We will seek to expand local use of Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) stations
For some neighborhoods in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens, commuter rail is the best transit option. But local service at many of these stations is infrequent, and commuter rail costs even more even than express buses-especially if a transit transfer is necessary. Of the 33 commuter stations in the city, 15 do not have rush-hour service frequencies comparable to local stations in suburban counties. (See map above: Commuter Rail Service)

Capacity constraints drive some of this shortage; in some cases, expanding service will only be feasible after new projects such as East Side Access are complete. At others, higher ridership can come from improved connection from local buses. We will seek to work with the MTA to identify innovative ways that commuter rail service can serve Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx.

Progress (as of 4/22/08):
In its 2008-2013 capital program, the MTA allocated $150 million to redesign the track and switch layout at Jamaica to facilitate new service into Grand Central as well as provide new cross-borough service between Flatbush Avenue and Jamaica. The MTA will be able to establish service exclusively for Brooklyn and Queens customers.