Officials, residents relieved LIRR strike is averted

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“[A] strike … would have caused serious harm to our economy and gridlock across Long Island,” State Sen. Jack Martins (R-Mineola) said. “Importantly, all sides have promised that this contract will not increase fares for already overburdened LIRR riders. We’ve been urging Governor Cuomo to get personally involved to try and help the MTA and workers bridge the gap. I thank him for listening, and applaud his efforts to bring all sides together to reach an agreement.

Franklin Square resident Danielle Berardi, who rides the LIRR daily from either the New Hyde Park or Stewart Manor train stations, said, “Hallelujah. I’m very happy they came to an agreement, and I’m glad Cuomo was able to help.” Berardi added that she was thankful that she did not have to devise a commuting plan for her staff.

“I commend Governor Cuomo for averting a Long Island Rail Road strike, protecting our commuters and safeguarding our economy,” said Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano. “The MTA’s long-term financial stability is critical, and so is the vital transportation route they provide to Long Island commuters.”

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli issued a statement last Thursday afternoon: “The New Yorkers who ride the LIRR are vital to our regional economy, and it would have been another economic setback for the region if the LIRR had come to a grinding halt. I commend the MTA, the LIRR unions and Governor Cuomo for steering negotiations to an agreement.”

Franklin Square/Elmont Editor Vikas Girdhar contributed to this story.

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