Rail Station Master Plan

In 2018, Build Baton Rouge received $450,000 in planning funds from the Federal Railroad Administration, matched by the City-Parish, to develop a master plan for two state-of-the-art passenger rail stations in Baton Rouge. The effort was part of the broader vision for the Baton Rouge to New Orleans intercity passenger rail corridor, a project championed by Governor John Bel Edwards and local governments throughout the region.

BBR selected local engineering and design firm HNTB to lead the planning process. Through community engagement, technical analysis, and coordination with regional and federal partners, the team developed a plan that aligns station siting and design with broader revitalization and mobility goals.

The Downtown Station, envisioned near Electric Depot, would connect directly to Government Street’s redevelopment and proposed transit improvements. The Suburban Station, located in the Baton Rouge Health District, would offer regional access for healthcare employees, patients, and residents across South Baton Rouge.

The proposed rail line would use existing, upgraded freight rail tracks and provide daily service between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, with stops in Gonzales, LaPlace, the New Orleans airport, and Union Passenger Terminal. The station designs reflect a focus on multimodal access, safety, and user comfort—positioning Baton Rouge to fully leverage the economic and social benefits of passenger rail once funding and service are secured.

Beyond buildings and infrastructure, every BBR project aims to create lasting impact. These benefits reflect how the project improves lives, supports neighborhood growth, and contributes to Baton Rouge’s long-term vitality.

Benefits:

• Positioned Baton Rouge for inclusion in the Baton Rouge–New Orleans rail corridor
• Delivered community-supported designs for downtown and suburban stations
• Strengthened the case for federal and state infrastructure investment
• Promoted transit-oriented development near station locations
• Created new opportunities for regional connectivity, job access, and economic growth
• Aligned transportation planning with urban revitalization goals

The Rail Station Master Plan lays the foundation for Baton Rouge to become a connected, transit-ready city. With well-planned station sites and strong community support, this work ensures Baton Rouge is ready to ride when intercity rail becomes a reality.