Amidst widespread dysfunction and commuter issues with the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and new Grand Central Madison service, Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) is calling on LIRR leadership and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber to immediately resolve the issues. The LIRR recently admitted that they miscalculated the demand for the new Grand Central Madison service, but many Long Island residents are still experiencing an onerous commute.

“I’ve heard from countless constituents that the interruptions and cuts in service, lack of route postings and overcrowding have become unbearable,” Brown said. “The LIRR has pledged to resolve these issues in the coming weeks but I, along with my constituents, will believe it when I see it. I am calling on MTA CEO Lieber to address the following issues immediately.”

• Diminished express train service. 
• Massive overcrowding on the platforms and trains, especially in Long Beach.
• Limited or no postings at train stations regarding service changes.
• No direction for residents seeking an alternate route due to a service change.
• Conductors, as well as people working at Jamaica Station, refusing to give direction, saying that it’s not their job.
• No service directly to Brooklyn. 

Brown, along with his Assembly Minority colleagues representing Long Island, has written to Gov. Hochul requesting a meeting on, among other issues, the MTA tax proposal.

“To make matters worse, the governor has pledged $3 billion to the MTA in this year’s budget and a new tax on commuters – unacceptable actions given the horrendous service we are experiencing. Residents rely on these trains running smoothly and efficiently. People are missing work, fighting for seats on trains and being told off by conductors when they ask for directions – a blatant embarrassment that must be resolved immediately.’