Safety Measures To Be Installed At Syosset Station

Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R-Syosset), James Dermody, President of the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and Ray Kenny, Senior Vice President of Operations for LIRR announced the implementation of safety measures at Syosset Railroad Station.
After the tragic death of 18 year old Natalie Smead at the Woodside train station, gap-related accidents have been brought to the forefront of our attention.
The Syosset Station has proven to be one of the most problematic because of the large curved platform. To immediately address the safety concerns the LIRR Railroad will install closed circuit television monitors that will allow the conductor to view both ends of the platform. Such monitors will equip conductors with the knowledge they need to make quick decisions; assuring the safety of passengers.
"The safety of the ridership is the main concern and although everyone is aware of the use of cameras for security, their use in train stations may not be as well known. Cameras and monitors are put in place to help conductors see that passengers have safely boarded or disembarked from the train," said Senator Marcellino.
The cost of the monitoring system at the Syosset Station will be approximately 1 million to 1.5 million dollars and will be paid for by a state grant secured by Senator Marcellino.
The LIRR will also be making announcements at the stops to remind riders to "Watch The Gap."
"These are steps we can take now while we investigate and review all of the platform gaps and seek a corrective solution," said Senator Marcellino

Senator Marcellino has also joined Senator Dean Skelos in calling for a broader view of protecting the public when they ride the rails, developing a strategy for all stations and focusing resources in keeping the public safe in high risk areas.

"We cannot wait for another tragic accident to do something about this problem. I pledge to do all I can so that another senseless death is prevented," said Senator Marcellino