For the first time in three decades, Long Island Rail Road workers could strike in just weeks, which would shut down all train service. The MTA is already getting buses ready.
The LIRR system is the largest commuter rail network in the nation. 300,000 people a day depend on the trains from Long Island to New York City and back. The two sides have about two weeks to work things out.
When NBC New York asked one commuter how worried they are about a strike, the rider replied, “50-50.”
That commuter is among those aboard the trains who are uncertain where things will go. Top union officials on Wednesday, during public comment at the MTA Board meeting, challenged LIRR bosses to get to the bargaining table.
“We are ready to settle this today,” Gilman Lang with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers told board members. “The only thing preventing that is the MTA’s failure to act. The clock is ticking.”
But MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber pushed back, telling union leaders, “The suggestion the MTA is not willing to negotiate is nonsense. So let’s get this going right here today,” he said. The verbal showdown led to some discussion, but no deal.
Lieber later told reporters, “I called B.S. on that, because we do wanna meet with them.”
Five unions representing LIRR engineers have authorized a strike, starting May 16. The unions want a 5% raise in the 4th year of a contract. The MTA, which controls the railroad, is offering 3% for 3 years.
A strike would be the first LIRR walkout in 32 years.
If there’s a walkout next month, the contingency plan includes customers taking a bus to the “A” subway train from Hempstead, Hicksville, or Mineola, or a bus to the “F” train from Huntington and Ronkonkoma.
“That’s garbage,” another rider told News 4. “Who wants to ride from Mineola to the city on a bus?”
(Image: NBC New York
That commuter is among those dreading the possibility.
“You’ll be stuck on the expressway at every stop. It’ll take three hours to get home,” another commuter added.
Some riders’ advocates say it’s an untenable situation. And they’re hoping now that the two sides are seemingly talking again, a deal could still happen.
“The good news is the conversation has started,” said Lisa Daglian of the Long Island Riders Council. “The bad news is there is a potential for a strike.”
Some riders’ advocates would like to see a much more robust contingency plan. For example, “Park and Ride” at Babylon and more access on the southern shore of Long Island. The MTA says it will take ideas under advisement, with the strike deadline set for May 16.
