LIRR Main Line Expansion

This transformative $2.6 billion project goes beyond constructing a much-needed third track to enable more robust and reliable rail service.

The LIRR’s Main Line is the central artery of the commuter rail system in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. The 9.8-mile section of the Main Line between Floral Park and Hicksville services the Hempstead, Ronkonkoma, Oyster Bay, and Port Jefferson Branches, as well as some Montauk Branch trains. But bottlenecks on this portion of the line have for decades led to delays across the entire LIRR system.

The project includes the elimination of eight street-level grade crossings, modifications to seven rail bridges, installation of sound and retaining walls throughout the corridor to reduce train noise, ADA improvements and enhanced stations, new substations, new parking facilities, landscaping, and more.

This results in reduced train congestion and delays, true bi-directional service during peak hours, and a more reliable rail network. It will improve commutes and safety for over 300,000 daily riders LIRR system-wide. The project will make living and working on Long Island easier, ensuring the region’s economic prosperity now and for the next century.

• October 3, 2022: ICYMI: All Aboard: Governor Hochul Celebrates Completion of LIRR Main Line Third Track On Time and Under Budget
• August 15, 2022: ICYMI: Governor Hochul Joins MTA Chair for Ceremonial First Ride on LIRR's New Third Track
• August 1, 2022: MTA Reopens Denton Avenue to Vehicular Traffic Following Bridge Replacement
• June 15, 2022: MTA Long Island Rail Road Announces Upgraded New Hyde Park Station as Part of Third Track Project
• May 9, 2022: MTA Celebrates Grand Opening of Commuter Parking Garage at LIRR Mineola Station
• May 2, 2022: MTA Completes Replacement of Denton Ave Bridge in Garden City
• October 28, 2021: MTA Completes Replacement of LIRR New Cassel Substation
• October 19, 2021: Crews to Perform Switch Work as Part of LIRR Main Line Expansion Project and Lay Steel Girders for Future Elmont Station
• September 3, 2021: ICYMI: Governor Hochul Announces Long Island Rail Road Reopens Willis Avenue in Mineola, Completing All of the LIRR Expansion Project's Eight Railroad Crossing Eliminations
• August 9, 2021: Celebrating Latest LIRR Expansion Project Milestone, MTA Opens 683-Space Garage for LIRR Customers in Westbury
• June 16, 2021: MTA Announces Opening of Three New Elevators at LIRR Floral Park Station