In 2007, the LIRR faced heavy criticism for a similar program, when residents living close to the tracks of the Babylon line complained that they were not notified ahead of time that work would be starting, and that the lack of trees created an eyesore and noise problems.

MTA spokesman Sal Arena said that the LIRR notified public officials and civic groups in the affected areas, and also mailed out 300 fliers to homeowners and residents along the route, from Lynbrook to Long Beach, detailing the work that would be done and providing a contact number for questions or complaints.

“We do our best not to expose homeowners who like to have the bushes between them and the [tracks], but safety is the primary goal,” Arena explained. “The more we clear, the less problems we have, safety-wise. Not everyone is happy when it’s done. But the tradeoff is that we’re putting a lot of money into making sure the Long Beach branch is more resilient.”

Added LIRR President Helena Williams, “We want to make sure that customers along the Long Beach branch are fully aware of our work plan in the weeks and months ahead, as we dedicate ourselves to making sure that we are fully prepared and protected when the next big storm reaches our shore.”

During Sandy, Long Beach was the most seriously affected of the LIRR’s 11 branches. Three of the four substations went offline, third-rail power was lost, the tracks between Island Park and Long Beach were covered with debris and saltwater knocked out switch, signal and communications systems. Partial service was restored 16 days after the storm, and full electrical service was restored 11 days later.

Even as emergency repairs were underway, the LIRR was developing Sandy restoration projects for the Long Beach branch, on which 20,000 customers travel on an average weekday.

The MTA has added nine LIRR Sandy restoration projects to its 2010-2014 Capital Programs — a total commitment of $265 million — and the plans for Long Beach, totaling $120 million, represent a major part of that effort.

Long Beach branch substation replacement: $56.5 million