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MTA announces major weekend service changes, train suspensions

Normal service on all branches resumes Monday morning at 4:30 a.m.

News 12 Staff

Jul 23, 2026, 12:29 PM

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The MTA is suggesting riders plan ahead if using the Long Island Rail Road this weekend as major service changes will be in effect.

It says there will be no weekend train service between Jamaica and Hicksville on the Port Jefferson and Ronkonkoma branches, and that buses are available to replace Hempstead and Oyster Bay service.

On Friday, trains on the Hempstead branch will stop running at 8 p.m., Oyster Bay branch trains will cease at 10 p.m. and Port Jefferson and Ronkonkoma branch trains will only run between Hicksville and points east starting 10 p.m.

This is due to ongoing summer-long switch and signal upgrade work near Elmont-UBS Arena. This weekend crews will be testing and commissioning a new signal system that the MTA says requires full suspension of train service.

The MTA advised commuters to use the Babylon, Montauk, West Hempstead or Port Washington branches if possible. The Babylon and Montauk branches will be on a modified schedule that includes added train service.

Normal service on all branches resumes Monday morning at 4:30 a.m.

As always, those riding the rails can check ahead of leaving for the most current information on the MTA's website.

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