A project to install a second track between Farmingdale and Ronkonkoma will start at least two years ahead of schedule.
The state Legislature last month included $138 million for the "double track" plan that will add a second line along 12.6 miles of single track.
It's part of the state funding for the MTA's five-year capital plan.
According to Newsday, Sen. Charles Fuschillo said he expects the railroad will be able to put the project out to bid as early as July. Fuschillo heads the Senate Transportation Committee.
The project would be completed in 2019.
LIRR officials say the second track will improve travel to and from MacArthur Airport and reduce the impact on riders when a train breaks down.
---
