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Strike halts Long Island Rail Road for first time in three decades
Nearly 3,500 workers walked off the job Saturday, crippling one of North America's busiest commuter lines and forcing thousands of New Yorkers to scramble for alternatives as Monday's rush hour looms.
Federal mediators step in after weekend deadlock
The National Mediation Board convened emergency talks Sunday night after unions and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) failed to bridge gaps on wages and work rules. The agency, which oversees rail and airline labor disputes, is pushing both sides to resume bargaining.
"Because of your solidarity and strength, your Long Island Rail Road Union Coalition is back at the bargaining table right now with MTA and LIRR management," the International Association of Machinists (IAM) Union said in a statement. "Your pressure is working."
MTA warns of 'severe congestion' as commuters urged to stay home
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber cautioned that no substitute service can replace the LIRR, which carries roughly 300,000 daily riders. The agency advised commuters to work remotely Monday, predicting "severe congestion and delays" across the city's transit network.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul echoed the plea, urging both sides to reach a deal before the workweek begins. "An extended shutdown would cause widespread disruption," she said.
Regional ripple effects: Sports, events hit by shutdown
The strike has already upended weekend plans. The New York Mets warned fans attending games at Citi Field in Queens to expect travel snarls, while event organizers across Long Island reported lower attendance.
Union leaders say the strike reflects frustration over stagnant wages and deteriorating conditions after years without raises. MTA officials counter that a generous settlement would "implode" the agency's budget.
Timeline: From 1994's brief stoppage to today's standoff
The last LIRR strike lasted two days in 1994. This walkout marks the first in 30 years, underscoring the depth of the current impasse.
Federal mediators remain at the table, but no timeline has been set for a resolution. Commuters are advised to check real-time updates as the situation evolves.
