LIRR To Hold Double Track Project Kickoff Today

After a long delay due to fiscal restrictions, the MTA Long Island Rail Road is moving "full steam ahead" with its Double Track Project, and they're holding a kickoff event at 11 a.m. today at the Ronkonkoma train station.

The Double Track from Ronkonkoma to Farmingdale, which includes the Deer Park station along the way, is expected to increase the frequency of commuter trains in and out of New York City, an initiative local leaders hope will boost economic development along those stations.

Among the leaders expected at this morning's kickoff is Sen. Charles Schumer, who will also be giving three tickets to Barack Obama's Presidential Inauguration to a Massapequa family displaced by Hurricane Sandy. Schumer supports the Double Track Project, citing its potential to "substantially reduce commuting times, facilitate the flow of workers in and out of Long Island and boost development in areas like East Farmingdale, Wyandanch and Ronkonkoma," according to a release.

Today's event signifies the start of the LIRR's environmental assessment phase of the project, whereby they'll study the impact of the second track on the surrounding area. The kickoff also opens the first of two "Double Track Information Centers," where commuters and curious residents can visit and get all the information they need about this undertaking.

The information center at Ronkonkoma will be open to visitors from today until Sunday, January 19. Click on the attached flyer in the photo gallery for a list of the available hours.