Senator Phillips Statement on LIRR Fare Reduction Announcement

“After spending the last seven weeks fighting for a LIRR fare reduction because of the nightmarish conditions at Penn Station, I am glad to see that the MTA is lowering some LIRR ticket prices for the duration of the Penn Station rehabilitation project.

While I believe the MTA should have gone further and reduced fares for all Long Island commuters, this is nevertheless a positive step that will compensate riders for having to use alternative routes into New York City instead of Penn Station.   

As a former commuter, I completely understand and agree with commuters’ frustration and anger at the impact current conditions are having on LIRR service.  The MTA’s actions will make the ‘summer of hell’ a little easier to bear for riders.  I encourage the MTA to continue working to provide all LIRR riders with the fare relief, conditions and service they need and deserve.”