Major LIRR Service Changes This Weekend: Commuters Urged to Plan Ahead

URGENT UPDATE: Significant service disruptions are underway this weekend on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), impacting commuters across multiple branches. These changes began early this morning and will last until 2:15 a.m. on Monday, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

For those traveling on the Port Jefferson Branch, service is fully suspended between Mineola and Huntington. To accommodate affected passengers, hourly shuttle buses are being deployed, making stops at Hicksville, Syosset, and Cold Spring Harbor. Additionally, LIRR service will not be available at Carle Place and Westbury, where commuters are advised to use the NICE n22, n24, or n35 buses. These buses will accept LIRR tickets at no extra charge.

Meanwhile, on the Ronkonkoma Branch, trains will run every two hours from Penn Station to Ronkonkoma, but will be rerouted via the south shore. This service change means that trains between the Jamaica and Farmingdale stations will change directions twice without making any station stops. Passengers are strongly encouraged to allow at least 50 minutes of extra travel time to reach their destinations.

Additionally, there will be no service at Bethpage. Commuters needing to travel from this area should catch a train at either the Farmingdale or Seaford LIRR stations.

These service alterations are being implemented as the MTA undertakes essential signal upgrade work in Hicksville. Commuters are reminded to check for updates on the MTA website as the situation develops.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and prepare for potential delays and changes to your travel plans.