LIRR strike threat raises backup commute concerns

The LIRR strike threat is becoming more immediate for roughly 300,000 daily riders. Long Island Rail Road workers could walk off the job. It would be the railroad’s first strike in 32 years. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The MTA has outlined contingency travel options for riders if a strike takes place. Still, those alternatives may not work for every rider. The LIRR is the country’s largest commuter rail system.

Buses would take customers to the “A” subway train from Hempstead, Hicksville, or Mineola. Other buses would take riders to the “F” train from Huntington and Ronkonkoma.

Meanwhile, the backup plan centers on subway connections from several Long Island points. Rider advocates have also suggested separate ideas.

Some rider advocates say the plan should go further. For example, they have suggested “Park and Ride” service at Babylon. In addition, they have suggested expanded access for communities on Long Island’s southern shore. The MTA said it will consider those proposals. The strike deadline is May 16.

MTA contingency plans for LIRR riders

The agency said the best alternative would be for passengers to work from home. Also, monthly ticket holders would receive refunds.

“I’d have to take my car in which I am not happy about,” commuter Thomas Kear said. He said both sides should reach an agreement. That, he added, was the best way to avoid difficult travel conditions. “They’re gonna raise fares anyway so give the conductors and workers a decent wage.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul addressed the strike threat on Monday. Afterward, a union spokesman said the railroad and five unions had resumed contract talks. At the same time, some rider advocates described the situation as untenable. They also hoped renewed talks could still lead to a deal.

Contract talks continue before May 16 deadline

Union members held a rally Saturday in Massapequa. There, they said they were prepared to carry out the strike threat. They said they would do so if no contract agreement is reached. That would be the first railroad strike in more than three decades.

As recently as Friday, the MTA and the unions gave different accounts of the talks. MTA Chair Janno Liber said both sides were “closer, although we’re not there yet,” while the union said they were “no closer to a settlement.”

Talks involve the MTA and five unions. If they are not successful, workers will walk off the job on May 16.

Five unions representing LIRR engineers have already authorized a strike. The unions are seeking a 5% raise in the fourth year of a contract. The MTA, which controls the railroad, has offered 3% for three years.

A strike would be the first LIRR walkout in 32 years.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: