KCSR to hike train speed in Gulfport, Miss.

Kansas City Southern Railway Co. will increase train speed on 2.5 miles of track in Gulfport, Miss., starting Oct. 31, the railroad announced yesterday.

Speed will increase on track between Martin Luther King Street and Highway 90 from 10 mph to 20 mph. The higher speed is possible because of a major track rehabilitation effort that will help aid economic development in the region, KCSR officials said in a press release.

The railroad has partnered with Mississippi Operation Lifesaver in informing community members to be aware of the faster train speed. They urged motorists and pedestrians to stay off railroad rights of way and to "always expect a train" at any crossing.