LIRR to revamp stations in Hicksville, Queens

MTA Long Island Rail Road has launched nearly $186 million in improvement projects to stations in Hicksville and Queens, N.Y., New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced yesterday.

Crews have begun construction on a $121 million initiative to rebuild and modernize the 55-year-old Hicksville station, according to a press release issued by Cuomo's office.

Upgrades will include Wi-Fi service and USB charging stations, improved lighting, a translucent canopy roof and a video security system. LIRR also is preparing an adjacent site where it will build a new connection to an existing siding west of the Hicksville station.

In Queens, LIRR has awarded a $64.9 million contract to create a new platform and tracks at the Jamaica station, which serves as a central hub and main transfer point.

The new platform and tracks will allow LIRR to re-route trains more easily, take tracks out of service and support supplemental train service to and from Atlantic Terminal for customers attending games and events at the Barclays Center. The new platform will feature glass-enclosed heated waiting areas, as well as Wi-Fi service and USB charging stations.

"Revamping these two heavily trafficked transportation hubs will provide better, faster and more reliable train service for Long Island Rail Road riders," Cuomo said. "Time and time again, transportation investment has a ripple effect of progress and economic growth on the surrounding community."