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New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo late last week released a draft environmental impact scoping report for a proposed expansion of MTA Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

The document outlines options for modifying grade crossings as part of the project, which calls for adding a third track along 9.8 miles of the railroad's Main Line between Floral Park and Hicksville. To ease local traffic congestion, construction work at the crossings would take place on an expedited timetable, with each project expected to wrap up in nine months or less, LIRR officials said in a press release.

"A third track on the main line is crucial to the future of Long Island," said Cuomo in the release. "This project will make the LIRR more reliable for millions of customers, while also eliminating multiple dangerous train crossings along the main line."

LIRR will hold four public hearings to give local residents, business owners and elected officials a chance to review the proposal. In addition, the MTA has launched a new website where the public can learn more about the project and provide direct input.

To date, there have been more than 80 meetings with local stakeholders.