Babylon LIRR station hits major milestone in $125M renovation
After being closed for eight months, the western half of the platform has officially reopened to the public, marking a key milestone in the massive infrastructure upgrade.
The Babylon Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station is in the midst of a $125 million renovation project aimed at modernizing the aging facility. Built in 1964, the station has long shown signs of wear and tear, with cracking concrete and rusting steel dotting much of the platform. Now, that is beginning to change.
After being closed for eight months, the western half of the platform has officially reopened to the public, marking a key milestone in the massive infrastructure upgrade. News 12 was granted an exclusive tour of the progress, led by MTA officials.
“We understand construction is invasive, but it’s necessary,” said Anthony Tufano, of MTA Construction & Development. “We’re doing everything we can to keep our customers happy and keep the railroad running.”
The overhaul includes a wide range of improvements designed to enhance both safety and rider experience. New ADA-compliant elevators are being installed, and the station will soon feature a modernized platform with upgraded lighting, digital information screens and canopies for weather protection. Notably, the station will also be equipped with an automated system to melt ice and snow during winter storms.
Despite the complexity of the project, train service has remained uninterrupted.
“The idea of what we’re doing here is constructing the job while keeping service at all times at the station,” said Steven Leidner of MTA Construction & Development. “Not reducing the service — keeping the same level of service for the station.”
With roughly 5,000 passengers passing through each day, maintaining that level of access has been no small feat. Construction has been ongoing seven days a week to ensure progress stays on track.
The eastern half of the platform, which remains in its original condition, will close this September for its portion of the renovation. Work on that side is also expected to take about eight months.
