LIRR to perform PTC, rail safety tests on Montauk Branch

MTA Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) this week will conduct positive train control (PTC) testing and other routine rail safety tests on the Montauk Branch during off-peak hours.

The tests will take place again Oct. 29 and Nov. 2. A self-propelled Sperry Rail Car fitted with ultrasonic and induction test equipment will perform some of the rail safety tests. The car is designed to detect internal defects inside running rails that aren't readily visible.

Defects that are found will be corrected immediately by LIRR maintenance workers, LIRR officials said in a press release.

To facilitate the testing, LIRR will provide substitute buses for some off-peak morning and afternoon service between the Montauk and Babylon stations.