Long Island Rail Road strike is over, New York Gov. Hochul says

The Long Island Rail Road strike has come to an end, as announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The strike, which began on Saturday at midnight, marked the first time in 32 years that the LIRR had experienced such a labor dispute. Thousands of commuters were affected by the strike, which stemmed from the failure to reach a new contract agreement between the union representing LIRR workers and the New York Metro Transit Authority (MTA).

Governor Hochul shared the news of the resolution in a statement on Monday night, declaring that a fair deal had been reached with the five LIRR unions. This deal includes salary increases for workers while also safeguarding the interests of riders and taxpayers. Hochul confirmed that phased LIRR service would resume starting at noon the following day.

MTA CEO Janno Lieber, speaking at a press conference alongside Governor Hochul and LIRR President Rob Free, confirmed that service would gradually resume on Tuesday, with full service expected to be in effect by the afternoon commute. This timeline ensures that commuters will have access to transportation for events such as the New York Knicks basketball game scheduled for Tuesday night.

Details of the agreement between the unions and the MTA have not been disclosed, pending ratification by the unions. However, Governor Hochul assured commuters that there would be no train fare increase to fund the new deal. Commuters were advised to check the LIRR app and website for updated train schedules as service ramps up. In the meantime, bus and shuttle services were available for the morning commute, as they were on Monday morning.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his gratitude for the resolution, emphasizing the importance of the LIRR and the workers who operate it. He reassured New Yorkers that City Hall and City agencies would continue to monitor traffic conditions, ensure commuter safety, and provide support to residents.

Negotiations between the unions and the MTA resumed on Sunday after the National Mediation Board intervened. The unions had initially demanded wage increases of 14.5% over four years, while MTA officials offered slightly lower increases and a lump-sum payment in the fourth year. Ultimately, a compromise was reached that aligned with contracts accepted by other transit workers in the region.

With the strike behind them, LIRR commuters can now look forward to a return to normalcy and reliable transportation services.