quickly as possible because it’s a critical artery for us. It serves our purposes. It meets our customers’ needs. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it.

We obviously think that it (the agreement) is an excellent outcome for all involved.

We expect to resume operations early Thursday evening. Amtrak service will resume after midnight.