NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The Long Island Rail Road is celebrating what Gov. Kathy Hochul calls the "strongest year to date."
Preliminary ridership statistics indicate an increase of nearly 16 percent in 2024, with ridership reaching 75.5 million compared to 65.2 million in 2023, according to the MTA.
The LIRR not only experienced an increase in ridership but also achieved an on-time performance record of 95.65%. In November, it reached an on-time performance rate of 96.2%, the highest level recorded for that month since tracking began in 1979.
“New Yorkers deserve fast and reliable train service wherever they’re headed, and the LIRR delivered to our commuters in 2024 with its strongest year to date,” Governor Hochul said. “I am committed to keeping New York moving and continuing to build on these performances, as we look forward to projects that will modernize our railroads, reduce travel time, and expand train service for riders.”
Officials point to schedule revisions and recent investments in infrastructure, including the opening of LIRR's newest terminal, Grand Central Madison, and the construction of the Main Line Third Track as catalysts for the record-breaking year.
The MTA has outlined additional investments in infrastructure for the LIRR in the 2025-2029 Capital Plan.
According to assessments done by the agency, 75 LIRR bridges, 7 viaducts, and 3 tunnels are at a critical point of deterioration.
The agency has allocated a $9 billion budget to repair critical structures to the subways and trains, including painting and waterproofing LIRR bridges. The funding will also be utilized to repair or replace deteriorated structures in major segments of the Atlantic Avenue Tunnel.
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.
English (US) ·