VIDEO: LIRR's 'Darth Vader' Snow-Clearing Train Readies Tracks As Regular Service Begins Again Wednesday

LONG ISLAND, NY — After a blizzard that slammed Long Island with more than 30 inches of snow and wind gusts of more than 80 miles per hour in certain areas — as well as shutting down the Long Island Rail Road — the Metropolitan Transit Authority announced Tuesday that regular weekday service will begin Wednesday with the morning commute.

There are some modifications, the MTA said:

For Wednesday morning: The LIRR will run regular service beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday morning Feb. 25, however customers can expect to see some schedule adjustments due to lingering effects of the historic blizzard, in places. Trains will provide service to all three New York City terminals.

LIRR crews continue to work around the clock to clear large snow drifts from 700 miles of track and multiple train yards where equipment is stored. Personnel remain deployed throughout the operating region spreading salt and clearing surfaces of snow, keeping signals, switches, and third rails operating, and attending to any weather-related challenges.

Ways to Stay Informed

mta.info – The definitive source for real-time arrival information and service change information for each line or route in the MTA system. Customers can find current statuses on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts.

MTA app – Customers who use the comprehensive MTA smartphone app will see real-time train, bus and rail arrival times, and can chat with our customer care team all in one place. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play.

TrainTime app – The MTA’s TrainTime app is to be used for navigating the commuter rail system. Customers can plan their trip, purchase tickets, check train status, and chat with customer service, all in one app. The app is available in the Apple Store and Google Play.

(Video courtesy MTA Long Island Rail Road)