LIRR reps address community concerns

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Legis. David Denenberg, D-Merrick, recently held a community meeting at the Wantagh Library to discuss community issues with the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

LIRR officials, including Robert Brennan, the director of government and community affairs, and Pat Gerakaris, the branch line manager for the South Nassau District, were on hand to answer questions.

Brennan spoke about the Wantagh station, which is in the current capital plan for improvements. Plans include a new platform, waiting room, escalator and elevator. When renovation is complete, the station will be similar to the Seaford station. Brennan said that ridership on the LIRR is comparable to the 1940s, which was the peak time. 

Gerakaris addressed quality of life issues with the LIRR. Power washing at the stations recently commenced, which is a seasonal program that will run through November.  There are four trucks that cover Nassau and Suffolk counties, and each station is washed twice per month. They clean the entire station, including sidewalks, platforms and walkways. 

Gerakaris said the harsh winter left a great deal of salt residue, and the power washing will address that. LIRR officials continue to combat the pigeon-dropping problem. Netting and spikes have been installed in the stations to deter the birds.

Commuters complained about the homeless loitering at the stations. The LIRR has a program called MTA Connections, which is an outreach program with the MTA police and social workers. 

Six months ago, the LIRR formed a partnership with the LI Coalition for the Homeless to not only keep the homeless out of the stations, but to offer services to them as well. Non-profits in Nassau and Suffolk Counties are providing mental health and substance abuse programs, shelter and other services. They are expecting to expand upon this program because it has been successful so far, LIRR reps said.