Cuomo Announces Proposal to Invest $160 Million in LIRR Improvement Projects

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced a proposal to invest $160 million in projects across Long Island for 2017 during his State of the State address at Farmingdale State College on Tuesday.

The proposal includes $120 million to make improvements to 16 LIRR stations which includes a new stop at the Brookhaven National Laboratory as well as a new terminal at MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma.

"Enhanced LIRR stations will connect further than they ever have before, and these vital water infrastructure projects will support environmental sustainability and bolster economic growth," Cuomo said. "With these projects, we equip Long Island will the tools and resources to drive commercial activity, create jobs, and build a stronger Long Island for generations to come."

Out of the $160 million, the MTA will cover $35 million and $80 million will be invested in $5 million major enhancements at critical LIRR stations to improve the customer experience.

The station upgrades will include new facilities, Wi-Fi, charging stations, public art, new platform waiting areas, general station renovations and improved signage.

Each of these enhancements will be customized to the needs of each station and constructed with minimal disruptions, Cuomo said.

The 16 stations include:

Nassau County:

• Great Neck
• Bellmore
• Stewart Manor
• Valley Stream
• Baldwin
• Merrick
• Syosset
• Farmingdale

Suffolk County:

• Northport
• Stony Brook
• Port Jefferson
• Wyandanch
• Deer Park
• Brentwood
• Ronkonkoma
• East Hampton

A $20 million project will add a stop on the LIRR Ronkonkoma Branch at the center of Long Island’s innovation corridor at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

An additional $20 million will support the development of a new terminal at MacArthur Airport to provide direct service to the LIRR.

Watch Cuomo's entire speech in the video below.