MTA announces contingency plans, including shuttle bus service, ahead of potential LIRR strike
NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Metropolitan Transportation Authority on Thursday announced its contingency plans for commuters as the clock ticks towards a looming Long Island Rail Road strike next Thursday.
In the event of a strike, the MTA plans to provide limited shuttle bus service to LIRR commuters every 10 minutes during weekday peak hours.
The service will be for essential workers who need to commute into the city in the morning, running into Manhattan from 4:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., and to Long Island from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Shuttle buses will take passengers from the following LIRR stations to subway station transfer points in Queens:
- Bellmore Station (LIRR) to Howard Beach-JFK Airport (A)
- Hicksville Station (LIRR) to Mets-Willets Pt (7)
- Ronkonkoma Station (LIRR) to Mets-Willets Pt (7)
The MTA says it intends to issue prorated refunds to September LIRR monthly ticket holders for every business day that service is suspended by the strike, pending board approval.
Meanwhile, Nassau County commuters should consider taking NICE buses to connect with the No. 7 subway line and the Jamaica Bus Terminal in Queens as travel alternatives. Drivers can also drive into Queens and take the subway lines they need, although anticipate increased congestion on the roads.
The contingency plans come as the transit agency prepares for a strike that would impact nearly 300,000 riders. If a strike were to go into effect next Thursday, the MTA says LIRR service would be forced to shut down entirely.
"It's impossible to replace full service, but we're doing the best we can to preserve access to transit for LIRR customers," said MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara during a Thursday afternoon press conference at New York Penn Station. "Should there be a strike, we encourage riders to work from home if it's at all possible."
As both sides continue to deliberate, the Long Island Rail Road Bargaining Coalition penned a letter to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul calling on her to help with negotiations.
"Our unions have worked hard to narrow the gap in this round of negotiations. We are not that far apart but the time for games is over. The LIRR passengers deserve the assurance of dependable service without disruption. Our members deserve a fair contract. Governor Hochul can help deliver both," said TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea.
ALSO READ: Gov. Hochul weighs in on potential LIRR strike, blames White House
You can read more information about the looming strike and alternative travel options on the MTA website.
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