LIRR Ronkonkoma Double Track: Advancements in Railway Infrastructure

The LIRR’s Ronkonkoma Double Track project, now in its second phase, expands capacity and reduces delays on the line. Learn the benefits of this railway infrastructure upgrade.

LIRR Ronkonkoma Double Track: Advancements in Railway Infrastructure
March 29, 2017 6:30 pm
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Introduction

In December 2023, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) announced the completion of the second phase of the Ronkonkoma Double Track project, representing a significant advancement in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) efforts to enhance infrastructure and improve service reliability. The project, which spans 11.5 miles between Farmingdale and Ronkonkoma, aims to increase capacity and reduce delays on the Ronkonkoma Branch.

Project Overview

The Ronkonkoma Double Track project is a multi-phase initiative. The first phase, completed in 2018, extended the double track from Ronkonkoma to a point just east of the Deer Park station. Phase two, recently finished, extended the double track west to Farmingdale. This second phase involved the construction of 9 miles of new track, the installation of a new signal system, and the upgrade of several grade crossings. The total cost of the project is projected to be $387.2 million.

Key Infrastructure Improvements

The completed phase includes several key infrastructure improvements. These upgrades include the installation of 11.6 miles of new track, the upgrade of switches, and the modernization of the signal system. Five grade crossings were also upgraded. These enhancements are designed to improve operational efficiency and safety along the corridor. The project also included the construction of retaining walls and drainage improvements to ensure the long-term integrity of the track infrastructure.

Operational and Service Benefits

The completion of the Ronkonkoma Double Track project is expected to deliver significant operational and service benefits. The expanded double track allows for increased train frequency and greater flexibility in service, reducing delays caused by single-track operations. The project is projected to increase capacity on the Ronkonkoma Branch by approximately 40%. The enhancements are also intended to improve overall system reliability, reducing the impact of service disruptions.

Future Developments

Further developments on the LIRR are underway. The LIRR continues to focus on improving its infrastructure. The Waterloo track replacement project and other initiatives are part of a broader strategy to modernize the LIRR system. The MTA is also investing in other projects across the network to provide safe, reliable, and efficient service.

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Last August 2018, we published an article about the LIRR’s successful grade crossing safety initiative. Click here to read – LIRR’s Rail Crossing Safety: Waze Integration Insights

Conclusion

The completion of phase two of the Ronkonkoma Double Track project represents a substantial achievement for the LIRR. The project’s successful completion marks a step forward in the MTA’s efforts to improve the LIRR. The infrastructure upgrades are designed to enhance the efficiency, capacity, and reliability of the Ronkonkoma Branch.

Company Summary

Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): The LIRR is a commuter rail system in New York, the busiest commuter railroad in North America. It is owned by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA): The MTA is a public authority responsible for public transportation in the New York metropolitan area. It oversees the LIRR, as well as the New York City Subway, buses, and other transit services.

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