A Tribute to John Spain
Former Southern Rail Commissioner
The Southern Rail Commission expresses its deep gratitude for John Spain as he concludes his service as an SRC Commissioner. John is a leader whose service, vision, and unwavering commitment have shaped the modern trajectory of passenger rail across Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. As one of the longest-serving members of the Southern Rail Commission since 2014, John has not simply participated in the work of the SRC; he has defined it.
“John Spain has been the single greatest champion of passenger rail in the modern history of Louisiana. Bar none. When we finally get passenger rail across I-20 and between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, it will be because the SpainTrain is inevitable.”
From the beginning, he understood that rail progress requires more than technical plans; it requires champions. And he built them - Mayors, state DOT leadership, Governors, legislators, regional economic development organizations, and civic partners across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. His ability to convene, persuade, and inspire others created a durable coalition that continues to advance the important progress of expanding passenger rail across our member states and beyond.
“From my very first days in the Governor’s Office in 2016 to the very end of my second term in 2024, John Spain was a passionate, persistent and professional advocate for passenger rail in Louisiana. He was simply indefatigable. I greatly appreciate his service on the Southern Rail Commission and his efforts to keep me informed and involved. I also appreciate John’s friendship and his counsel a variety of other matters.”
Those who have worked alongside him know that his greatest strength isn’t his knowledge of policy or his ability to navigate complex partnerships, but his ability to bring people together and his tenacity in working towards a common vision. John has dedicated his career to making sure that passenger rail is a true economic development tool, a catalyst for tourism, a connector of communities, and a critical asset for emergency preparedness along the Coast. His vision has always extended beyond just tracks and trains.
In his early tenure, his leadership sparked the fire that gave the SRC new purpose, pushing the Commission to think boldly, act decisively, and - most memorably - “run a train.” That rallying cry became a mindset, a mission, and ultimately resulted in the launch of not only one of the most significant transportation milestones in the region’s recent history, but also Amtrak’s most successful new services in decades—Amtrak Mardi Gras Service.
“There are very few people you can point to and say, ‘This happened because of them.’ John Spain was one of those people. We worked together for years with a shared vision of restoring passenger rail across our region, and I truly believe that without John, the Southern Rail Commission would not be where it is today. He is a relentless advocate, an exceptional leader, and someone I am proud to call ‘friend.’ I will miss serving with him tremendously, but his legacy will continue on in the work of the Commission”
His accomplishments form a remarkable legacy:
Before joining the SRC, represented the Commission through his role at BRAF, shaping the work of the Louisiana Super Region Rail Authority, cultivating local champions and expanding the reach of rail advocacy
Proponent of rail studies, ensuring rigorous planning and credible analysis
Instrumental in supporting the 2014 Southeast Regional Convening in New Orleans, bringing together FRA and six states (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida) to strengthen regional coordination
Helped the SRC create an alliance of elected officials, civic leaders, and businesses to advance regional planning and economic integration
Supported national visibility efforts, including numerous trips to Washington DC meeting with Congress and Senate leaders and ensuring rail was a highlight of the 2015 Biden visit to New Orleans
Participated in the 2016 Gulf Coast Train Ride, demonstrating the viability and promise of restored service
Facilitated working relationship with the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to incorporate passenger rail in airport terminal planning
Since being appointed to the SRC in 2014, served as one of the Commission’s most steadfast and longest tenured members
Facilitated work with Louisiana communities—New Orleans, Gonzales, LaPlace, and the Baton Rouge Health District—to prepare for future stations
Secured joint support from Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership (formerly BRAC) and GNO Inc, elevating passenger rail as a shared regional policy priority
Led efforts to conduct the 2019 public poll measuring public support for New Orleans–Baton Rouge passenger rail
Helped organize and facilitate the Governor’s demonstration train ride in October 2023, a milestone moment for the state’s rail future
Across every initiative, he brought clarity of purpose, strategic discipline, and a deep belief that passenger rail is not merely a transportation option—it is an engine for economic growth, regional connection, and long-term resilience. He was the single most passionate and knowledgeable advocate for connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans with rail.
His retirement marks the close of an extraordinary chapter, but the tracks he laid—politically, institutionally, and literally—will guide the Southern Rail Commission for years to come. The momentum he created continues to carry forward, powering a vision that is now shared by leaders across the Gulf South. With gratitude, admiration, and respect, we celebrate and give sincere thanks to a commissioner whose legacy is built into the very future of rail in our region.
“John Spain understood that passenger rail is about more than transportation—it is about connecting people, strengthening local economies, expanding tourism and economic opportunity, and bringing communities closer together. His leadership on the Southern Rail Commission has left an enduring mark on our region, and all of us who believe in a more connected and prosperous Gulf South owe him a debt of gratitude. Thank you, John, for your extraordinary service and steadfast leadership.”