Adding a third track would greatly expand the capacity of the LIRR and allow it to run two tracks exclusively in the peak direction while using the third in the off-peak direction or for emergencies. “This would effectively double, and in some cases more than double, the number of trains able to run eastbound in the morning and westbound in the evening,” the report says. “The additional track will also improve reliability by enabling the railroad to maintain service in the peak direction even if one track is out of commission. The added efficiency could also improve productivity or reduce operating costs by enabling the LIRR to cycle trains in and out of service more quickly.”