Governor Kathy Hochul received a briefing from Metropolitan Transportation Authority leadership on May 16 following the announcement of a strike by five Long Island Rail Road labor unions. The meeting took place at MTA Headquarters and focused on the planned shutdown of LIRR service, ongoing labor negotiations, and preparations for shuttle bus service for essential employees.
The strike was called to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 16. The situation is significant as it affects transportation options for commuters and essential workers who rely on the Long Island Rail Road.
MTA leaders present at the briefing included Chair and CEO Janno Lieber, LIRR President Rob Free, Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara, Chief Policy and External Relations John J. McCarthy, and Senior Director of Government and Community Relations Lucile Songhai.
Officials discussed steps being taken to manage the orderly shutdown of train services while ensuring that alternative transportation is available where possible. Plans for shuttle bus service were highlighted as part of efforts to minimize disruption for essential employees during the strike period.
Photos documenting Governor Hochul’s briefing with MTA leadership are available on her official Flickr page. Further updates are expected as negotiations continue between union representatives and transit authorities.
