LIRR to test upgraded signal system for East Side Access project

MTA Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) this month will test a new signal system as part of its East Side Access project to connect to Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

The tests will be performed at the Harold Interlocking in Queens, New York. Based on microprocessor technology with built-in redundancies, the new system is designed to ensure smooth and improved train service through the interlocking, LIRR officials said in a press release.

The system will replace an older hard-wired, relay-based signal system. The testing will take place April 6-9 and April 13-15, LIRR officials said in a press release.

The busiest rail interlocking in the United States, the Harold Interlocking also serves as a vital link in Amtrak's Northeast Corridor service between Boston and New York City.

The $10.1 billion East Side Access project will provide LIRR service to Manhattan's east side via a new eight-track terminal and concourse below Grand Central.

Meanwhile, LIRR this month will perform critical tests for positive train control on the Port Washington Branch. The tests will take place between the Woodside and Bayside stations.

At the same time, LIRR crews will replace ties at the Reynold's Channel Bridge on the Long Beach Branch.