UPDATE: Urgent service disruptions are in effect for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) this weekend, impacting commuters across key branches. Starting early Saturday, October 7, 2023, and lasting until 2:15 a.m. on Monday, October 9, significant changes are affecting the Port Jefferson and Ronkonkoma lines.
Passengers on the Port Jefferson Branch will face suspended service between Mineola and Huntington, with hourly shuttle buses available to bridge the gap. These shuttles will make stops at Hicksville, Syosset, and Cold Spring Harbor for convenience. Notably, there will be no LIRR service at Carle Place and Westbury. The MTA recommends using the NICE buses n22, n24, or n35, which will accept LIRR tickets at no extra charge.
On the Ronkonkoma line, service will be significantly altered as trains run only every two hours between Penn Station and Ronkonkoma, rerouted via the south shore. Commuters should note that between the Jamaica and Farmingdale stations, trains will change direction but will not stop, creating potential delays.
Passengers are urged to allow for at least 50 minutes of extra travel time to reach their destinations. Additionally, there will be no service at Bethpage, with alternative travel options available at the Farmingdale and Seaford LIRR stations.
According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, these service changes are necessary to accommodate ongoing signal upgrade work in Hicksville. Commuters are encouraged to visit the MTA website for the latest updates and adjustments to the schedule.
As these disruptions unfold, commuters should remain alert and plan accordingly to navigate the changes effectively. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
