As LIRR strike looms, Hochul warns Long Islanders they may have to stay home
Gothamist • • business
Key Points:
- Gov. Kathy Hochul urged Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) commuters to work from home if a strike shuts down train service, as five unions representing most LIRR workers remain deadlocked with the MTA over pay and work rules.
- The MTA plans to run limited shuttle buses from key LIRR stations to subway lines, but Hochul emphasized these buses cannot handle the LIRR’s usual 270,000 daily riders.
- A prolonged strike could cause severe traffic gridlock on Long Island, as the LIRR is the busiest commuter railroad in the U.S. and essential for nearly 3 million residents in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
- Union representatives stated they seek an agreement addressing inflation and the high cost of living, while the MTA warned fulfilling all union demands could lead to an 8% fare increase, job cuts, and reduced service.
- Hochul expressed opposition to fare hikes or higher taxes to resolve the dispute, encouraging early planning for remote work to minimize commuter disruption.