Residents and commuters along
the Main Line corridor have long sought a mass transit solution to
reduce road congestion, improve safety and provide an appealing
alternative to driving – all with minimal disruption to existing train
services and without residential property
takings.
The construction of a third track from Floral Park to
Hicksville will reduce train congestion and delays and enable true
bi-directional service during peak hours with
a more reliable rail network. This
transformative work includes several related projects, including the
construction of up to five parking garages, retaining walls,
improvements to rail bridges and the removal of seven street-level
grade crossings.
Construction will be
handled in a way to minimize the impact on daily routines, with
extensive mitigation and public outreach efforts being planned in
conjunction with local communities.
Construction Updates
Beginning
in January 2018, the contractor completed design, surveying,
mobilization, utility relocations, and other early construction
activities. Ongoing community outreach efforts
will also be included in this phase, such as
developing clear communications protocols, opening a public information
office, continuing coordination with local elected officials, and
soliciting input on the aesthetics of components
such as stations and sound walls. Substantial
construction is expected to begin in late 2018. The overall project is
expected to be completed by late 2022.
In September 2018,
Governor Cuomo led ground breaking
efforts for the expansion project at Urban
Avenue in Westbury, the first of seven street-level grade crossings to
be eliminated, and one of 50 projects included in the modernization
effort. The Governor was joined by senior officials
from the MTA and LIRR as well as Nassau and
Suffolk County Executives. Other work to begin this fall 2018 includes
station renovation, bridge modification and new parking facility
construction.
(Courtesy of MTA)