New LIRR Train Schedules Go into Effect on Monday, March 7
Babylon, Montauk, West Hempstead Branches
One of two tracks will be taken out of service to accommodate installation of new concrete ties between Rockville Centre and Valley Stream. This work will result in major changes for South Shore travelers on the weekends of March 12-13 and March 19-20 when we will also be installing continuous welded rail in our major train switching area (Interlocking) at Valley Stream. Babylon Branch train service will be reduced from half hourly to hourly on those weekends, buses will replace West Hempstead Branch trains and some Montauk Branch trains will operate on adjusted schedules. Look for special Saturday/Sunday schedules describing the changes and expect up to 30 minutes of extra travel time on those weekends.
Far Rockaway, Hempstead and Long Beach Branches
Continuing reconstruction work on the 150th St. Bridge in Jamaica, will require one of two tracks between Jamaica Station and Valley Stream to be taken out of service during midday hours on weekdays. The work will mean changes to departure times for some eastbound trains to Far Rockaway, some eastbound trains to Hempstead and Long Beach Branch trains traveling in both directions.
Port Jefferson Branch
Completion of weekday tie-installation work means restoration of midday-off peak schedules on the Port Jefferson Branch. Departure times for midday trains had been altered in November 2015 to accommodate the work.
Ongoing Construction Projects
The schedule changes also support continuing infrastructure renewal projects including East Side Access work in Harold Interlocking, the upcoming rehabilitation of Wantagh Station, the West Side Yard Overbuild Project, the Jamaica Capacity Improvement Project and Vanderbilt Yard construction in Brooklyn.
