Commuter rail service across the Modern York metropolitan area experienced significant disruptions Tuesday following a major snowstorm, with the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) operating on a limited schedule and facing criticism over communication and service to Grand Central Terminal. Whereas most agencies aimed to resume service for the Tuesday morning commute, riders were warned to expect delays and exercise caution.
The LIRR began limited service at 4 a.m. Tuesday on the Ronkonkoma, Huntington, Babylon, Oyster Bay, Montauk, and Port Washington branches, running hourly or half-hourly services on some lines. However, service to and from Grand Central was suspended, prompting complaints from commuters. Charles D’Souza, of the commuter advocacy group Passengers United, expressed frustration with the situation, stating, “It’s outrageous. They spent billions and billions building Grand Central, and now in a snow storm, when we need it, we can’t employ it.” D’Souza also criticized the lack of clear communication regarding service restoration timelines.
The disruptions followed a snowstorm that blanketed the Tri-State Area, forcing commuter rails to temporarily suspend service. Crews worked to clear approximately 700 miles of tracks, utilizing specialized equipment like the LIRR’s “Darth Vader” plow train to remove snowdrifts reaching 25 inches. Despite these efforts, riders reported crowded conditions on shorter trains and significant delays. One commuter reported delays of 25 to 35 minutes, adding to the difficulties of traveling in freezing temperatures. Another rider noted a train passing their location without stopping, raising questions about service coordination.
NJ Transit and other commuter rails also resumed service Tuesday with modified schedules, urging passengers to check their apps for updates and allow extra travel time. MTA officials advised commuters to be cautious on stairs and platforms while boarding and exiting trains or buses. The storm marked the LIRR’s first full suspension of service in four years.
As of February 24, 2026, the New York City subway and bus system were operating, though some express trains were running local, and delays were possible. Alternate side parking regulations remained suspended until March 1.
