LIRR commutes to New York City may soon take longer, as Amtrak says it needs to close tunnels in order to make Superstorm Sandy-related repairs.

In a press release, Amtrak says, "Chlorides and sulfates (from seawater) caused, and are continuing to cause, significant damage to key tunnel components such as track systems as well as the signal, electrical and mechanical systems."

The LIRR uses four East River tunnels. When the project begins, that will leave only three remaining tunnels. If a problem arises in one of the remaining tunnels, it could mean massive delays for commuters during rush hour.

Amtrak officials do not have a date for when the work will begin. They say it will take more than a year to design the project and coordinate a plan with the LIRR.