Senator Phillips Delivers $5 Million For New Port Washington LIRR Canopies

Replacing Crumbling, Leaky Structures to Shelter Platforms; Create Warm Welcome for Commuters and Visitors

Senator Elaine Phillips today announced that she has secured $5 million to replace the mismatched, crumbling and leaky canopies at the LIRR’s Port Washington station with new, modern fixtures that keep the platforms drier and safer and create a warm welcome for commuters and visitors.

“Replacing the outdated and crumbling canopies on one of the LIRR’s busiest stations has been on the MTA’s drawing board for years, but funding has never been available—until now,” Senator Phillips said.

“This funding will enhance the comfort and experience for thousands of daily commuters and improve their safety by keeping ice and water from collecting on the platforms,” Senator Phillips said. “As the LIRR prepares to welcome more riders on the Port Washington branch when East Side Access is finally completed, the new canopies will enhance the station’s appearance and create a warm welcome to our community for residents and visitors alike.”

Funding for the new canopies, improved lighting and signage, is being made available from transit capital funding controlled by the Senate.

The LIRR has proposed replacing the nearly half century-old canopies, currently green and white colored, since at least 2014, and included the project in its most recent five-year construction plan, but without necessary funding to get the project done.

Senator Phillips said she will urge the LIRR to consult with commuters on the new canopy design, as well as other station improvements.

A regular commuter on the Port Washington branch for over a decade when she worked in Lower Manhattan, Senator Phillips has been a leading advocate for LIRR commuters, including demanding more accountability and a fare freeze until the railroad improves service for riders.

The Port Washington station serves over 8,000 riders a day.

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