‘Traffic Is Going To Be Horrible.’ Commuters scramble for backup plans ahead of LIRR strike
Riders at the Mineola station told News 12 they are already preparing for major disruptions if service shuts down Saturday morning.
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As a possible Long Island Rail Road strike looms just hours away, many commuters say the MTA’s contingency plan still leaves them with few realistic options.
Riders at the Mineola station told News 12 they are already preparing for major disruptions if service shuts down Saturday morning. Some commuters say the MTA’s backup transportation plan does not fit their schedules or locations, forcing them to come up with alternate plans of their own.
The MTA’s contingency plan includes shuttle bus service at six Long Island stations and encouragement for commuters to work remotely when possible.
However, many riders say working from home is not an option for them, and others say the shuttle buses only running during peak hours creates additional challenges.
“The traffic is going to be horrible, so my plan is to get up super, super early in the morning to try to make it to school for 8 a.m.,” Tristan Sipley, of Glen Head said.
When asked what time he planned to leave, Sipley responded, “Maybe 5 a.m.?”
Commuters say they are bracing for heavy traffic, longer travel times and crowded alternate transit options if the strike moves forward.
